The body of Leading Seaman Sitendra Singh, who went missing after a significant fire broke out onboard the INS Brahmaputra at Mumbai's naval dockyard, was found on Wednesday, officials confirmed.
The INS Brahmaputra, an advanced guided missile frigate, sustained severe damage and listed heavily to one side following the blaze on Sunday evening.
The warship was undergoing maintenance at the time of the incident.
Navy spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal announced the recovery of Singh’s body after intensive diving operations.
Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi extended condolences to Singh's family and directed efforts to restore the ship to seaworthy and combat-ready status.
Admiral Tripathi encouraged the crew to expedite the ship’s operational readiness.
The INS Brahmaputra, commissioned in April 2000, is the lead ship of the indigenous Brahmaputra-class guided missile frigates.
Rescue operations were launched immediately after the fire, which left the ship resting on its port side. On Monday, Admiral Tripathi briefed Defence Minister Rajnath Singh about the incident and the extensive damage incurred.
The Defence Minister's office reported that he offered prayers for the missing sailor and instructed the Navy Chief to take appropriate action.
The fire on the INS Brahmaputra represents a significant challenge for the Indian Navy, as the warship plays a crucial role in the country's maritime defense.
The prompt recovery efforts and directives from the Navy Chief highlight the commitment to maintaining operational readiness despite the setbacks.