Puri: President Droupadi Murmu, while presiding over the Navy Day celebrations on Wednesday, expressed confidence in the Indian Navy's pivotal role in safeguarding maritime security, which she described as essential for India's rise to a ‘Viksit Bharat' by 2047 amid the nation's growing global influence and expanding economic interests.
She also lauded the Navy's strides toward self-reliance, emphasising its efforts to become an Atmanirbhar force by 2047, with 63 ships currently under construction. "It is a matter of pride for every Indian that we are today one of only six nations capable of designing, building, and operating both a ballistic missile nuclear submarine and an aircraft carrier," she added.
The president said the seamless integration of advanced technology, tactical acumen, and sheer courage on display on Navy Day aptly showcases the evolution of the Indian Navy into a combat-ready, future-ready, and credible force.
The grand Navy Day celebration saw thousands gathering to witness the Navy's combat readiness and technological prowess. Fifteen warships and advanced aircraft, including MiG 29K fighters and MH 60R helicopters, showcased their capabilities, while the elite MARCOS commandos demonstrated beach reconnaissance.
Speaking at the event, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi said, "The Indian Navy stands as a combat-ready, credible, cohesive, and future-ready force to safeguard India's national maritime interests … anytime, anywhere, anyhow," he declared.
The celebration commemorated the legendary Operation Trident of 1971 and featured crowd-pleasing performances, including the naval band and the traditional hornpipe dance by SCC cadets. The evening concluded with a dazzling display of illuminated ships, and an innovative laser and drone show.
This year marked the second time the Navy organised such a large-scale event away from a major naval Station, demonstrating its operational capabilities in remote locations.
The event was graced by dignitaries, including governor Raghubar Das, Orissa high court Chief Justice Chakradhari Sharan Singh, chief minister Mohan Majhi, Puri king Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, Union ministers, MPs, MLAs, and senior military officials.