Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated this year’s Diwali aboard INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, marking the festival of lights with the nation’s naval heroes. Speaking to Navy personnel, Mr. Modi hailed the warship as a symbol of 21st-century India’s hard work, talent, and self-reliance, calling it a “towering representation of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.” His visit was not merely ceremonial; it carried a message of gratitude, unity, and national pride.
During his address, the Prime Minister spoke about Operation Sindoor, crediting the extraordinary coordination among India’s three defence services the Army, Navy, and Air Force for compelling Pakistan to surrender. He described the operation as a landmark moment that showcased the strength of a “new, confident India,” emphasizing that it was not just a military mission but the face of a nation transforming itself from within.
Mr. Modi also reflected on India’s success in combating internal threats, particularly Maoist terrorism, noting that the nation is on the verge of complete freedom from left-wing extremism. “Earlier, 125 districts were in the grip of Maoist terror, but now that number has reduced to just 11. While 90% success has been achieved, I am confident that our police and security forces will soon eliminate it entirely,” he said, crediting the courage and persistence of India’s forces for restoring peace in many regions that were once plagued by violence.
Turning to India’s growing military capabilities, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his government’s goal of making India one of the world’s top defence exporters. Since 2014, Indian shipyards have built more than 40 warships and submarines—a remarkable leap that signals India’s expanding industrial and technological prowess in defence. Highlighting the country’s missile advancements, Mr. Modi said, “The name BrahMos strikes fear in some minds, and now many nations are eager to acquire these missiles.” His remarks underscored the growing global respect for India’s indigenous weapon systems and strategic autonomy.
Reflecting on his time aboard the Vikrant, Mr. Modi said the experience was deeply moving. “The night spent yesterday on INS Vikrant is hard to put into words. I saw immense energy and enthusiasm among our sailors. When I saw you singing patriotic songs and expressing the spirit of Operation Sindoor through your voices, it filled my heart with pride,” he shared emotionally. “My Diwali has been special because it was spent amongst you—the brave protectors of our seas and skies.”
The Prime Minister’s presence aboard INS Vikrant carried both emotional and symbolic weight. It reaffirmed his tradition of celebrating Diwali with India’s soldiers, a gesture that connects citizens with the spirit of service and sacrifice that defines the armed forces. His words also served as a reminder that India’s journey towards self-reliance and military strength is not just about weaponry or warships it is about national unity, determination, and belief in the country’s capabilities.
As the lights of Diwali flickered across the Arabian Sea, INS Vikrant stood as more than just a warship it stood as a metaphor for India’s rising power, resilience, and vision for the future. With Operation Sindoor fresh in the nation’s memory and the echoes of patriotic songs reverberating on deck, the festival became a powerful celebration of courage and commitment a Diwali truly dedicated to those who guard India’s freedom.
