PM Modi commissions 3 naval platforms, says maritime strength drives power

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three indigenously built naval platforms in Kolkata on Sunday. The event underlined India's push for maritime strength and defence self-reliance.

In Short

• Modi said economic growth and national security remain closely tied to seas
• He said India must build defence strength, not serve global suppliers
• The three vessels cover combat, hydrographic surveys and anti-submarine operations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said strong maritime capabilities are a deciding factor in a country’s economic and strategic influence, as he commissioned three indigenously built naval platforms and underlined India’s focus on strengthening its presence at sea.

Addressing the event, Modi said India does not want to remain only a buyer in the defence sector and that the country’s armed forces cannot become just a market for the world. “The recognition of our capabilities lies in our self-reliance and not in becoming a market for the world,” he said.

Modi said no nation can become a major power without maritime strength. “No nation can become a big power without maritime prowess. Development, security and prosperity are tied to the seas,” he said.

He said India had demonstrated its maritime capabilities a few years ago by commissioning the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. He added that more than 40 warships and submarines have been commissioned in the last few years, while 45 large naval platforms are under construction.

The Prime Minister commissioned the stealth frigate Dunagiri, survey vessel Sanshodhak and anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft Agray at the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port. He said the frontline platforms represent key operational capabilities across maritime combat, hydrographic surveying and anti-submarine warfare.

The vessels were designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Kolkata-based defence PSU Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd. An official said the platforms have more than 75 per cent indigenous content, with extensive participation from Indian industry, including more than 200 MSMEs.

West Bengal Governor R N Ravi, Suvendu Adhikari and Indian Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan were among those present at the commissioning event.

The commissioning of the three naval platforms was presented as part of India’s wider push for self-reliance in defence, with Modi linking maritime capability to the country’s development, security and strategic standing.

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