Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal became the first Indian Minister to visit the ‘Minnehallen Memorial’ in Stavern, paying tribute to fallen sailors with solemn respect. Sonowal paid obeisance and remembered the 86 Indian seafarers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the World War II.
Speaking after the visit, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “It is an honour to visit the Minnehallen Memorial and pay tribute to the brave 94 Indian sailors who served with courage and sacrifice during World War II. Their legacy of dedication and commitment inspires us to strengthen maritime ties and uphold their spirit of resilience.”
During World War II, Indian seafarers formed the third largest foreign national group serving aboard Norwegian merchant ships. Most hailed from Punjab and Bengal, with a notable number of Christian sailors from Goa as well. At least 86 Indian seamen lost their lives in the line of duty. In honour of their sacrifice, the Norwegian government inscribed their names on copper plaques, which are now installed at the Minnehallen Memorial. The Seamen’s Memorial Hall is Norway’s official memorial in commemoration of the seafarers who perished during the First and the Second World War. In the crypt of the memorial, 8000 names of deceased seafarers are engraved into copper plates.
