Ancient Maritime History of Indian Navy

Maritime Activities of the Harappans

• Advanced techniques were employed by the Harappans for maritime activities, indicating their proficiency in navigation and trade.

Orders from Alexander the Great

• Nearchus was given orders by Alexander the Great to sail from the mouth of the Indus River to the Euphrates River, showcasing the strategic military and exploratory initiatives of the period.

References in Ancient Texts

• The ancient Indian text "Rigveda" contains references to the ocean, boats, sea voyages, and invocations to Varuna, highlighting the cultural significance of maritime themes in early Indian literature.

Chinese Junks in 125 AD

• In 125 AD, Chinese Junks voyaged to India for trading purposes, indicating the active maritime trade relationships between China and India during this period.

Naval Fleet of Ancient Civilizations

• The ancient Chola civilization maintained a strong naval fleet on the Coromandel Coast, demonstrating their maritime prowess and influence in regional trade.

Expansion of Chola Power

• The Cholas established their power in the Malayan Peninsula during the 9th century, marking a significant expansion of their influence across Southeast Asia.

Risky Land Route

• The land route through the northern regions was found to be more risky and expensive compared to the sea route through the Euphrates and Persian Gulf, impacting trade decisions of the era.

Resistance to British Occupation

• The Portuguese challenged the British occupation of Bombay from the Island of Khanderi, illustrating the geopolitical conflicts during the colonial period.

Combatant Status of East India Company Ships

• East India Company ships arriving in Surat acquired combatant status in 1661, which allowed them to engage in naval actions, reflecting the militarization of trade.

Indian Navy Re-designation

• The Indian Navy was re-designated from the Royal Indian Navy in 1950, marking a transition to an independent naval force following India's independence.