Sayan Chatterjee, Mumbai, January 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Maharashtra marked a momentous day for India’s maritime achievements. On Wednesday, he dedicated three frontline naval combatants—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—to the nation during their commissioning at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. Addressing the gathering, PM Modi noted the significance of January 15 as Army Day, paying tribute to the courageous soldiers who selflessly sacrificed their lives for the nation’s safety and security. He extended heartfelt congratulations to all brave warriors on this proud occasion.
These state-of-the-art vessels represent India’s prowess in defence manufacturing: INS Surat, a guided-missile destroyer, and INS Nilgiri, a stealth frigate, showcase indigenous design and innovation. INS Vaghsheer, the sixth Scorpene-class submarine, further cements India’s strategic submarine-building capabilities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s resolute commitment to strengthening its defence sector by commissioning three advanced naval combatants—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—marking a pivotal step toward self-reliance and maritime excellence. He remarked that India is rapidly emerging as a significant naval power, with the 21st-century Indian Navy recognized globally as a dependable partner, particularly in the Global South. “India has truly established itself as the First Responder in the Indian Ocean Region,” he stated.
The Prime Minister emphasized the vital role of maritime nations like India in ensuring global security, economic progress, and geopolitical stability. He underscored the importance of protecting territorial waters, maintaining freedom of navigation, and securing trade routes critical for energy security and economic growth. Highlighting challenges like terrorism, arms, and drug trafficking, PM Modi stressed the need for global partnerships to create safer and more prosperous seas.
He also called for sustainable management of ocean resources, including rare minerals and fish stocks. He emphasized investing in new routes and efficient logistics to support the shipping industry. Expressing satisfaction with India’s proactive measures, the Prime Minister noted that the Indian Navy has recently saved hundreds of lives and safeguarded cargo worth thousands of crores, bolstering global trust in India’s maritime capabilities.
India’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean has significantly enhanced its economic ties with ASEAN, Australia, Gulf countries, and African nations. PM Modi highlighted the significance of the day’s events, celebrating military strength and economic collaboration as integral to India’s growing influence on the global stage.
Furthermore, in his address, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi exuded confidence that these three platforms will enhance the capabilities of the Indian Navy and make it even more effective in safeguarding maritime interests. He described the commissioning ceremony as a result of the hard work and efficiency of every member of MDL, NHQ, Western Naval Command, Wathe ship Overseeing Team and field units.
The commissioning of three advanced naval combatants marks a significant stride toward India’s ambition of becoming a global leader in defence manufacturing and maritime security. INS Surat, the final ship of the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project, is among the world’s largest and most advanced destroyers, boasting 75% indigenous content, cutting-edge weaponry, and network-centric systems. INS Nilgiri, the inaugural ship of the P17A Stealth Frigate Project, reflects next-generation design with enhanced survivability, stealth, and seakeeping capabilities. Meanwhile, INS Vaghsheer, the last submarine of the P75 Scorpene Project, highlights India’s growing submarine-building expertise, developed in partnership with France’s Naval Group.
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