Narendra Modi celebrates Diwali on board the INS Vikrant

Narendra Modi addressed the armed forces personnel during Diwali celebration on board the INS Vikrant today. Mentioning that today is a remarkable day, a remarkable moment, and a remarkable sight, Shri Modi highlighted that on one side lies the vast ocean, and on the other, the immense strength of Mother India’s brave soldiers. He noted that while one side presents the infinite horizon and boundless sky, the other side showcases the colossal might of INS Vikrant, embodying infinite power. The Prime Minister observed that the sparkle of sunlight on the sea resembles the lamps lit by valiant soldiers during Deepavali, forming a divine garland of lights. He expressed his privilege in celebrating this Diwali among the brave personnel of the Indian Navy. 

Recalling his night spent aboard INS Vikrant, the Prime Minister stated that the experience is difficult to put into words. He described the deep night at sea and the sunrise as making this Diwali especially memorable in many ways. From INS Vikrant, the Prime Minister extended heartfelt Diwali greetings to all 140 crore citizens of the country. 

Recalling the moment when INS Vikrant was handed over to the nation, Shri Modi stated that at the time, he had remarked—Vikrant is grand, immense, panoramic, unique and exceptional. “Vikrant is not merely a warship; it is a testament to 21st-century India’s hard work, talent, impact, and commitment”, emphasised the Prime Minister. He reminded that on the very day the nation received the indigenously built INS Vikrant, the Indian Navy renounced a major symbol of colonial legacy. He highlighted that inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Navy adopted a new flag.

“INS Vikrant today stands as a powerful symbol of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Made in India”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, emphasising that the indigenously built INS Vikrant, slicing through the ocean, reflects India’s military prowess. He recalled that just a few months ago, Vikrant’s very name had disrupted the sleep of Pakistan. The Prime Minister asserted that INS Vikrant is a warship whose name alone is enough to put an end to the enemy’s audacity.

Prime Minister expressed his special salute to the Indian Armed Forces on this occasion. He highlighted that the fear instilled by the Indian Navy, the extraordinary skill demonstrated by the Indian Air Force, and the bravery of the Indian Army, along with the exceptional coordination among all three services, compelled Pakistan to surrender swiftly during Operation Sindoor. He affirmed that all personnel involved are truly deserving of congratulations.

Shri Modi stated that when the enemy is in front and war is imminent, the side that possesses the strength to fight independently always holds the advantage. He emphasized that for the armed forces to be strong, self-reliance is essential. The Prime Minister expressed pride that over the past decade, India’s forces have steadily advanced towards self-reliance. He noted that the armed forces have identified thousands of items that will no longer be imported, resulting in most essential military equipment now being manufactured domestically. He highlighted that in the last 11 years, India’s defence production has more than tripled, crossing ₹1.5 lakh crore last year. Citing another example, Shri Modi informed the nation that since 2014, Indian shipyards have delivered over 40 indigenous warships and submarines to the Navy. He added that currently, on average, a new indigenous warship or submarine is being inducted into the Navy every 40 days.

“Missiles like BrahMos and Akash have proven their capabilities during Operation Sindoor. Several countries around the world are now interested in purchasing these missiles”, said the Prime Minister, emphasising that India is building the capacity to export weapons and equipment for all three armed forces. “India’s goal is to be counted among the world’s top defence exporters”, affirmed Shri Modi, stating that over the past decade, India’s defence exports have increased more than 30-fold. He credited this success significantly to the contributions of defence start-ups and indigenous defence units.

Prime Minister stated that India’s tradition regarding strength and capability has always been rooted in the principle—“Gyanaya Daanaya Cha Rakshanaya,” meaning our science, prosperity, and power are dedicated to the service and protection of humanity. He emphasized that in today’s interconnected world, where nations’ economies and progress depend heavily on maritime routes, the Indian Navy plays a crucial role in ensuring global stability. Shri Modi highlighted that 66 percent of the world’s oil supply and 50 percent of container shipments pass through the Indian Ocean. He noted that the Indian Navy is deployed as the guardian of the Indian Ocean to secure these routes. Additionally, through mission-based deployments, anti-piracy patrols, and humanitarian operations, the Indian Navy serves as a global security partner across the region.

“Indian Navy plays a significant role in ensuring the security and integrity of India’s islands”, emphasised the Prime Minister. He recalled the decision taken some time ago to hoist the national flag on every island of the country on 26th January. Shri Modi affirmed that the Navy fulfilled this national resolve, and today, the tricolour is being proudly hoisted by the Navy on every Indian island.