Naval Detachment Inaugurated at Androth Island of Lakshadweep

A Naval Detachment (NAVDET) was on 26 April 2016 inaugurated at the Androth Island of Lakshadweep Vice Admiral Girish Luthra, AVSM, VSM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command.
The Officer-In-Charge of the Detachment is Lt Cdr Angom B Singh who will function under the Naval Officer-in-Charge (Lakshadweep and Minicoy Island). 

• The setting up of this naval detachment will extend Indian naval presence at Androth Island.
• It will provide communication network connectivity with mainland.
• It will enable Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOC) monitoring
• It will function as an Observance and reporting organisation, besides radar surveillance. 

The setting up of a Naval Detachment at Androth Island will enhance the Navy’s reach and surveillance, and contribute significantly to strengthen maritime security and stability. Lakshadweep and Mnicoy Islands occupy a strategic location in the Arabian Sea. A number of shipping lanes pass close to these islands. A number of infrastructure facilities at naval units located on Kavaratti, Minicoy, Agatti and Androth islands are also being progressively upgraded.The Naval Detachment at Kavaratti was commissioned as a naval establishment, INS Dweeprakshak in 2012. Suitable ships are also being based at the Islands to provide enhanced surveillance and immediate response capability.