The Establishment

1. Nestled in the Sahyadris at Lonavla (Maharashtra State), occasionally blanketed in clouds and at times lifting its veil, is the alma mater of Naval Engineers - Indian Naval Ship Shivaji, the Marine Engineering training establishment of the Navy. The surrounding hills and valleys remain mute witnesses to the illustrious voyage of this ship with its commissioning on 15 Feb 1945. As HMIS Shivaji, it had cast off in the then uncharted waters of marine engineering technology. Today, it is more than half a century old and is a seat of advanced learning. INS Shivaji has been the fountainhead of engineering knowledge, imbibing in its alumni its very essence - PROFESSIONALISM , CONFIDENCE and STRENGTH .

What's in a name

2. The Sahyadri ranges occupy an important position in Indian history. In the sixteenth century, this area was rich in flora and fauna with beautiful rivers, streams and waterfalls. It was the land of the Marathas, land of the legendary Chatrapatti (Emperor) Shivaji who, in February 1661, routed the Mughal army led by Kartalab Khan, one of Aurangazeb's generals, in the historic battle of Umbre.

3. The battle was found at the foothills of the famour "Duke's Nose" (a natural formation bordering the establishment). The famous Maratha chieftain achieved an impossible victory by his ingenuity, organizational ability and valour.

4. The great Maratha warrior had also founded the Maratha Navy that valiantly fought the superior British fleet at many battles with their small and swift ships. It was but natural that a Naval establishment in this historic location should be named after the great Chatrapatti and impart his ideals of dedication to work, ingenuity, profressionalism and the spirit of adventure to those who pass through its hallowed portals.

The Role

5. The role of INS Shivaji is to impart quality training in engineering and marine technology to both officers and men whilst simultaneously ensuring a balanced overall development of individual character, personality and naval values. Towards this end, the establishment conducts abinitio and specialisation courses for officers and sailors. The spectrum of officers' training encompasses Cadets training, professional graduate level training at the Naval College of Engineering and post graduate Marine Engineering Specialisation Course (MESC) at the Centre of Marine Engineering Technology. A post graduation programme, leading to award of Master of Technology degree, has been commenced at the Naval College of Engineering w.e.f. Jun 2004, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay.

6. The Nuclear, Biological, Chemical Defence and Damage Control School (NBCD School) is also co-located in this establishment. The School conducts a wide variety of courses in Nuclear, Biological Chemical Defence and fire fighting for every conceivable cadre and branch of the Navy. Yet another important facet of training at Shivaji is ship specific "type training" on systems, auxiliary machinery and main propulsion plants. This training is conducted at the Pre-Commissioning Training School of the Centre of Marine Engineering Technology.

7. Course curriculum is enriched by the inclusion of Trainee Development Schedule (TRADES) activities aimed at character development. The establishment has also been designated as Command Trekking Rock Climbing Adventure Centre. Excellent facilities are provided for participation in sports, games, adventure activities and cultural activities so as to ensure that the trainee on passing out from this establishment is not simply an engineer but also a good Naval officer or sailor.

8. In recogniation of the need of continued professional training of civilian personnel, a ` Civilian Training Cell ' has been constituted under the Centre of Marine Engineering Technology. This Cell is entrusted with identification of training requirements as well as planning and scheduling of courses for civilians. The courses - both professional and soft skills - are conducted through inhouse resources as well as reputed training institutions in the country.

Our Crest and Motto

9. The crest of Shivaji contains "THE ARM THAT WIELDS THE HAMMER". The motto of the establishment " KARMASU KAUSHALAM " means " SKILL AT WORK ". The motto and the crest not only bestir a sense of belonging amongst the men of the institution but also confer it with a character. The philosophies of "Practice makes Perfect" and "Work is Worship" has been amalgamated to formulate the motto "SKILL AT WORK". The arm wielding the hammer, rising above the water, signifies the human power and dexterity of the man behind the machine, denoting a meaningful liaison between subtle skill and gross power. The alumni of INS Shivaji are proude to proclaim that their motto is not merely an assembly of words, but an appropriate expression of intrinsic professional abilities.

How to Reach Us

10. INS Shivaji at Lonavla is situated between two major cities viz Mumbai and Pune. Lonavla is well connected by both road and rail routes.

Location & Climate

11. INS Shivaji is located 8 Kms away from the township of Lonavla. The temperature varies between 16 and 30 degree Celsius. The South West monsoons bring heavy rain in this area from June to September. During monsoons, Lonavla, including surrounding areas, remain covered under a blanket of clouds, attracting tourists from far off places. Lonavla being a low altitude hill resort, it is advisable to carry light woolens. However, summer uniform is worn throughout the year.

Places of Historical Importance and Major Tourist Centres

12. Lonavla, by virtue of its beautiful surroundings and location is a natural hill resort and attracts thousands of visitors each year during the months of June to October. The hills surrounding INS Shivaji are a trekker's delight. An outdoor camping expedition over a weekend in the midst of nature can be an exhilarating experience. Khandala and Lonavla which are neighbouring townships, boast of a number of popular tourist attractions like the Karla and Bhaja caves with ancient Buddhist temples and sculpture. Valvan Dam, Tungarli Lake, Bhushi Dam, Rotunda Vertigo, Tiger's Leap, Duke's Nose, Rajmachi Point and a myriad of historic forts etc are the other tourist attractions.