Q 4. What is the rationale of constructing a full-fledged naval base at Karwar, when we have two operational bases at Mumbai and Kochi on the West coast of India?

Ans. India has a large coastline of 7516 Kms with 1197 offshore islands and very large Exclusive Economic Zone of 2.01 million sq kms that is rich in resources. Therefore, India requires a strong and modern Navy to protect its varied maritime interests and shoulder additional responsibilities, particularly in the current geo-political and security situation that prevails in the Indian Ocean Region. The two major Naval Bases on the West Coat of India, ie Mumbai and Kochi have already reached their full capacities and cannot be expanded any further. Accordingly, the necessity for a third Naval base on the western seaboard to cater for the planned growth of the Navy.