75th Independence Day celebrated at INS Shivaji, Lonavala

INS Shivaji, the premier technical training establishment of the Indian Navy located at Lonavala celebrated the 75th Independence Day. A wreath laying ceremony was held on the occasion wherein Commodore Arvind Rawal, Commanding Officer, INS Shivaji and Station Commander, Lonavala placed a floral wreath at the war memorial and paid homage to the sea warriors and freedom fighters who had made the supreme sacrifice in the defence of the nation. A ceremonial parade was also held at the station wherein all Service personnel and defence civilians commended by the CNS and FOCINC, SNC were honoured by the Station Commander. Proficiency certificates and cash awards were also presented to Service and civilian personnel of the establishment during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav Barakhana. The Commanding Officer conveyed good wishes and greetings to all personnel and their families. A tree plantation drive was also organised at the station wherein 75 saplings were planted in DSC lines. Further, NWWA, Station Lonavala conducted various events on the momentous occasion of 75th Independence Day. A donation drive for the residents of labour camps was conducted with the help of families of the station. Cultural events were organised by the tiny tots of Balwadi, a school for the children of the underprivileged. The children showcased their talent and boosted up the sense of patriotism amongst the audience. Distribution of grocery and school kits to underprivileged children was also undertaken. A cycle rally was also organised from INS Shivaji to Lohagad Fort and back on 14 August 2021. The cycle rally was dedicated to the Naval personnel and their families who had not only been instrumental in bringing India thus far in its evolutionary journey, but also hold within them the power and potential to enable the country's vision of activating India 2.0, fuelled by spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat. The event was flagged off by the Station Commander and was organised with the motto Fit India and 'It's Always a Good Day to Ride'. The cycle rally also aimed at promoting health and physical fitness amongst Naval personnel and families.