‘Naval Shaurya Museum’ in Lucknow will be ready soon: Yogi

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Thursday said the ‘Naval Shaurya Museum’ will serve as a living symbol of the Indian Navy’s indomitable valour and India’s maritime capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region.

During a review meeting of the Culture Department, the department presented the proposed project in the state capital. Reviewing the presentation of the “Naval Shaurya Museum,” he directed its speedy construction. The Chief Minister stated that the sea has been the churning ground of Indian civilisation, and the Indian Navy is the modern expression of that glorious tradition. This museum in Lucknow will serve as a medium to disseminate that tradition to the public.

Advertisement

The meeting was informed that the museum would be designed in the abstract form of a ship. Ship railings, porthole-like windows, naval architecture, and maritime symbols are planned to give it a distinctive identity. The complex will include an interpretation centre, a central deck, an open-air memorial, thematic walkways, exhibition galleries, fountains, and a light-and-sound arena. The design has been energy-sensitive, utilising natural light, ventilation, and green construction techniques.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the museum should not only be a visual treat but also an experience centre, where visitors can experience history. He directed that the displays utilise digital, interactive, and immersive technologies, allowing visitors to experience naval operations, warfare, and technological advancements firsthand. He directed that the necessary information about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj be made available at the Naval Museum.

The presentation stated that the project is being developed in two major segments: the “INS Gomati Shaurya Smarak” (Sacred Memorial) and the “Naval Shaurya Vatika.” It was explained that the “INS Gomati (F-21)” is an indigenous Godavari-class missile frigate that served the Indian Navy for 34 years and participated in operations such as “Operation Cactus” and “Operation Parakram.” It will be preserved and displayed within the museum complex so that citizens and youth can witness its valorous story firsthand.

The Chief Minister described the “Naval Shaurya Vatika” as a special attraction of the project and directed its early completion. A TU-142 aircraft, which served in the Navy’s maritime surveillance and disaster relief operations for 29 years, is being installed in this garden. An exhibition of the Sea King SK-42B helicopter is also proposed. The Chief Minister stated that this garden will serve as a live experience center connecting youth with modern naval operations and technology.

The meeting was informed that the museum complex will feature a 7D theatre, an aircraft carrier landing simulator, a warship simulator, a submerged Dwarka model, a digital water screen show, a marine life aquarium, and interactive activities such as “Dress Like Your Heroes.” Additionally, interactive galleries related to the Navy’s gallantry awards, historical operations, and indigenous defense innovations will also be developed. A committee chaired by the Director General of Tourism, comprising representatives from the Maritime Heritage Society, the UP Projects Corporation, and naval experts, has been formed to oversee the project.

The Chief Minister stated that this project will rekindle the pride of the maritime state in Uttar Pradesh, which was once a cultural link between India’s coastal trade and the Indian Ocean. He said, “This museum in Lucknow will symbolise not only the valour of the Indian Navy but also the maritime spirit of India. It will give Uttar Pradesh a new, proud identity on the national tourism map.”