New Delhi, Feb 17 (NationPress) Describing the Indian Navy as a crucial facilitator of the nation’s global ambitions, Infosys founder N.R. Narayana Murthy emphasized the close relationship between India’s maritime capabilities and its goal of becoming a developed country by 2047.

During the Vice Admiral KK Nayyar Memorial Lecture themed ‘A Salute to a Life of Service’, Narayana Murthy asserted that India’s future is deeply connected to its maritime domain, pointing out the growing significance of technology, particularly AI, in contemporary warfare.

According to him, the Indian Navy is not just a protector of the coastline; it also acts as a guarantor of national security, a safeguard for maritime trade, and a facilitator of India’s global ambitions.

Narayana Murthy highlighted the transformative influence of technology on modern warfare, mentioning the increasing relevance of artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and cyber capabilities, as stated by the Ministry of Defence.

He also emphasized the timeless values upheld by the Navy—discipline, courage, teamwork, integrity, and national pride—as crucial for India’s advancement, as noted in the statement.

The annual lecture commemorating Vice Admiral Nayyar's legacy marked the 21st Foundation Day of the National Maritime Foundation (NMF), a leading institution for maritime discourse and policy advocacy.

Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, underscored the Navy’s dual role of guardian—addressing current security challenges—and steward—preparing for future strategic necessities.

He pointed out that the Navy’s increasing recognition as a primary security provider in the Indo-Pacific region is evident in the participation of over 70 nations in the upcoming International Fleet Review (IFR).

Many of these countries will also engage in the 13th edition of the MILAN multinational exercise and the 9th Conclave of Chiefs of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), during which India will take over the chairmanship, according to the statement.

This event in New Delhi was attended by high-ranking active and retired officers of the Indian Armed Forces, members of the diplomatic corps, distinguished academics, strategic analysts, and relatives and close associates of Vice Admiral Nayyar.

The National Maritime Foundation continues to honor Vice Admiral Nayyar’s legacy by enhancing maritime awareness, fostering informed policy discussions, and advocating for sustainable and secure development within India’s maritime domain, as stated.