LUCKNOW: Defence minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Nausena Shaurya Vatika in Lucknow, describing it as a “living inspiration site” that will connect future generations with the courage, sacrifice and service of the Indian Navy.Addressing the gathering, Singh said the park would not merely be a tourist attraction but a symbol of national pride and military honour. He said Lucknow, known for its culture and heritage, was now also emerging as a centre of patriotism and defence consciousness.Explaining why a naval-themed park had been built in a city located far from the sea, Singh said, “Lucknow shared a deep bond with the Navy through INS Gomti, a warship commissioned in 1988 and named after the Gomti river, the lifeline of the city.”He said the ship’s crest carried Lucknow’s historic Chhattar Manzil, making the connection between the city and the Indian Navy both emotional and symbolic.Singh said, “India’s security was not limited to land borders. The Indian Ocean was central to the country’s economy, trade and energy security. The sailors who protect India’s sea routes come from every village, town and city, and the Navy’s strength comes from the resolve of every citizen, whether living on the coast or in inland cities such as Lucknow.”“The vatika features authentic military equipment once used on INS Gomti, including missile launchers, torpedo tubes, radars and gun mountings. It also displays naval surveillance aircraft, multi-role helicopters and torpedoes,” said Singh while urging people to visit the site, especially with children.The defence minister said the park would be further enhanced and announced plans to bring a large submarine to the complex so visitors could experience its internal systems. He assured full cooperation from the Ministry of Defence to develop the site as a major destination for tourists from India and abroad.
