Modi Celebrates Diwali on INS Vikrant, Highlights Aatmanirbhar Bharat

Panaji, Oct 20 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Diwali with naval personnel aboard the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, highlighting it as a symbol of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' or self-reliant India. Modi reached the location on Sunday evening and discreetly boarded the indigenous aircraft carrier off Goa's coast, according to sources.

Onboard INS Vikrant, the Prime Minister visited the flight deck, surrounded by MiG 29K fighter aircraft. He observed the takeoff and landing of MiG 29 jets on the carrier's short runway, both during daylight and at night. Additionally, Modi enjoyed a vibrant cultural program where Indian Navy officers and sailors performed various patriotic songs, including one written to celebrate the success of the Indian Armed Forces during Operation Sindoor.

Sources noted that Modi was deeply touched by the experience. He later dined with naval personnel's extended family during a Bara Khana.

On Monday morning, Modi participated in a Yoga session on INS Vikrant's deck and witnessed a spectacular display of warships and a flypast by aircraft. He delivered an inspiring address to the Navy personnel and distributed sweets.

"INS Vikrant is not just a warship. It signifies 21st-century India's hard work, talent, impact, and commitment," Modi expressed. He also mentioned the Brahmos missile, stating that it incites fear in some and attracts interest from many countries keen to purchase it.

"Spending last night onboard INS Vikrant is hard to put into words. I sensed the immense energy and enthusiasm among all of you. Listening to you sing patriotic songs and narrate Operation Sindoor in your melodies, no words can fully encapsulate the feelings of a soldier on a battlefield," he shared. "My Diwali has been special, spent amongst you," he added.

Commissioned in 2022, INS Vikrant, India's first home-grown aircraft carrier, reinforces India's naval capabilities. Known as a 'city on the move,' it is India's most extensive warship and the country's second operational aircraft carrier after the Russian-built INS Vikramaditya.

Since 2014, the Prime Minister has celebrated Diwali with India's armed forces.

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