21 June: KOLKATA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three indigenously built platforms of the Indian Navy in Kolkata, marking a significant milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing and maritime security.
The commissioning ceremony underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s naval capabilities under the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The newly inducted platforms, designed and built in India, are expected to enhance the Navy’s operational readiness and bolster maritime surveillance and security capabilities.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the growing strength of India’s indigenous defence sector and praised Indian engineers, shipbuilders, scientists, and defence personnel for contributing to the country’s maritime modernization efforts. He said the commissioning reflects India’s ability to develop advanced defence assets using domestic expertise and technology.
The Prime Minister noted that India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with greater emphasis on indigenous production, innovation, and reduced dependence on imports. He said self-reliance in defence not only strengthens national security but also creates employment opportunities and promotes technological advancement.
Officials stated that the newly commissioned naval platforms are equipped with modern systems and capabilities designed to support a wide range of operational requirements. These additions are expected to enhance the Navy’s ability to safeguard India’s maritime interests and respond effectively to emerging security challenges.
The commissioning ceremony also highlighted the strategic importance of maritime security in an increasingly interconnected world. With India’s extensive coastline and growing role in global trade, strengthening naval capabilities remains a key national priority.
Defence experts described the induction as a major boost to the Indian Navy’s modernization programme. They noted that domestically built naval assets contribute to operational flexibility while supporting the long-term development of India’s defence industrial base.
The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s focus on expanding indigenous defence production and encouraging collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders. He emphasized that investments in research, innovation, and advanced manufacturing are helping position India as an emerging defence production hub.
Senior naval officials said the induction of the platforms will strengthen maritime operations and support the Navy’s mission of ensuring security in the Indian Ocean Region. They also highlighted the importance of continuous modernization in addressing evolving strategic and security requirements.
The event was attended by senior defence officials, naval personnel, industry representatives, and dignitaries who hailed the achievement as a testament to India’s growing technological and manufacturing capabilities.
Observers believe that the successful commissioning of indigenous naval platforms reflects the progress made under India’s defence self-reliance initiatives. The move is expected to further encourage domestic defence production and reinforce the country’s strategic capabilities.
As India continues to modernize its armed forces, the induction of home-built naval assets represents another step toward building a stronger, more capable, and self-reliant defence sector capable of meeting future challenges.
