The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Goa): The Defence Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh, is scheduled to inaugurate the ‘Chola’, a new state-of-the-art Admin-cum-Training building at the Naval War College in Goa on March 5, 2024. This modern facility is named in honor of the great maritime empire of the Chola dynasty, symbolizing India’s rich naval history and its aspiration towards becoming a leading maritime power.
Originally founded as the College of Naval Warfare at INS Karanja in 1988, this institution was established to offer advanced military education to the middle and senior officers of the Indian Navy. It was renamed the Naval War College in 2010 and relocated to Goa in 2011. The college aims to be the premier institution for higher military education, preparing armed forces officers for strategic and operational leadership roles. It hosts the Maritime Security Course, promoting collaboration among military officers from the Indian Ocean Region to achieve an open, secure, and inclusive maritime environment, aligning with the Prime Minister’s ‘SAGAR’ vision. Additionally, the college is recognized as the Indian Navy’s Centre of Excellence for Wargaming and Arctic Studies.
The ‘Chola’ building draws inspiration from the maritime dominance of the Chola dynasty. Its central foyer features a mural depicting Rajendra Chola’s expedition to the Srivijaya Empire, highlighting India’s historical maritime influence. Constructed adhering to GRIHA-III standards, the building emphasizes sustainability and energy efficiency, incorporating features like the utilization of excavated soil for environmental initiatives, a rainwater harvesting system with a capacity of over 10 lakh liters, a 100KW solar power generation facility, and compliance with green building norms. Remarkably, the construction preserved a century-old Banyan tree, reflecting the project’s commitment to environmental preservation.
Strategically situated with a view of the Portuguese colonial fort at Reis Magos, the building’s location symbolizes India’s determination to move beyond its colonial past. It also serves as a reminder of Chhatrapati Shivaji’s belief in the power of maritime dominance, encapsulating the principle ‘Jalameva Yasya, Balameva Tasya’ (He who controls the sea is all powerful).
This inauguration marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards achieving self-reliance in defense education and underscores the nation’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its maritime capabilities.