ADDRESS BY THE HON’BLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA SMT DROUPADI MURMU ON THE EVE OF NAVY DAY

 I am delighted to be amongst you and witness the operational demonstration by the Indian Navy on the eve of Navy Day. I extend my greetings for the Navy Day, which is a celebration of selfless service and supreme sacrifice made by naval personnel in defence of our motherland.

People of India are grateful to the men and women of the Indian Navy for their service to the nation. We are proud of each one of you. On behalf of fellow citizens, I would like to thank all of you for yourprofessionalism, passion and patriotism.

I am happy to note that the Indian Navy is choosing various cities for operational demonstrations on the Navy Day. It is a welcome step to provide opportunities to the citizens of various parts of the country to witness our Navy’s excellence.

Our maritime legacy is not new. It flows from our civilisational memory from the Chola and Chera fleets; from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to Kunjali Marakkars. Kerala has a proud maritime heritage. Its warriors defended the coast against European invasion in the sixteenth century. The ancient port of Muziris was one of the important gateways through which India interacted with the world.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The Indian Ocean Region is a highly strategic and critical maritime space. It is a conduit for global energy supplies and trade. As India is positioned at its centre, we bear a special responsibility. We are committed to the idea of the oceans remaining open, stable and rules-based. As per our vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, India’s approach is collaborative rather than competitive. Our country is promoting shared awareness, capacity building, and the peaceful use of the seas.

The Indian Navy stands as the principal actor for the security of our seas. From deterring threats to combating piracy, from securing our Exclusive Economic Zone to ensuring freedom of navigation, the Navy’s role extends well beyond traditional defence. The Navy also exemplifies India’s humanitarian aspect. In crises across the Indian Ocean Region, it has acted as the first responder: evacuating citizens, providing succour, and delivering humanitarian assistance. I am happy to note that from natural disasters in the Indian Ocean to rescue missions in distant waters, the Indian Navy has become a symbol of reassurance and reliability. I am confident that new initiatives undertaken under the SAGAR vision will enhance maritime domain awareness, provide humanitarian aid, and ensure security for the international maritime community.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, India is focusing on harnessing the potential of Blue Economy as a driver of sustainable development. The Indian Navy plays an important role in these efforts. By securing sea routes, protecting marine resources, preventing illegal activities, and supporting maritime research, the Navy strengthens our vision of safe, prosperous, and sustainable oceans.

Modernisation, as well as development and adaptation of new technologies, is crucial for the combat readiness of any armed force. It is heartening to see that the Indian Navy is demonstrating the capability to design and build complex platforms in India itself. Aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, advanced Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, Nilgiri-class frigates, and Kalvari-class submarines are a few examples of our capabilities. Self-reliance strengthens national security. It also creates employment and sets in motion technological innovation. I am confident that the Indian Navy will continue to develop indigenous technologies and contribute to achieving the goal of “Viksit Bharat”.

Let us together reaffirm our commitment: to protect our seas, empower our ship-builders, support our sailors, and nurture the maritime spirit that has always defined our great civilisation. I again convey my greetings and best wishes to you all and your families on the eve of Navy Day. May the Indian Navy always be victorious!

Jai Hind!
Jai Bharat!