Lucknow, May 30: In a significant development for India’s defense pride and indigenous capabilities, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, has been gifted a new identity. On Saturday, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi inaugurated the ‘Navy Valor Park,’ constructed at a cost of ₹19 crore.
Located along the banks of the Gomti River, this unique park features the retired warship INS Gomati, restored to its original form. It aims to inspire youth towards patriotism, military valor, and national security. During the event, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that national security is the foremost prerequisite for development.
He highlighted that before 2017, Uttar Pradesh faced insecurity, riots, curfews, and mafia rule, which hindered investment and growth opportunities. Today, due to a secure environment, the state is rapidly progressing towards becoming one of the largest economies in the country. The Chief Minister stated that when soldiers perform their duties with dedication at the borders, it is the responsibility of citizens to respect the armed forces and uniformed personnel. This mindset led to the conceptualization of the Navy Museum and Valor Park in Lucknow, which has now come to fruition.
He asserted that only a country that is strong and vigilant about its security can earn respect for peace in the world. If any nation or power poses a threat to India’s sovereignty and security, it must be responded to in its own language, not just through advice.
Referencing Prime Minister’s ‘Panch Pran’ for achieving a developed India, the Chief Minister urged every citizen to participate in this journey of nation-building. He noted that the Valor Park will play a crucial role in enhancing awareness about the respect for the armed forces and national security. Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya mentioned the recent ‘Operation Sindoor’ and India’s strategic capabilities, highlighting the power of the BrahMos missile that the world has witnessed.
He suggested that special exhibitions of the Navy should be held at events like the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela, allowing visitors from across the country and the globe to closely understand the strength of the Indian Navy. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak remarked that Lucknow has witnessed valor and sacrifice from the 1857 revolution to the Kargil heroes, and the Navy Valor Park will add a new chapter to the capital’s glorious heritage.
Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi noted that although Uttar Pradesh is not a coastal state, its rivers ultimately connect to the sea. The warship INS Gomati, named after the Gomti River, served the nation for 34 years, and its glorious history will inspire future generations in Lucknow. He added that the park will also provide information about various naval platforms, defense technology, the UP Defense Corridor, and the BrahMos manufacturing project, which will enhance youth interest in military services.
It is noteworthy that the Navy Valor Park features the retired warship INS Gomati, which will be the main attraction. This warship was retired from service on May 28, 2022, and includes an anchor, AK-726 medium-range gun, CET-53M submarine barrier, JIF-101 launcher with RJ, capstan drum, main mast, and the ship’s propeller.
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