President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several Union ministers on Thursday extended greetings to Indian Navy personnel on the occasion of Navy Day.
Navy Day is observed every year on December 4 to mark the Indian Navy’s role in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, especially the success of Operation Trident, during which Indian forces destroyed four Pakistani vessels including PNS Khaibar.
President Droupadi Murmu saluted the Navy personnel, veterans and their families.
In her message, she said “Warm greetings to Indian Navy personnel, veterans and their families on Navy Day! The nation salutes the brave men and women who safeguard our maritime borders and national interests with courage, vigilance and unwavering commitment. From securing trade routes and strengthening the blue economy to leading humanitarian missions, the Indian Navy embodies discipline, compassion and responsibility.”
PM Modi also hailed the courage and determination of the Indian Navy.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Navy Day greetings to all personnel of the Indian Navy. Our Navy is synonymous with exceptional courage and determination. They safeguard our shores and uphold our maritime interests. In the recent years, our Navy has focussed on self-reliance and modernisation. This has enhanced our security apparatus.”
“I can never forget this year’s Diwali, which I spent with Naval personnel on board INS Vikrant. Wishing the Indian Navy the very best for their endeavours ahead,” he added.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah described the Navy as the “citadel of our pride” and praised the force for protecting the nation’s maritime frontiers.
He said, “Warm greetings to the warriors of the Indian Navy on Navy Day 2025. The Indian Navy is the citadel of our pride that stands on the ocean bulwarking the nation from every threat with invincible valor and shielding our growth through maritime routes. The golden saga of patriotism they have scripted with ultimate sacrifice will inspire generations of warriors. Tributes to the warriors of the Navy who laid down their lives for the nation.”
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed Indian Navy’s crucial role in safeguarding maritime interests while advancing self-reliance under Aatmanirbharta.
He said, “On the occasion of Navy Day, I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to all personnel and families of the Indian Navy. As the largest resident naval power in the Indian Ocean, the Navy continues to uphold India’s maritime interests with valour, vigilance & commitment to Aatmanirbharta, and anchors India’s journey towards ‘Viksit Bharat’. The high standards of professionalism and commitment showcased by our Navy and our naval personnel over the last year, give me immense confidence that the Indian Navy stands ready to safeguard and advance our national maritime interests. I wish the Indian Navy every success in all its endeavours.”
As part of the Navy Day celebrations on Wednesday, the Indian Navy conducted an ‘Operational Demonstration’ off the Thiruvananthapuram coast in Kerala. The event showcased the force’s multi-domain capabilities and operational readiness. President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, witnessed the display from Shangumugham Beach.
The demonstration featured 19 major warships, including INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri, a submarine, four fast intervention vessels, and 32 aircraft – comprising fighter jets, surveillance aircraft and helicopters. Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, and other senior officials were also present.