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Aboard INS Vikrant Goa, Oct 20 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday celebrated Diwali aboard the indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, where he interacted with personnel and officers of the Indian Navy.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister appreciated the exemplary role of the Army, Navy and Air Force during Operation Sindoor, saluting the courage and coordination of the three services.
Describing INS Vikrant as “a symbol of self-reliant India and ‘Made-in-India’ strength”, the Prime Minister said, “The indigenous INS Vikrant reflects India’s growing military capability, cutting across the oceans. Just a few months ago, we saw how the very name Vikrant had given sleepless nights to the entire Pakistan.”
He said, “INS Vikrant is one whose mere name can shatter the courage of the enemy.”
Highlighting the coordinated efforts of the armed forces during Operation Sindoor, PM Modi said, “The fear created by the Indian Navy, the skill of the Indian Air Force, the bravery of the Indian Army and their seamless coordination forced Pakistan to surrender swiftly.”
Emphasizing the importance of self-reliance in defence, he said, “When war looms and the enemy is at the doorstep, one who can fight on his own always has the advantage. Self-reliance is essential to strengthen our armed forces. As more components of our defense sector become indigenous, our strength increases manifold.”
The Prime Minister said India’s defense production has more than tripled in the last 11 years, reaching a record Rs 1.5 lakh crore last year.
“Since 2014, the Navy has received more than 40 indigenous warships and submarines from Indian shipyards. Today, on an average, a new warship or submarine is commissioned into the Indian Navy every 40 days,” he said.
Referring to India’s missile power, PM Modi said, “Our missiles like BrahMos and Akash proved their strength during Operation Sindoor. The name BrahMos is enough to unsettle the enemies. Many countries now want to acquire these missiles. India is continuously building the capacity to export arms and equipment to all three services. Our aim is to become one of the top defense exporters in the world.”
Speaking emotionally about celebrating Diwali with Naval personnel, the Prime Minister said, “Everyone wants to celebrate Diwali with their families. I, too, am with my family today – you are my family. So this Diwali is special for me.”
Recalling the commissioning of INS Vikrant, he said, “When this majestic carrier was handed over to the nation, I had said that Vikrant is unique, huge and magnificent. It is not just a warship, but a living testimony of the ingenuity, hard work and determination of 21st century India.”
He also said that with the commissioning of INS Vikrant, the Navy adopted a new flag inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, removing a key symbol of the colonial legacy.
Expressing his appreciation towards the naval personnel, PM Modi said, “These huge ships, supersonic aircraft and submarines all have their own importance, but it is your spirit that gives them life. This ship may be made of iron, but when you board it, it becomes a living, breathing force.”
He said, “From this brave deck of INS Vikrant, I wish millions of my countrymen a very happy Diwali.”
–IANS
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