Kolkata, June 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three indigenous naval vessels at the Syama Prasad Mukherjee Port in Kolkata on Sunday. The vessels include the advanced stealth frigate INS Dunagiri, the survey vessel (large) INS Sandhayak, and the anti-submarine shallow water craft INS Agra. Modi emphasized that this launch reflects India’s commitment to safeguarding national interests at sea.
In a post on the social media platform X, PM Modi stated that the commissioning of INS Dunagiri, INS Sandhayak, and INS Agra in Kolkata showcases India’s growing maritime capabilities. He highlighted the remarkable progress in defense manufacturing towards self-reliance, aligning with the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
The Prime Minister noted that the addition of these vessels will significantly enhance the country’s operational capabilities, improve maritime awareness, and strengthen the security of coastal waters against geopolitical threats. Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, these vessels involved extensive participation from over 200 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). With over 75% indigenous content, they stand as a testament to India’s commitment to self-reliance.
Addressing the audience, Modi remarked that this event coincides with the International Day of Yoga celebrated globally. He expressed his happiness to be on the historic land of Bengal, which has played a crucial role in shaping India’s intellectual, cultural, and national renaissance, connecting the country to the world through maritime routes. He described this occasion as a significant achievement towards a self-reliant, secure, and developed India. Modi also noted that June 21 is recognized worldwide as World Hydrography Day, making it a remarkable coincidence that India’s most advanced hydrographic survey vessel, INS Sandhayak, was commissioned on this day.
Congratulating the Indian Navy, scientists, engineers, workers, and all citizens, PM Modi stated that this achievement reflects India’s advancing technological and maritime capabilities. He underscored the importance of maritime power in the modern world, asserting that no nation can emerge as a major power without strong maritime capabilities. Development, security, and prosperity are closely linked to the oceans. Most global trade occurs via maritime routes, and vast global data networks operate beneath the oceans. He emphasized that critical minerals, deep-sea resources, and future energy sources are increasingly tied to maritime domains. The economic and strategic influence of a nation is directly linked to the strength of its maritime sector.
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