On a striking backdrop of sea and sky, Narendra Modi celebrated Deepavali aboard the indigenously-built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant off the coast of Goa and Karwar, continuing his tradition of marking the festival with India’s armed forces. Addressing the naval personnel and their families, the Prime Minister described the Vikrant not just as a warship but “a testimony to 21st-century India’s hard work, talent, impact and commitment.” He also highlighted the seamless coordination of the Indian Navy, Indian Air Force and Indian Army during Operation Sindoor, saying that their combined prowess “forced Pakistan to surrender swiftly.” The occasion was marked by a cultural programme, naval flight-deck demonstrations featuring MiG-29K jets and a dinner with naval families aboard the carrier. 

Emphasising India’s defence self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and aspiration to be a major exporter of defence equipment, Modi reiterated the Vikrant’s symbolic stature: a home-grown achievement in shipbuilding and national security. 

In this Deepavali celebration at sea, the message was clear: India’s defence capabilities have matured, its services stand united, and its resolve remains unshaken.