Updated On: 04 December, 2024 10:44 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
This year's event marked the 53rd anniversary of the Indian Navy's decisive role in the 1971 Indo-Pak war

PIC/SATEJ SHINDE
A spectacular Beating Retreat and Tattoo Ceremony was held at the iconic Gateway of India to commemorate Navy Day 2024. Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan was the Chief Guest at the event.
This year's event marked the 53rd anniversary of the Indian Navy's decisive role in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. On December 3, 1971, Pakistan launched a pre-emptive airstrike against Indian air bases. In a swift response, the 22nd Missile Vessel Squadron was tasked with an offensive operation, deploying three missile boats — Nirghat, Veer and Nipat — towards Karachi under Operation Trident and Operation Python. On the night of December 4, 1971, these vessels carried out a successful attack, sinking Pakistani warships and destroying critical assets, including the Kiamari oil fields. This victory not only highlighted the strategic prowess of the Indian Navy but also secured a monumental triumph for the Indian Armed Forces.