A Diwali on the High Seas
Continuing his annual tradition of spending Diwali with the armed forces, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the festival of lights this year with the sailors and officers of the Indian Navy. The celebration took place on the high seas, with the indigenously-built aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, serving as the powerful backdrop for the Prime Minister’s visit.
Addressing the naval personnel, PM Modi’s words were a potent mix of historical pride, strategic messaging, and a heartfelt tribute to the guardians of India’s maritime frontiers. His presence was a clear signal: while the nation celebrates, its protectors remain ever-vigilant, and the country’s leadership stands firmly with them.
‘Gave Pakistan Sleepless Nights’: A Nod to 1971 Victory
The most striking part of his address was a direct reference to the Navy’s decisive role in the 1971 war, which shaped the subcontinent’s geography. “The old INS Vikrant played a crucial role in the 1971 war,” PM Modi declared, his voice echoing with conviction. “It gave Pakistan sleepless nights, and its memory continues to be a source of immense pride.”
This statement masterfully connected the Navy’s glorious past with its formidable present. The original INS Vikrant was instrumental in the creation of Bangladesh, enforcing a naval blockade on East Pakistan that choked enemy supply lines. By linking the new, state-of-the-art INS Vikrant to this victorious legacy, the Prime Minister sent an unequivocal message to adversaries that India’s naval power is a deep-rooted, battle-hardened capability that has only grown stronger.
INS Vikrant: A Symbol of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
The new INS Vikrant is the biggest symbol of India’s enhanced strength and self-reliance. A floating fortress of steel, it is the crown jewel of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative. The Prime Minister highlighted that every cable, plate, and piece of equipment on the giant vessel is a testament to Indian engineering, talent, and resolve. The commissioning of an indigenous aircraft carrier marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s journey towards strategic autonomy.
Boosting Morale on the Frontlines
The celebration aboard was more than symbolic. PM Modi shared sweets, interacted freely with the sailors, and participated in the festivities, reinforcing the message that the armed forces are an extension of the national family. This annual ritual serves a dual purpose: it immensely boosts the morale of the troops away from their families on a major festival, and it reassures 1.4 billion citizens that their borders are in the safest hands.
As diyas lit up homes across India, the gleam from the deck of INS Vikrant, illuminated by the Prime Minister’s presence, shone a light of strength, deterrence, and unwavering national pride.
