During his visit aboard the INS Vikrant in Goa on October 20, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated India's escalating maritime power and the unwavering bravery of the Navy. He stated, "This is not just a warship; it symbolizes the creativity, determination, and global stance of 21st-century India."

He emphasized the critical impact of the vessel during recent missions, remarking, "INS Vikrant demonstrated the might of India’s armed forces, forcing Pakistan to concede in mere days during Operation Sindoor."

Marking the Diwali festival with the dedicated personnel of the Indian Navy aboard the indigenously designed aircraft carrier, which is anchored off Goa's coast, carried significant weight, particularly amid ongoing regional tensions. The Prime Minister's affirmations resonated with the crew as he praised their unyielding spirit.

"These powerful ships, agile aircraft, and stealthy submarines are impressive, yet it is your courage that turns them into potent tools of strength. With you aboard, they become formidable weapons crafted from iron."

Reflecting on his overnight stay on the carrier, PM Modi expressed a personal sentiment: "The night I spent here is beyond words. The energy, patriotism, and enthusiasm—especially when you sang about Operation Sindoor—captured the essence of a warrior on the battlefield."

His comments highlighted his emotional connection with the armed forces, further underscored by his heartfelt Diwali message: "I feel honored to celebrate this sacred festival with you, my courageous naval family, who protect India's maritime borders."

Commissioned in September 2022, INS Vikrant is India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, weighing 45,000 tonnes and capable of launching over 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K fighters and various helicopters.

Fitted with state-of-the-art radar, electronic warfare systems, and a ski-jump deck, it leads a powerful carrier battle group consisting of frigates, submarines, and support vessels. This "mobile war center" extends India's influence far beyond its coastlines, serving as a linchpin in the nation's maritime strategy.

The carrier's deployment in the Arabian Sea has raised concerns within Pakistan's defense community, as its capacity to monitor and engage targets up to 400 km away poses a direct threat to critical assets like the ports of Karachi and Gwadar.

PM Modi's presence on the Vikrant, along with his pointed remarks regarding Operation Sindoor, has been interpreted as a strong message to Islamabad, reinforcing India's commitment to naval supremacy.

Not only did PM Modi uplift the morale of the Navy, but he also showcased India's self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing on a global stage. This event highlighted the country's strategic shift towards maritime dominance in the Indo-Pacific, a region of escalating geopolitical importance.