Navy Foundation Pune Chapter (NFPC) organised a visit for its members to INS Shivaji, the premier training establishment of the Indian Navy for marine engineers, on 16 Mar 2025. The establishment is located about 6 km from the town of Lonavla amidst picturesque and idyllic surroundings, and surrounded by prominent tourist spots and landmarks such Bhushi Dam, Duke’s Nose and Tiger’s Leap having some incredible trekking paths and viewpoints. AC buses were arranged for those members who preferred not to drive in their own cars.

On arrival at INS Shivaji, all veterans assembled at the War Memorial (opposite the Parade ground) and paid their respects to the brave martyrs of the 1971 Indo-Pak War, where we emerged victorious due to their valiant sacrifices. President NFPC laid a floral wreath on behalf of the members of NFPC. Thereafter all members paid their homage by offering floral tributes to the departed martyrs.

After a small break for light refreshments at the Naval Officers’ Institute, the Veterans were split into two groups. The first group visited the Naval Museum having an array of historical naval artefacts, while the second visited the Jubilee Pavilion Hall which showcases the evolution of main engines on IN warships, ranging from steam to nuclear propulsion. The hall also has a replica of a boiler room. Both groups then swapped around.

Veterans thereafter proceeded to the Nuclear Biological and Chemical Defence and Fire Fighting (NBCD) School where they witnessed a live fire fighting demo on a burning helicopter. As a bonus, all veterans as well as ladies were taken inside the Damage Control simulator to appreciate the roll of a ship in heavy seas. A missile hit was then simulated to demonstrate an exercise on controlling flooding. This visit enthralled one and all. Notably, the simulator is entirely indigenously designed and built, by Goa Shipyard Ltd.

Buses were then routed to a couple of scenic points including the Watermanship Training Centre situated on the Shivsagar Lake for group photos and selfies. The final stopover was the Shivaji souvenir shop where veterans picked up souvenirs to remind them of their glorious years in the Indian Navy. Despite the sweltering heat of around 40 deg, the NFPC members took everything in their stride.

Fittingly, the grand finale comprised Pre Lunch Drinks (PLD) followed by a sumptuous Lunch at the Officers Institute. The Commanding Officer, INS Shivaji, Cmde Sameer Choudhary along with Mrs Shelly Choudhary graced the occasion and warmly interacted with the veterans and their ladies. President NFPC, V Adm Jaywant Korde thanked the CO and his team for the efforts put in to make the visit a memorable one. An NFPC memento depicting Shaniwar Wada was presented to CO INS Shivaji. Copies of Quarter Deck 2025 magazine, received from DNV, were also distributed to all NFPC members.

On completion of lunch, the NFPC members returned back to Pune, carrying with them fond memories of a wonderful day at INS Shivaji.

A few photographs of the event may be viewed by clicking this link.