INS Vela Visits Colombo: Strengthening India-Sri Lanka Maritime Ties
The Indian Navy’s Kalvari Class Submarine, INS Vela, made a significant port call at Colombo, Sri Lanka, on November 10. This visit is part of its deployment and was ceremonially received by the Defence Advisor in Colombo.
Strengthening Maritime Bonds
The visit aligns with India’s SAGAR initiative, which stands for Security and Growth for All in the Region. This initiative emphasizes collective regional security and growth, highlighting the importance of friendship, cooperation, and interoperability between India and Sri Lanka.
Details of the Visit
INS Vela, a 67.5-meter-long submarine with a crew of 53, is commanded by Commander Kapil Kumar. During its stay, the crew will engage in activities organized by the Sri Lanka Navy to enhance camaraderie between the two navies. Additionally, Sri Lankan Navy personnel will visit the submarine for an awareness program on its operational features.
The crew members of INS Vela will also have the opportunity to explore some of Sri Lanka’s tourist attractions. The submarine is scheduled to depart Colombo on November 13.
Historical Ties
India and Sri Lanka share a rich history of over 2,500 years, marked by intellectual, cultural, religious, and linguistic interactions. The relationship between the two countries continues to grow, with cooperation in trade, investment, development, education, culture, and defense.
Doubts Revealed
INS Vela -: INS Vela is a submarine that belongs to the Indian Navy. It is part of the Kalvari Class, which is a type of submarine used by India for defense and security in the sea.
Colombo -: Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, which is an island country located to the south of India. It is a major city where important events and visits like this one take place.
Kalvari Class Submarine -: Kalvari Class Submarine is a type of submarine used by the Indian Navy. These submarines are designed to be very quiet and are used for various missions under the sea.
SAGAR initiative -: SAGAR stands for ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region.’ It is an initiative by India to promote peace, security, and cooperation in the Indian Ocean region, which includes countries like Sri Lanka.
Maritime ties -: Maritime ties refer to the relationship and cooperation between countries in matters related to the sea. This includes activities like naval visits, joint exercises, and sharing knowledge about sea operations.
Commander Kapil Kumar -: Commander Kapil Kumar is the officer in charge of INS Vela. He is responsible for leading the submarine and its crew during missions and visits like the one to Colombo.