Handing over of fair sheets and blank catridges onboard ‘INS NIRDESHAK’

1.Indian Naval survey ship 'INS NIRDESHAK', which has been in Mauritian waters since March 10, 2009 completed the hydrographic surveys of the Cargados Carajos (St. Brandon), Black River Bay, Tamarin Bay, Grand Bay and Riviere des Galets. These surveys were requested by the Government of Mauritius. Most of the existing surveys and charts of these areas are more than hundred years old.

2. At a reception onboard INS Nirdeshak on April 15, 2009, the fair sheets of the survey of Black River Bay and Tamarin Bay and, the bathometric sheet of the survey of Riviere des Galets were handed over to the H.E. Dr. The Hon. Abu Twalib Kasenally, the Minister of Housing and Lands, Government of Mauritius by the High Commissioner of India, Shri. M Ganapathi.

3. The High Commissioner of India, Shri. M Ganapathi also handed over to the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Dhun Iswar Rampersad, 100 blank cartridges for use by 25-pounder guns, which were gifted by the Government of India to the Special Mobile Force of the Government of Mauritius in March 2008.

4. INS Nirdeshak is scheduled to leave for India on April 16, 2009 after completing its hydrographic tasks. On its return journey, INS Nirdeshak will carry spares, equipment and personnel to the Agalega Islands at the request of the Government of Mauritius. Enroute, INS Nirdeshak will also undertake joint exercises with the National Coast Guard of Mauritius, which will include boarding operations for the training of marine commandos.

Port Louis
April 16, 2009.