The Indian Navy, with its professionalism, technical prowess, worldwide arena of operations and human approach is not only ready to defend the nation's maritime interests in peace and war, but also ensures an environment of peace and tranquility in the Indian Ocean region by continuously "Reaching out to our Maritime Neighbours". The stellar role of Indian Navy has helped in a renewed view of India among the  Maritime Neighbours.

This was amply demonstrated on 26th December, 2004. In the midst of the rapidly snowballing tsunami disaster on our own east coast and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Indian Navy ships sailed immediately to render aid to the Maldives, Sri Lanka and Indonesia. Over 31 ships, 20 Helicopters, 4 Dornier aircraft and more than 5500 personnel were deployed to provide relief, which included medicines, ration, provisions and packed drinking water to the affected people.

In May 2006, the Indian Navy rose to the occasion to provide Indian relief supplies to the victims of the earthquake that struck Indonesia. Civilian evacuation of stranded Indian, Nepalese, Sri Lankan and Lebanese national from war-torn Lebanon by the Indian Navy was another dimension of showcasing the promptness and the resolve of the Government of India in coming to the aid of Indians even in far-flung places outside the country. The Indian Navy carried out a hydrographic survey off the coast of Mauritius in Mar/Apr 2007. The prompt and thorough action by the Indian Navy evoked responses of gratitude towards the Government of India and faith in humanity from the affected maritime neighbours.

Indian Navy won world wide acclamation for its swift and stunning act of rescue of Saudi & Indian Ships from the clutches of Somalian Pirates in high seas in November, 2008. The spontaneous response of Indian Navy on hearing a SOS message resulted in rescue of these ships and the crew. This has further enhanced the peace time role of its commitment towards the safety of maritime operations. In fact the Indian Navy has set up an example for others to emulate. Indian Navy has also sent a strong message to the growing menace of terror in the seas in the form of seas pirates.

Today we look at the seas, not just as vast stretches of water that separate continents, but as highways the join distant lands with  bonds of friendship. While the Indian Navy retains its sharp combat edge and operational capability, the service is often privileged to provide support and assistance to our maritime neighbours, thereby showcasing the warmth and resolve of India to be of assistance when needed.

what makes Indian Navy one of the most distinguished service is its humane approach, ever willing to help the maritime neighbours expeditiously whenever the forces of nature so demand. In doing so the Indian Navy draws upon its vast experience of sea faring, braving challenging situations and choppy seas to assist in whatever measure it can since it understands the ways of the seas and the sea breeze pulsates through its veins.

Ready to defend the nation's maritime interests in peace and in war, the Indian Navy will ensure an environment of peace and tranquility in the Indian Ocean Region and continue "Reaching out to our Maritime Neighbours".

India Post is proud to issue a stamp on "Reaching out to our Maritime Neighbours".

Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India