Indian Navy Hands Over Ex INS Guldar for Underwater Museum Project

Current Affairs National

Posted by newadmin on 2025-02-26 08:42:56 |

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 6

---

The Indian Navy has transferred Ex INS Guldar, a decommissioned Landing Ship Tank (Medium), to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation Limited (MTDC). This initiative represents a significant step in converting a retired naval vessel into an underwater museum and artificial reef, a first-of-its-kind project in India. The handover took place in Karwar, with MTDC assuming responsibility for the ship in its current condition. This project is expected to promote marine conservation while creating new opportunities for local communities.

Ex INS Guldar was built in Poland and commissioned into the Indian Navy on December 30, 1985. Initially serving in the Eastern Naval Command until 1995, the ship was later deployed in the Andaman and Nicobar Command until its decommissioning on January 12, 2024. Over its 39 years of service, the vessel played a key role in various naval operations, including Op Aman and Op Pawan, and completed over 490 successful beaching operations.

The transformation of Ex INS Guldar into an artificial reef is expected to significantly contribute to marine conservation efforts. Scuttling decommissioned ships creates structures that support diverse marine life by providing shelter and fostering thriving ecosystems. Beyond its environmental impact, the project is anticipated to generate economic benefits by promoting underwater tourism, which will create livelihood opportunities for coastal communities.

The initiative will also serve as a training site for Indian Navy divers, enhancing their operational capabilities while supporting marine tourism. The collaboration with MTDC is expected to strengthen the region’s position as a hub for marine exploration and conservation.

India has previously converted several naval vessels into museums, preserving the country’s rich maritime heritage. The INS Kursura in Vishakhapatnam operates as an underwater museum, while INS Vikrant was initially transformed into a museum before its recommissioning in 2022. Similarly, INS Cuddalore has been repurposed as an underwater museum, contributing to efforts to educate the public about India’s naval history and marine biodiversity.

Go!