PM Modi Celebrates Indian Navy Day: Honoring Maritime Defenders and Their Growing Self-Reliance

December 4 marks the commemoration of the Indian Navy's success during the 1971 war.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to all Indian Navy personnel on Navy Day, highlighting the force's growing self-reliance, unwavering resolve, and valiant protection of the nation's maritime boundaries.

Navy Day, observed annually on December 4, celebrates the Indian Navy's achievements and contributions to national security. This significant date commemorates the Navy's triumph during the 1971 war when, as part of Operation Trident, Indian forces successfully sank four Pakistani vessels, including PNS Khaibar, delivering a decisive blow to Pakistan's naval capabilities.

In his message posted on X, Prime Minister Modi stated, "Navy Day greetings to all personnel of the Indian Navy. Our Navy is synonymous with exceptional courage and determination. They safeguard our shores and uphold our maritime interests. In recent years, our Navy has focused on self-reliance and modernization. This has enhanced our security apparatus."

The Prime Minister expressed that he would always cherish memories of this year's Diwali, which he spent with naval personnel aboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.

"Wishing the Indian Navy the very best for their endeavors ahead," he added.

In a video message, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the Navy's critical role in securing the nation's maritime boundaries and economic interests.

"In the ocean, our Navy is determined to protect the maritime borders and commercial interests of the country. Whether it is offshore patrol vessels, submarines or aircraft carriers. Today, the strength of the Indian Navy is increasing exponentially," he remarked.

He further highlighted India's longstanding tradition of utilizing strength for global benefit, saying, "India's tradition has been about power and strength. Our knowledge, our strength is for the service of humanity and for the security of humanity. Today, when the economic system of the country is dependent on the interconnected world and progressive maritime borders, India's Navy is playing an important role in global stability."

Meanwhile, the Indian Navy demonstrated its expanding maritime capabilities in an operational showcase off the Thiruvananthapuram coast in Kerala on Wednesday.

From the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant to the frontline frigate Udaygiri, the event showcased the force's multi-domain combat readiness.

President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, witnessed the impressive display from Shangumugham Beach as part of the Navy Day celebrations.

The demonstration featured 19 major warships, including INS Vikrant, a submarine, four fast intervention vessels, and 32 aircraft comprising fighter jets, surveillance planes, and helicopters, underscoring the Navy's increasing operational reach and preparedness.