Parrikar asks shipyards to compress warship delivery schedules

New Delhi, May 26 (ANI): Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Tuesday said shipyards, both public and private, must compress the delivery schedules of warships and other platforms both for the Navy and the Coast Guard. Addressing the Naval Commanders' Conference here today, Parrikar said in the last one year, the modernisation plan of the Navy has gained significant momentum with induction of several new platforms. He expressed satisfaction with the impetus being imparted towards indigenous development of naval capabilities. Parrikar said each commissioning of a ship or launch of a submarine built in India is a proud moment for everyone and the nation as a whole. He also said all 48 ships and submarines presently on order for the Navy are being constructed in Indian shipyards, which is in keeping with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' vision. The defence minister complimented the naval personnel for continuing to perform their duties tirelessly and selflessly to protect and promote the maritime interests of the nation. Parrikar expressed appreciation on the stellar role played by the Indian Navy in evacuating citizens of nearly 35 countries in the extremely dangerous and war-like conditions during 'Operation Rahat' in strife-torn Yemen. He said the Indian Navy's evacuation efforts were appreciated and acknowledged both by the nation as well as the international community. Parrikar also acknowledged the Indian Navy's prompt response during 'Operation Neer', where Indian Naval ships provided potable water to Maldives in December last year and demonstrated the nation's commitment and engagement with its maritime neighbours. Speaking on the Human Resources issues, the Defence Minister expressed his special concern for the men in uniform and said that improvements in service conditions, welfare and quality of life are his top priority. He complimented the Navy's sustained efforts in enhancing manpower induction and improving the quality of life and service conditions of sailors and officers. Parrikar highlighted the proactive engagement of the Indian Navy with the DRDO, DPSUs and other private and public sector partners which have resulted in a high degree of indigenisation and transfer-of-technology. He complimented the Navy for bringing out a comprehensive twenty year 'Science and Technology' roadmap to guide and assist the DRDO in developing niche technologies for the future. The four-day Naval Commanders' Conference will conclude on May 28. (ANI)