Telangana govt seeks old submarine, aircraft to turn them into museum

The Telangana government has urged the Ministry of Defence to provide a war flight and a submarine to turn them into the museum in Hyderabad. It has sought TU-142M, an anti-submarine de-inducted last year, and a submarine for display for people and the tourists visiting Hyderabad. Tourism Secretary B. Venkatesham on Friday said he has approached Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) Chairman Dr. Satish Reddy and Secretary, Department of Defence. Eight TU-142 M was inducted into the Indian Navy in 1988.

The Soviet-era aircraft, known as one of the most formidable airborne reconnaissance platforms around the world, was part of all major naval exercises and operations. They were re-inducted last year. Two of these aircraft were re-assembled in Visakhapatnam and West Bengal. "The objective is to educate citizens on the activities of the Indian Navy and its service to the nation," Venkatesham said. The Department of Tourism is planning to demonstrate the museum in coordination with DRDO which would encourage a lot of youngsters to join the defence, he said.

(With inputs from agencies.)