Western Fleet bids farewell to Admiral Prakash

Mumbai, Oct 6 (UNI) Outgoing Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Admiral, Arun Prakash today reiterated that ''expansion&modernisation'' of the Navy will go ahead as per plans to transform the force into a strong maritime Blue Water Navy by 2015.

Addressing officers of the Western Naval Command at Sasson docks, he said the Indian Ocean was an ''asset,'' having large deposits of oil and gas and offered large business opportunities.

Hence, its protection was vital for the country.

''However, in the last few years, threats such as terrorrism, piracy and smuggling have increased on the sea front, which should be dealt strongly with the assistance of the Coast Guard other security agencies,'' the CNS, who will retire by the end of this month added.

He further said the government was fully aware of its commitments and needs of the Navy. As a result, efforts were being made to fulfill and upgrade the force into a vital force of the subcontinent.

At the same time, Admiral Prakash said the Indian Navy would function as a ''peace time force'' and will not hesitate to show its strength in the event of any challenge thrown upon the nation.

Earlier, in the morning, the CNS inspected the Western Fleet of the Indian Navy, which staged a ceremonial parade in his honour.

Admiral Prakash served the force for 42 years and had actively partcipated in the 1971 war with Pakistan where he was awarded a gallantry medal.

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