T’puram: A scale model of INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, was dedicated to the state capital at Museum Junction on Monday by governor Rajendra Arlekar in the presence of Vice-Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command.The installation is part of an Indian Navy initiative to display replicas of the country’s first indigenous aircraft carrier in cities across India. The model is expected to serve as a symbol of India’s maritime strength and growing capabilities in indigenous warship design and construction.Former chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar (retd), mayor V V Rajesh, and senior officials from Army, Air Force, Navy, coast guard and the state govt attended the dedication ceremony. Naval veterans and other dignitaries were also present.The model, built to a scale of 1:24, reproduces the distinctive features and configuration of the aircraft carrier, offering visitors a closer look at the engineering behind one of India’s most significant naval assets.INS Vikrant was commissioned into the Indian Navy on Sep 2, 2022, by PM Narendra Modi. Built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd in Kochi, it is India’s first indigenously designed and constructed aircraft carrier and the largest warship built in the country.The vessel marks a major milestone in India’s efforts to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing under the Athmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Its construction involved the development of advanced shipbuilding capabilities and complex naval engineering systems.The Navy said the scale model was intended to highlight India’s maritime heritage and the longstanding association between the Navy and Keralam. It is also expected to inspire younger generations to pursue careers in science, technology and engineering, while raising awareness about India’s indigenous defence capabilities.The installation adds a naval-themed landmark to the city and brings the achievements of India’s shipbuilding industry closer to the public.
