Port Blair, Jan 14: The Defence Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman visited Campbell Bay today and reviewed the operational readiness of the Command. She witnessed all four components working jointly in unison during an amphibious demonstration. The exercise, conducted near Campbell Bay included 10 ships, 6 aircrafts and 700 troops of the Command. The Marine Commando (MARCO) unit of Indian Navy and specialist platoon (GHATAK) of Indian Army displayed their operational capabilities by carrying out helocasting, and beach assault.

The minister also visited the southernmost part of India, Indira Point.  Later, on her arrival at Port Blair, the Defence Minister was given a demonstration on jungle survival skills at Military Station, Birchgunj. Thereafter, she inaugurated the phase II of Married Accommodation Project (MAP) that includes 868 dwelling units for the troops of Andaman Nicobar Command. Interacting with the troops at Port Blair, the Minister wished them a very happy Lohri, Makar Sankranti and Pongal.

Smt Nirmala Sitharaman is on a two day visit to Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC). On arrival at INS Utkrosh, Port Blair yesterday, she was received by Vice Admiral Bimal Verma, AVSM, ADC, Commander in Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN). Later at the ANC Head-Quarters, the minister was given a comprehensive briefing and update on thrust areas and achievements of the Command. 

During her earlier visit in Oct 2017, the Hon’ble minister had celebrated Diwali with the troops.