Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Speech at the Commissioning of INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer
Narendra ModiPrime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Speech at the Commissioning of INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer. The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, began his address by paying tribute to every brave soldier on Army Day, commending their sacrifices to protect India. He also acknowledged the distinguished guests at the event, including the Governor of Maharashtra, C.P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and senior ministers like Rajnath Singh and Eknath Shinde.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Speech at the Commissioning of INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer
A Milestone in India’s Maritime Heritage
The Prime Minister described the commissioning of INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer as a monumental occasion for India’s maritime heritage and Atmanirbhar Bharat. Drawing inspiration from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who rejuvenated India’s naval power, Shri Modi noted that this event marks a step toward strengthening India’s Navy in the 21st century. Narendra Modi celebrated the significance of the Made in India platforms, marking the first time that a destroyer, frigate, and submarine were being commissioned together, all of which were locally constructed. He extended his congratulations to the Indian Navy, engineers, workers, and Mazagon Dockyard for their efforts in realizing this achievement.
Linking Heritage with Future Aspirations
The Prime Minister emphasized that this event symbolizes the connection between India’s glorious maritime history and the country’s future aspirations. Narendra Modi highlighted the rich legacy of India’s naval defense and shipbuilding, which dates back centuries. The commissioning of these platforms, such as the INS Nilgiri, named after the powerful maritime legacy of the Chola dynasty, and the INS Surat, evoking the era when India’s Gujarat ports were connected to West Asia, illustrates the continuous link between India’s past and present as it ascends to become a major maritime power.
He also recalled his participation in the commissioning of Kalvari, India’s first P75-class submarine, a few years ago and expressed pride in inaugurating INS Vaghsheer, the sixth submarine in the same class. These new platforms, he noted, would bolster both India’s security and economic progress.
India as a Responsible Global Partner
The Prime Minister highlighted that the world now recognizes India as a reliable and responsible partner, especially within the Global South. Narendra Modi reaffirmed that India’s approach is rooted in development, not expansionism, and emphasized that India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific region focuses on security, openness, and prosperity. He pointed out India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative, which emphasizes cooperation and support for neighboring nations. He also spoke about India’s G-20 Presidency and its guiding principles, such as One Earth, One Family, One Future and One Earth, One Health during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Securing the Global Maritime Region
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of securing India’s territorial waters and sea routes for global economic progress and energy security. He called for stronger global cooperation to ensure the freedom of navigation, protect trade lines, and prevent terrorism, arms, and drug smuggling. He acknowledged the efforts of the Indian Navy, which has become the first responder in the Indian Ocean Region, saving lives and safeguarding international cargo. This proactive approach has significantly strengthened global trust in India.
India’s Role in Global Cooperation
Shri Modi underscored that India’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean Region is fundamental to strengthening its relations with ASEAN, Australia, Gulf, and African countries. He pointed out that India’s maritime capabilities and security contributions form the basis of this enhanced cooperation.
Modernizing India’s Military for the 21st Century
In his closing remarks, the Prime Minister emphasized that modernizing India’s military to meet the challenges of the 21st century is a key priority.
Narendra Modi noted the comprehensive reforms taking place, such as the formation of the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) and progress toward the establishment of theater commands, which aim to make the Indian military more efficient and effective across land, sea, air, and space.
The event, according to Prime Minister Modi, not only reflects India’s military strength but also marks a key moment in the nation’s growth as a global maritime power.
