The Indian Navy on Sunday (May 17) inaugurated its premier Naval Sailing Node at Upper Lake, also known as Bhojtal, in Bhopal, marking a major step towards strengthening watermanship training and promoting competitive water sports in India.
The ceremony was chaired by Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, in the presence of senior officials from the defence forces and civil administration, along with NCC cadets and students.
To commemorate the occasion, more than 30 naval personnel from INWTC Visakhapatnam and the Navy’s water sports teams presented a spectacular Sail Parade along with kayaking, canoeing, and rowing demonstrations at the venue.
The Ministry of Defence said watermanship training has always been an integral part of the training for naval personnel. It helps build camaraderie and a competitive spirit among personnel operating in the maritime domain.
Currently 17 out of the 34 members of the Navy sailing team belong to Madhya Pradesh, highlighting the state’s growing contribution to sailing and water sports.
A Naval Sailing Node is a dedicated facility established by the Indian Navy for training personnel in sailing and other water sports activities, while also promoting adventure sports, teamwork, and competitive excellence among naval personnel and youth.
The newly developed state-of-the-art Naval Sailing Node will serve as a key training hub for the Indian Navy Sailing Team, Navy Rowing, Canoeing and Kayaking teams, along with NCC cadets.
“The facility aims to motivate more youth of Madhya Pradesh to embrace competitive water sports and inspire them to join the Defence Force,” the Ministry of Defence said.