The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi shared the glimpses of his Diwali celebration on board the INS Vikrant with the Indian Navy.  Mentioning that this day was a remarkable day, a remarkable moment, and a remarkable sight, Shri Modi highlighted that on one side lies the vast ocean, and on the other, the immense strength of Mother India’s brave soldiers. He noted that while one side presents the infinite horizon and boundless sky, the other side showcases the colossal might of INS Vikrant, embodying infinite power. The Prime Minister observed that the sparkle of sunlight on the sea resembles the lamps lit by valiant soldiers during Deepavali, forming a divine garland of lights. He expressed his privilege in celebrating this Diwali among the brave personnel of the Indian Navy.

In a series of posts on X, Shri Modi said:

“Celebrating Diwali with our brave Navy personnel on board the INS Vikrant.”

“People love celebrating Diwali with their families. And so do I, which is why every year I meet our army and security personnel who keep our nation safe. Happy to be among our brave naval personnel on the western seaboard off Goa and Karwar on Indian Naval Ships with INS Vikrant as the flagship.”

“Highlights from INS Vikrant, including the Air Power Demo, a vibrant cultural programme and more…”

“At the majestic flightdeck of INS Vikrant, with the MiG-29 fighters.”

“Witnessed an awe-inspiring Air Power Demo on INS Vikrant, showcasing precision and prowess. The take-off and landing of MiG-29 fighters on a short runway, both in daylight and in the dark night, was a breathtaking display of skill, discipline and technological excellence.”

“Bara Khana is an integral part of the armed forces traditions. At INS Vikrant last evening, took part in the Bara Khana with naval personnel.”

“INS Vikrant is India’s pride!

This is the largest warship constructed indigenously. I recall the programme in Kochi when it was commissioned. And now, today, I had the opportunity to be here to mark Diwali.”

“Will always cherish the cultural programme on board INS Vikrant last evening. The naval personnel are truly creative and versatile. They penned a song ‘Kasam Sindoor Ki’ which will remain etched in my memory.”

“From the Air Power Demo at INS Vikrant!”

“Yoga on INS Vikrant!

Good to see brave naval personnel aboard India’s pride, INS Vikrant, take part in a Yoga session.

 May Yoga continue to unite us and strengthen both our physical and mental well-being.”

“आप सभी की तरह मुझे भी अपने परिवारवालों के साथ दिवाली मनाना बहुत पसंद है। यही वजह है कि इस पावन अवसर पर मैं देश की रक्षा में जुटे अपने सैनिकों और सुरक्षा बलों के जवानों से हर साल मिलता हूं। इस बार यह सौभाग्य मुझे गोवा और कारवार के पास पश्चिमी समुद्री सीमा पर अपने फ्लैगशिप INS विक्रांत पर मिला। अपने जांबाज नौसैनिकों के साथ यह अवसर मुझे नई ऊर्जा और नए उत्साह से भर गया है।“

“INS विक्रांत भारतवर्ष का गौरव है!

यह स्वदेशी टेक्नोलॉजी से बना हुआ भारत का सबसे बड़ा युद्धपोत है। मुझे वह कार्यक्रम याद है, जब इसे कोच्चि में नौसेना के बेड़े में शामिल किया गया था। आज दीपावली के पावन अवसर पर यहां आकर गौरवान्वित हूं।“

“पिछली शाम INS विक्रांत पर हुआ सांस्कृतिक कार्यक्रम अविस्मरणीय रहेगा। हमारे नौसैनिक प्रतिभाशाली और पराक्रमी होने के साथ-साथ बहुत क्रिएटिव भी हैं। उनका गीत 'कसम सिंदूर की' मेरी स्मृतियों में सदा बसा रहेगा।“

“The warships which took part in today’s Steampast included INS Vikrant (the review platform), INS Vikramaditya (where I had been ten years ago for the Combined Commanders' Conference), INS Surat (which was commissioned earlier this year in Mumbai), INS Mormugao, INS Chennai (which was a part of the Bastille Day celebrations 2023 in France), INS Imphal (which took part in this year’s Mauritius National Day celebrations), INS Kolkata, INS Tushil, INS Tabar, INS Teg, INS Betwa, INS Deepak and INS Aditya.”

“The Flypast at INS Vikrant included the Chetak with flag and navy ensign, MH 60 R, Seaking, Kamov 31, Dornier, P8I and MiG 29K.”

***

MJPS/VJ