INS Gharial: A Key Player in Humanitarian Operations

INS Gharial and the Indian Navy's Humanitarian Mission

The Indian Navy has recently deployed the INS Gharial along with three other vessels as part of Operation Sagar Bandhu. This operation aims to provide humanitarian assistance and relief to regions in Sri Lanka affected by severe cyclones.

About INS Gharial

INS Gharial (L23) is a Magar-class amphibious warfare vessel belonging to the Indian Navy. It is recognized as the second indigenously built Landing Ship Tank (Large), designed to support various naval operations.

Constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers, INS Gharial is one of the largest vessels in the Indian Navy. Commissioned on February 14, 1997, it operates within the Eastern Fleet, under the Eastern Naval Command.

Capabilities of INS Gharial

INS Gharial boasts impressive capabilities, including:

• Carrying two helicopters—one stationed in the hangar and another on the deck.
• Transporting 10 Vijayanta tanks in its underbelly.
• Hosting four Landing Craft Assault (LCA) slung above.

In addition to its transport capabilities, INS Gharial is equipped with various armaments, including guns and rocket launchers. These weapons are instrumental in "softening up" hostile beaches prior to troop landings, ensuring a secure entry for tanks and assault forces.

Operation Sagar Bandhu: A Humanitarian Initiative

Operation Sagar Bandhu represents a significant commitment by the Indian Navy to assist neighboring countries during times of crisis. The deployment of INS Gharial and other vessels exemplifies India's dedication to regional stability and humanitarian support.

Through this operation, the Indian Navy aims not only to provide immediate relief but also to strengthen diplomatic ties with Sri Lanka and demonstrate its capability in disaster response scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Operation Sagar Bandhu?
Answer: Operation Sagar Bandhu is an initiative by the Indian Navy aimed at providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to countries affected by natural calamities, such as cyclones, particularly in the Indian Ocean region.

Q2. What type of vessel is INS Gharial?
Answer: INS Gharial is a Magar-class amphibious warfare vessel, specifically designed for transporting troops and equipment during naval operations and humanitarian missions.

Q3. When was INS Gharial commissioned?
Answer: INS Gharial was commissioned into the Indian Navy on February 14, 1997, and has since been an integral part of the Eastern Fleet.

Q4. What are the primary capabilities of INS Gharial?
Answer: INS Gharial can carry helicopters, transport tanks, and launch landing craft, making it versatile for both combat and humanitarian operations.

Q5. How does INS Gharial aid in humanitarian missions?
Answer: INS Gharial assists in humanitarian missions by delivering supplies, transporting relief personnel, and facilitating recovery efforts in disaster-stricken areas.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What class of vessel is INS Gharial?
A) Magar-class
B) Vikrant-class
C) Shivalik-class
D) Delhi-class
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: When was INS Gharial commissioned?
A) 1995
B) 1997
C) 1999
D) 2001
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What operation is INS Gharial currently involved in?
A) Operation Samudra Setu
B) Operation Sagar Bandhu
C) Operation Maitri
D) Operation Coastal Security
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which type of tanks can INS Gharial transport?
A) Arjun tanks
B) Vijayanta tanks
C) T-90 tanks
D) Leopard tanks
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Which country is receiving aid from INS Gharial?
A) Maldives
B) Sri Lanka
C) Bangladesh
D) Myanmar
Correct Answer: B