Central Idea
- On Navy Day, December 4, PM Modi highlighted Chhatrapati Shivaji’s understanding of naval power and announced the incorporation of his emblem on naval officers’ epaulettes.
Indian Navy’s Acknowledgment of Maratha Heritage
- Training Establishment: The Indian Navy’s training facility in Lonavla is named INS Shivaji.
- Administrative Hub: The Western Naval Command’s logistics and administrative center in Mumbai is named INS Angre, after Kanhoji Angre, a prominent Maratha naval commander.
- New Naval Ensign: The Indian Navy’s new Ensign, unveiled in 2022, features the octagonal design of Shivaji’s seal, symbolizing his maritime vision.
About Maratha Navy
| Details | |
| Foundation and Expansion | – Founder: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
– First Vessel: Built around 1654 near Kalyan – Strategic Naval Bases: Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, Khanderi, Colaba – Philosophy: Principle of ‘Jalameva yasya, balameva tasya’ (‘He who rules the seas is all powerful’). |
| Composition and Command | – Personnel: Native Konkani sailors and mercenaries
– Notable Commanders: Shivaji Maharaj, Admiral Kanhoji Angre |
| Naval Fleet and Technology | – Ship Types: ‘Gurab’ (large, three-masted) and ‘Galbat’ (smaller, faster), Tarande , Shibad, Pal, Taru, Tirkiti and Machchava.
– Artillery and Arms: Equipped with various cannons, known for innovative naval tactics |
| Tactics and Strategies | – Coastal Dominance: Excelling in coastal defense
– Guerrilla Tactics: Using hit-and-run tactics, exploiting shallow creeks and bays |
| Major Conflicts and Battles | – Against European Powers: Engagements with the British and Portuguese
– Conflict with the Siddis: Ongoing conflicts with the Siddis of Janjira |
| Decline and Legacy | – Reasons for Decline: Internal strife, technological advancements by Europeans, rise of British naval power
– Legacy: Remembered for resisting colonial powers, protecting the western coast of India |
