Nausena Shaurya Vatika to inspire youth, honour naval legacy: CM

Lucknow: Nausena Shaurya Vatika in Lucknow will serve as a symbol of India’s military heritage and inspire young people to develop respect for the armed forces and contribute to nation-building, chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday said after inaugurating the park developed for Rs 19 crore by state govt with the help of Indian Navy.Addressing the gathering after the inauguration of naval-themed memorial and museum, Yogi said it would showcase India’s traditions, heritage, and security capabilities.“Visitors to Lucknow can now learn about the country’s military achievements and feel a sense of pride in India’s rich legacy,” he said.Yogi highlighted that INS Gomti, which served the Indian Navy for many years safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests, was decommissioned in 2022 and has now been repurposed at the banks of the Gomti in Lucknow.“The initiative reflects visionary thinking and will provide valuable information about the Indian Navy and the challenges faced by military personnel under difficult conditions,” said the CM.“The museum would motivate young people to face challenges in their own lives while learning about the sacrifices and dedication of India’s soldiers,” he added.Linking the project to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “Developed India,” Yogi recalled the PM’s call for citizens to adopt the ‘Panch Pran’, or five national pledges.Among them, he said, is the need to maintain respect for the armed forces and uniformed services. “Indian soldiers protect the nation in extreme weather conditions, whether in freezing temperatures along the borders, scorching deserts, or challenging maritime environments, enabling citizens to live peacefully and contribute to the country’s development,” he said.Yogi asserted that the development could progress effectively only in a secure environment. Drawing a comparison with the period before 2017, he said: “Uttar Pradesh faced frequent disturbances and criminal activity that discouraged investment and hindered development. Improved security has helped create a favourable atmosphere for growth.”Yogi thanked defence minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, and their teams for completing the project within the stipulated timeline.“The museum would offer visitors an opportunity to understand the courage, valour, and achievements of the Indian Navy” the CM said, who also suggested displaying decommissioned military tanks and equipment at important intersections across the state to promote awareness about the armed forces and inspire patriotism among citizens.