INDIA/MAURITIUS: The ships of the First Training Squadron (1TS) (INS Tir, INS Sujata, and ICGS Sarathi) visited Port Louis, Mauritius, from March 11 to March 11 as part of a goodwill mission during which the naval personnel from both sides interacted with each other.
The ships took part in the 55th Mauritius National Day on March 12, wherein the ships were dressed overall and open for visitors. More than 1,000 visitors were familiarized with various equipment and training facilities onboard. A joint performance of the Indian Navy Band and the Mauritius Police Force Band was held to commemorate the strong bond between the two countries.
The ships undertook professional interactions, training exchanges, and friendly sporting fixtures with the Mauritian Coast Guard. The MNCG trainees visiting the ship were provided an insight into various aspects of training, which included watchkeeping, electrical, engineering, aviation, firefighting, and damage control.
The Indian trainees visited the Mauritian Maritime Air Squadron, Police HQ Squadron, and Coast Guard Training School.
A reception was hosted onboard INS Tir with the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Pravind Jugnauth, as the Chief Guest. During his address on the occasion, he acknowledged the efforts of the Indian Navy, for the assistance provided during joint operations toward the removal of pollutants from a grounded vessel off St. Brandon Island.
In line with the Indian Navy’s promise to be the preferred security partner, 1TS did a passage exercise (PASSEX) with MCGS Baracuda and joint EEZ surveillance.
The main goal of the 1TS is to teach Naval and Coast Guard trainees how to work on the water. This is done over 24 weeks. All the trainees are trained in seamanship, navigation, ship handling, boat work, technical aspects, etc., whilst being exposed to the rigours of life at sea, to earn their “sea legs”.
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