Modi also mentioned the commissioning of the Vagsheer submarine, the sixth in the P75 class, which follows the earlier commissioning of the first submarine, Kalvari. “These new frontier platforms will enhance both India’s security and progress,” he said.”India is today recognised as a reliable and responsible partner globally, especially in the Global South,” stated the Prime Minister. He added that India views the defence and security of the entire region as its responsibility.The Prime Minister underlined the importance of maritime nations like India in shaping global security, economic progress, and geopolitical dynamics.He stressed the need to protect territorial waters, ensure freedom of navigation, and secure trade supply lines and sea routes, which are crucial for economic progress and energy security.He expressed satisfaction with India’s efforts to invest in new shipping routes and sea lanes of communication, saying, “India has emerged as the first responder in the Indian Ocean Region.”Modi also noted the strengthening of economic cooperation with ASEAN, Australia, Gulf countries, and African nations, attributing this to India’s growing presence and capabilities in the IOR.The Prime Minister highlighted the Navy’s significant adoption of Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), noting that over 5,000 items and equipment used by the armed forces would no longer be imported.He lauded the Make in India initiative and acknowledged the crucial role of Mazagon Dockyard in building naval platforms. “Over the past decade, 33 ships and seven submarines have been inducted into the Navy, with 39 out of 40 naval vessels being built in Indian shipyards. This includes the majestic INS Vikrant aircraft carrier and nuclear submarines like INS Arihant and INS Arighaat,” he stated.
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