New Delhi, PTI
Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar recently recognized INS Sharda with an ‘On-the-spot Unit Citation’ for its effective anti-piracy efforts at sea, officials revealed.
The ship played a crucial role in ensuring the safe release of 19 crew members held hostage by pirates aboard the Iranian fishing vessel Omari off Somalia’s east coast. During his visit to Southern Naval Command, Kochi, Admiral Kumar presented the award to INS Sharda, praising its swift and successful anti-piracy operations. The ship, upon receiving surveillance reports, intercepted the hijacked vessel and maintained covert surveillance until dawn. With its assertive stance, INS Sharda compelled the pirates to release the crew and the vessel unharmed.
This proactive response led to the rescue of the hijacked fishing vessel and its crew, underscoring the Indian Navy’s commitment to maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region. Admiral Kumar lauded INS Sharda’s professionalism and swift action, emphasizing the Indian Navy’s reputation as a trusted security partner in the area.
