The Indian Navy recently acquired the third stealth destroyer of Project 15B, named Imphal. This acquisition marks a significant step in India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its naval fleet. The Project is a successor to the Kolkata class (Project 15A) destroyers that were commissioned over the past decade.
Specifications and Features of the Imphal Destroyer
The Imphal destroyer comes furnished with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors such as surface-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles, and torpedoes. The destroyer operates on a Combined Gas and Gas propulsion set, which includes four gas turbines. This allows the vessel to reach speeds exceeding 30 knots (56 km/h).
Imphal is the third in a series of four Project 15B destroyers being constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) as part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The destroyer is equipped with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, which provides the Indian Navy with a highly capable and versatile weapon system.
Dhordo Receives Best Tourism Village Award
Dhordo, a village in Gujarat, has been honored with the coveted title of Best Tourism Village by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). The award was presented at the Best Tourism Village – 2023 award ceremony conducted by the UNWTO in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
This honor came as a result of the village’s rich cultural heritage, unique handicrafts, and the well-known Rann Utsav. The UNWTO gives the title of “Best Tourism Village” to villages that demonstrate attributes such as promoting sustainable tourism, preserving local culture and heritage, offering a safe environment for tourists, and providing unique experiences.
Cyclone Tej Intensifies Over Arabian Sea
Cyclone Tej, originating over the Arabian Sea, has transformed into an extremely severe cyclonic storm. Projections show a northwestward path with expected landfall near Al Ghaidah in Yemen. The term ‘Tej,’ meaning ‘speed’ in Hindi, was chosen by India.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for eight districts in Kerala, cautioning residents of heavy rains. Established in 1875, the IMD is a branch of the Ministry of Earth Sciences. The department utilizes color-coded weather warnings to alert citizens of severe or hazardous weather conditions that hold the potential to cause significant harm or disruption.
Chinese and Philippine Vessels in Collision Near Spratly Islands
Tensions have risen in the South China Sea following two recent collisions between Chinese and Philippine vessels during a resupply mission near the Second Thomas Shoal, located in the disputed Spratly Islands. Both nations have put forth accusations in the aftermath of these events.
