New Delhi : On the occasion of Diwali, Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Indian Navy personnel aboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, marking a symbolic celebration of strength, self-reliance, and national pride. Surrounded by the vast ocean and the might of India’s armed forces, he described the moment as extraordinary—where nature’s grandeur meets the valor of the nation’s defenders.
Modi reflected on the serene night spent at sea and the sunrise that followed, calling it a deeply moving experience. From the deck of INS Vikrant, he extended festive greetings to the entire nation, celebrating the spirit of unity and resilience.
INS Vikrant: A Beacon of Self-Reliant India
The Prime Minister reiterated that INS Vikrant is more than a warship—it represents the innovation, dedication, and capability of modern India. Built indigenously, it stands as a testament to the country’s growing defence manufacturing prowess. Modi recalled the historic moment when the Navy adopted a new flag inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, symbolizing a break from colonial legacies.
He emphasized that the name Vikrant itself commands respect and instills fear in adversaries, referencing its strategic impact during Operation Sindoor. The aircraft carrier, he said, embodies the essence of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” and showcases India’s expanding military strength.
Saluting the Armed Forces
Modi paid tribute to the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, highlighting their coordinated efforts that led to swift victories in past operations. He praised their courage and skill, noting that self-reliance in defence is key to maintaining strategic advantage. Over the past decade, India has significantly reduced its dependence on imports, with thousands of defence items now produced domestically. Defence production has tripled, and shipyards have delivered over 40 indigenous vessels since 2014.
Defence Exports and Global Partnerships
India’s missile systems, including BrahMos and Akash, have proven their effectiveness and are now attracting international interest. Modi stated that India aims to become a leading global exporter of defence equipment, with exports having surged over 30 times in the last ten years. He credited this growth to indigenous defence firms and startups.
Maritime Security and Humanitarian Leadership
The Prime Minister highlighted the Navy’s role in securing vital maritime routes, noting that a significant portion of global oil and trade passes through the Indian Ocean. Through anti-piracy missions and humanitarian efforts, the Navy has become a trusted partner in regional stability. He cited past operations in Maldives, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Myanmar, Mozambique, and Madagascar as examples of India’s commitment to global service.
National Integration and Counter-Terrorism Success
Modi celebrated the decline of Maoist extremism, noting that the number of affected districts has dropped from 125 to just 11. Infrastructure and development are now flourishing in areas once plagued by violence, and many communities are celebrating Diwali freely for the first time. He credited this transformation to the bravery and sacrifice of India’s security forces.
A Vision for the Future
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister spoke of India’s rapid progress—from terrestrial achievements to space exploration—and the pivotal role of the armed forces in this journey. He described them as leaders of change, capable of shaping the nation’s destiny. With a resounding “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” Modi reaffirmed his commitment to national unity and extended warm Diwali wishes to all citizens.
