Port Blair. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visited Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) on January 13 and 14.

On arrival at INS Utkrosh, Port Blair on January 13, she was received by Commander in Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN) Vice Admiral Bimal Verma at HQ ANC, the Defence Minister was given a comprehensive briefing and update on thrust areas and achievements of the Command.

On January 14, she visited Campbell Bay and reviewed the operational readiness of the Command.

The Defence Minister witnessed all four components working jointly in unison during an amphibious demonstration. The exercise, conducted near Campbell Bay included 10 ships, six aircrafts and 700 troops of the Command.

The Marine Commando (MARCO) unit of Indian Navy and specialist platoon (GHATAK) of Indian Army displayed their operational capabilities by carrying out helocasting, and beach assault. While returning from Campbell Bay the Minister visited the southernmost part of India, Indira Point.

After arrival at Port Blair, Sitharaman was given a demonstration on jungle survival skills at Military Station, Birchgunj. Later, she inaugurated the phase II of Married Accommodation Project (MAP) that includes 868 dwelling units for the troops of Andaman Nicobar Command.

During her earlier visit in October 2017, the RM had celebrated Diwali with the troops and on this occasion she wished the troops a very happy Lohri, Makar Sankranti and Pongal as she interacted with troops at Port Blair.