PM Modi celebrates Diwali onboard INS Vikrant with Navy
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali aboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, stationed off the coasts of Goa and Karwar. Speaking from the aircraft carrier, PM Modi lauded their courage and commitment to the nation, calling the occasion deeply symbolic and memorable. "Today is an amazing day. This scene is memorable.., on one side I have infinite horizons and sky, and on the other stands INS Vikrant, embodying infinite power," he said.
Emotional tribute
'Sun's rays on ocean waters look like Diwali lamps'
He added that the sun's rays on the ocean waters looked like Diwali lamps lit by brave soldiers. He called INS Vikrant not just a warship but a testament to India's hard work, talent, capability, and commitment in the 21st century. "The day India received the Swadeshi INS Vikrant, our Indian Navy discarded a major symbol of colonial subjugation," he said.
Role
Vikrant sends waves of fear across Pakistan: PM
The PM also recalled INS Vikrant's role during Operation Sindoor, stating that now the very name "Vikrant" sends waves of fear across Pakistan. He said the fear generated by the Indian Navy, the extraordinary skill displayed by the Air Force, the bravery of the Army, and the tremendous coordination among the three forces forced Pakistan to surrender quickly. "Therefore....once again, from this sacred and heroic ground of INS Vikrant, I salute the brave personnel of all three forces," he said.
Alert
Navy placed on high alert
Following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attacks, the Navy was placed on high alert in the Arabian Sea, causing Pakistan to issue warnings about fears of a naval strike. At the time, India Today, citing sources, reported that the Indian Navy deployed 36 frontline naval assets near Karachi during Operation Sindoor, which included INS Vikrant and multiple submarines. The deployment reportedly included seven destroyers equipped with BrahMos missiles, Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MRSAM), and Varunastra heavyweight torpedoes.
Festive custom
PM Modi's Diwali celebrations with armed forces since 2014
Since assuming office in 2014, PM Modi has made it a point to celebrate Diwali with the armed forces. In his first year, he celebrated the festival at Siachen Glacier in Ladakh. The next year, he visited the Dograi War Memorial in Amritsar to honor heroes of the 1965 war. Over the years, he has celebrated Diwali with troops stationed at various locations across India. "Everyone wants to celebrate Diwali with their family...That is why I come [here]," he said.