TFP Bureau, Mumbai, January 15, 2025: In a historic event marking India’s strides towards becoming a global maritime power, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicated three frontline naval combatants—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—to the nation today at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. The commissioning of these platforms symbolizes a significant leap in India’s defense capabilities, with a special focus on self-reliance and maritime security.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the dedication of these combatants aligns with India’s vision to empower its 21st-century navy and bolster its defense sector. “Today, India is emerging as a major maritime power,” he said, underscoring the role of the Navy in safeguarding the nation’s interests in the land, water, air, and deep seas. He also expressed pride in the fact that all three naval platforms—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—were indigenously built, embodying the nation’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
A Glimpse into India’s Maritime Legacy and Future Aspirations
The commissioning of these platforms is not just a technological achievement but also a tribute to India’s rich maritime heritage, dating back to the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. PM Modi spoke of India’s long history of sea voyages, commerce, and naval defense, noting that the newly launched ships and submarines embody the nation’s growing maritime prowess. Among the highlights was the INS Nilgiri, dedicated to the maritime legacy of the Chola dynasty, and the Surat warship, reflecting Gujarat’s historic maritime connections with West Asia.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the commissioning of these vessels represents India’s commitment to not only protecting its shores but also playing a pivotal role in global maritime security. He highlighted that India, as a reliable global partner, continues to promote an open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region through its vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). India’s commitment to ensuring safe and free navigation and securing vital trade routes was a focal point of his address.
India’s Maritime Power and Global Responsibility
PM Modi stressed that India has emerged as the “First Responder” across the Indian Ocean Region, citing the Indian Navy’s recent efforts in saving lives and securing national and international cargo worth billions. He pointed to the country’s role in humanitarian missions and its growing influence in the region, further solidifying India’s standing as a major maritime force on the global stage.
The Prime Minister also noted the significant transformation in India’s defense sector, with a focus on self-reliance. Highlighting the progress in domestic defense production, he pointed to projects like the Make in India initiative, which has empowered the Indian Navy to expand its fleet with domestically built ships and submarines. “Today, India is not just enhancing its military capabilities; it is opening new avenues for economic growth,” Modi said, referencing the positive economic impact of investments in shipbuilding and the multiplier effect on employment, particularly in the MSME sector.
Strengthening India’s Defense Infrastructure and Economic Growth
As part of the ongoing defense modernization, Modi spoke of the country’s increasing defense exports, which now reach over 100 nations, and the growth in shipbuilding with 60 large ships currently under construction. He emphasized that the naval sector is a critical part of India’s economic development strategy, and the commissioning of these new combatants will significantly contribute to the country’s broader economic and strategic goals.
The Prime Minister also lauded the ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing India’s connectivity and security, including the development of strategic ports and border infrastructure. He noted the recent inauguration of critical tunnels like the Sonamarg and Sela tunnels, which are strengthening access to border areas and improving the military’s ability to respond swiftly in crucial regions.
A Vision for the Future
PM Modi concluded his address by reaffirming India’s commitment to the Make in India initiative, which has played a key role in transforming the defense sector into one of the most self-reliant and advanced in the world. He expressed confidence that the commissioning of INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer would further inspire the nation to continue moving forward with determination, building a secure, prosperous, and self-reliant India.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Maharashtra Governor Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, Union Minister for Defence Shri Rajnath Singh, Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, and Union Minister of State for Defence Shri Sanjay Seth, among others.
Background on the Frontline Combatants
INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer represent a major leap forward in India’s defense capabilities. INS Surat is the final ship of the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project, featuring 75% indigenization and advanced weapon-sensor systems. INS Nilgiri, a part of the P17A Stealth Frigate Project, incorporates state-of-the-art design features for enhanced stealth and survivability. INS Vaghsheer, the sixth submarine of the P75 Scorpene Project, showcases India’s growing expertise in submarine construction and strategic defense. These vessels will play a critical role in enhancing India’s security and geopolitical standing in the coming decades.
