India is committed to the idea of the oceans remaining “open, stable and rules-based”, President Droupadi Murmu said here on Wednesday, drawing attention to the strategic and critical importance of the Indian Ocean Region as a maritime space.
Ms. Murmu was speaking at an Operational Demonstration organised by the Indian Navy at Shanghumughom beachfront here in connection with this year’s Navy Day celebrations. The Indian Ocean Region, the President noted, is a conduit for global energy supplies and trade. Being positioned at its centre, India bears a special responsibility, she said.
“We are committed to the idea of the oceans remaining open, stable and rules-based. As per our vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, India’s approach is collaborative rather than competitive. Our country is promoting shared awareness, capacity building, and the peaceful use of the seas,” she said.
In this context, the Navy stands as the principal actor for the security of the seas, its role extending well beyond traditional defence, the President said. This role, she said, extends from deterring threats to combating piracy, from securing our Exclusive Economic Zone to ensuring freedom of navigation.
The Navy also plays an important role in India’s plans to harness the potential of Blue Economy as a driver of sustainable development, Ms. Murmu said.
“By securing sea routes, protecting marine resources, preventing illegal activities, and supporting maritime research, the Navy strengthens our vision of safe, prosperous, and sustainable oceans,” she said.
Indian Navy performing Continuity Drill during the Navy Day Operational Ddemonstration at Shangumughom in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday.
| Photo Credit:
NIRMAL HARINDRAN
The President also underscored the need for the Navy to achieve self-reliance. She observed that modernisation, as well as development and adaptation of new technologies, is crucial for the combat readiness of any armed force.
“Self-reliance strengthens national security. It also creates employment and sets in motion technological innovation. I am confident that the Indian Navy will continue to develop indigenous technologies and contribute to achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat,” she said.
The over-three-hour demonstration saw participation by various platforms of the Navy, including the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, destroyers, frigates, the attack submarine INS Shishumar, and the sailships INS Sudarshini and INS Tarangini. Naval fighter aircraft MiG 29K, Advanced Jet Trainer Hawk, Dorniers, Chetak and Seaking helicopters and naval units including MARCOS, the Special forces of the Navy, participated in the Operational Demo attended by thousands.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi said the Navy stands as a combat-ready, cohesive and future-ready force for securing India’s maritime interests. The seas, he said, will play a central role in catalysing India’s journey to becoming a developed and prosperous country.
Indian Navy’s Chetak helicopter performing rescue drill during Navy Day operational demonstration at Shanghumughom in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday.
| Photo Credit:
NIRMAL HARINDRAN / THE HINDU
Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and Minister of State for Petroleum, Natural Gas and Tourism Suresh Gopi were among those present.
Earlier, the President was received at the airport by Mr. Arlekar and Mr. Vijayan by 4.25 p.m. Ms. Murmu then proceeded to inspect a 150-man Guard of Honour at the IAF Forward Base Support Unit. Simultaneously, the Naval destroyer INS Kolkata presented at 21-gun salute off Shangumughom in her honour.
Published – December 03, 2025 10:21 pm IST
