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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali on Monday aboard INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, along with personnel of the Indian Navy off the Goa coast. The celebration marked a continuation of his decade-long tradition of spending the festival of lights with India’s armed forces — a symbolic gesture of gratitude and solidarity with those safeguarding the nation’s borders and seas.

Addressing the naval personnel on the majestic flight deck of INS Vikrant, the Prime Minister lauded the courage, discipline, and coordination of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, recalling how their joint efforts had brought decisive victories in critical military operations. “The extraordinary coordination among our three services compelled Pakistan to surrender during Operation Sindoor,” Modi said, adding that the nation’s security forces had displayed unmatched valour and commitment in ensuring peace and stability. “Because of their efforts, India has reached a major milestone by eliminating Maoist terrorism,” he remarked.

“INS Vikrant Instills Fear in the Enemy”

Referring to the pride of the Indian Navy, the Prime Minister said that INS Vikrant’s very name inspires confidence among Indians and dread among adversaries. “Just a few months ago, we saw that INS Vikrant — with its name alone — gave sleepless nights to Pakistan. The fear instilled by the Navy, the skill of the Air Force, and the bravery of the Army — this unity of purpose forced Pakistan to surrender so swiftly during Operation Sindoor,” he said in Hindi, drawing applause from the assembled sailors and officers.

During his visit, Modi also waved at MiG-29K fighter jets taking off from the carrier’s deck and witnessed a spectacular air power demonstration, featuring coordinated takeoffs and landings on the ship’s short runway — both in daylight and after sunset.

Push for ‘Atmanirbharta’ in Defence

The Prime Minister underscored that self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) is essential for strengthening India’s defence capability. “We are proud that in the last decade, our armed forces have taken firm strides toward self-reliance,” Modi said. “The services identified 1,000 items that will no longer be imported. As a result, most of the essential equipment for the Army is now made within India. In the past 11 years, our defence production has more than tripled.”

Highlighting the Navy’s contribution, he added, “Since 2014, the Indian Navy has received over 40 indigenously-built warships and submarines from Indian shipyards. This progress shows India’s growing capacity to design, develop, and produce world-class defence platforms.”

“India Emerging as a Defence Export Powerhouse”

Reiterating his government’s vision to make India a global hub for defence exports, Modi said: “Missiles like BrahMos and Akash have already proven their might in Operation Sindoor. The very name ‘BrahMos’ sends shivers down the spine of some. Today, several countries want to purchase these systems. India is building the capability not only to equip its own forces but also to export to friendly nations. In the last decade, defence exports have increased more than 30 times.”

Day of Engagements on Board

Officials said the Prime Minister’s visit to INS Vikrant was packed with engagements — beginning with an early morning yoga session on the deck, followed by a ceremonial steam-past and fly-past. Modi interacted with sailors, exchanged Diwali greetings, and distributed sweets. Later, he attended a cultural programme where naval personnel performed patriotic songs, including one dedicated to the success of Operation Sindoor. Expressing appreciation, Modi said: “When I saw you sing about Operation Sindoor, I felt that no poet could capture the emotion that a soldier feels in the battlefield. Your voices carried that spirit.” In the evening, he joined officers, sailors, and their families for the traditional Bara Khana — a community dinner marking camaraderie between ranks.

A Decade-Long Tradition

Since taking office in 2014, Prime Minister Modi has made it a tradition to celebrate Diwali with members of the armed forces — from Siachen and Sumdo to Rajouri, Kargil, and Sir Creek. His annual visits have become a symbol of national appreciation for the men and women who serve away from their families during festive times. “Your dedication and discipline illuminate India’s borders more brightly than any Diwali lamp,” Modi told the sailors, concluding his address amid cheers and chants of Bharat Mata ki Jai echoing across the Arabian Sea.