Amaravati [AP]: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday highlighted the Indian Navy’s growing combat capabilities and indigenous platforms, calling for India to harness its maritime potential to advance economic growth, national prosperity and strategic strength.
Addressing a Barakhana organised by the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam, Singh commended naval personnel for safeguarding India’s maritime interests and acknowledged the support and sacrifices of their families.
He said the Navy had emerged as a powerful maritime force capable of responding decisively to challenges, with its capabilities recognised across the Indo-Pacific. He praised personnel for remaining steadfast in all weather and operational conditions while protecting India’s maritime boundaries.
Recalling the Navy’s role in the 1971 War, Singh referred to Operation Trident, during which Indian naval forces struck Karachi harbour. The operation demonstrated the Navy’s ability to defend maritime frontiers, project power and undertake offensive operations when required, he said, paying tribute to personnel whose courage and sacrifice continue to inspire generations.
Singh said the Navy had kept pace with the changing security environment of the 21st century, with India developing and inducting advanced and indigenous platforms, including indigenous aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, stealth frigates and Scorpène-class submarines.
Its strength, however, rested fundamentally on the professionalism, patriotism, courage and commitment of its personnel, alongside its ships, submarines and technology, he said.
India’s endeavour was to ensure that its waters reflected the nation’s maritime might, its warships embodied Indian technology and naval operations demonstrated the country’s growing confidence and self-reliance, Singh added.
Calling for a broader maritime vision, he urged India to pursue the philosophy of “advancing from the seas towards prosperity and power”. Oceans should be viewed as avenues for economic development, strategic influence and national prosperity, as well as boundaries requiring protection, he said.
Describing naval personnel as heroes and an inspiration to young people, Singh said they represented India’s future, strength and pride. He expressed confidence that their continued dedication would contribute to building a stronger, more prosperous and self-reliant nation.
The minister also recognised the responsibilities borne by their families. While personnel remained deployed at sea, families managed responsibilities at home and provided the strength and support needed for them to perform their duties effectively. Their combined service and sacrifices constituted a valuable national asset, he said.
Highlighting the informal and familial spirit of the Barakhana, Singh said such gatherings strengthened the bond between Defence Forces personnel, their families and the leadership. Sharing a meal was an expression of affection and togetherness, he said, describing the occasion as a symbol of the fraternity, camaraderie and sense of belonging within the larger defence family.
Singh conveyed the government’s appreciation for naval personnel’s service and reaffirmed his continued support for them and their families.
[DD News]