Union Defence Minister Inaugurates ‘Naval Shaurya Vatika’ in Lucknow

Union Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath jointly inaugurated the ‘Naval Shaurya Vatika’ in Lucknow on May 30, 2026.

Constructed over an area of ​​more than two acres at a cost of ₹19 crore, this open-air display museum pays tribute to the spirit, valor, and prowess of the Indian Navy.

It features exhibits of artifacts and weapon systems from INS Gomti, which was decommissioned on May 29, 2022, after 34 years of service.

Speaking on the occasion, the Defence Minister described the Naval Shaurya Vatika not merely as a tourist destination, but as a symbol of inspiration that will remind future generations of the true cost of freedom and security.

He further added that this park will serve as a constant reminder of the nation's security and safety, which has been safeguarded through the bravery and sacrifices of our courageous soldiers.

Shri Rajnath Singh lauded the Indian Navy for its strong presence at sea and its operational readiness, emphasizing that amidst current geopolitical turbulence, the key to global peace and prosperity lies in securing maritime routes.

Through initiatives such as ‘Make-in-India’, ‘Defence Industrial Corridors’, ‘Innovations for Defence Excellence’ (iDEX), and ‘Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX’ (ADITI), we are indigenously manufacturing state-of-the-art weaponry and exporting it to several friendly nations.

Naval Shaurya Vatika Exhibits:

AK 726 (a naval gun mounted on warships), ZIF 101 launchers for surface-to-air missiles, and surface-to-surface anti-ship missiles. Surface-to-air missiles, the ship's radar, torpedo launchers, anchors, masts, and other artifacts from INS Gomati have been placed on display in this park.

It also features a walk-through museum housed within a TU 142M—a long-range maritime patrol aircraft that is no longer in active service.

Constructed as part of the second phase of the Naval Gallantry Museum project, this park is also equipped with various amenities for visitors, such as a food court, a souvenir shop, and modern lighting and sound systems.

INS Gomati

INS Gomati was named after the vibrant Gomati River and was commissioned at Mazagon Dock Limited on April 16, 1988, by the then-Defense Minister.

The third vessel of the Godavari-class guided-missile frigates, INS Gomati, was also the oldest warship of the Western Fleet at the time of its decommissioning.

During its tenure, it participated in 'Operation Cactus,' 'Operation Parakram,' and 'Operation Rainbow,' as well as numerous bilateral and multinational naval exercises.

For its exceptional spirit and outstanding contributions to national maritime security, it was twice awarded the prestigious 'Unit Citation'—once in 2007–08 and again in 2019–20.