'Witnessed an air power demo showcasing precision, prowess: PM Modi celebrates Diwali aboard INS Vikrant

Mumbai: Continuing his tradition of celebrating Diwali with the the armed forces, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spent a day on board Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant along the Goa-Karwar coast in the Arabian Sea during which he witnessed an array of operations including an air power demonstration, enjoyed the celebratory ‘bara khana’ meal tradition, heated rendition of ‘kasam sindoor ki’ and performed yoga.

“Will always cherish the cultural programme on board INS Vikrant last evening. The naval personnel are truly creative and versatile. They penned a song ‘Kasam Sindoor Ki’ which will remain etched in my memory,” Modi said.

Modi landed on the INS Vikrant, the flagship, post-noon Sunday and was aboard the carrier till around noon on Monday, when he also addressed the officers and personnel of the armed forces.

Photos and videos of the day-long engagement went viral on social media platforms.

“India’s tradition regarding strength and capability has always been rooted in the principle—“gyanaya daanaya cha rakshanaya,” meaning our science, prosperity, and power are dedicated to the service and protection of humanity,” Modi said amid thunderous applause.

"People love celebrating Diwali with their families. And so do I, which is why every year I meet our army and security personnel who keep our nation safe. Happy to be among our brave naval personnel on the western seaboard off Goa and Karwar on Indian Naval ships with INS Vikrant as the flagship,” he said.

About the celebratory meal, the PM said: “Bara Khana is an integral part of the armed forces traditions. At INS Vikrant last evening, I took part in the Bara Khana with naval personnel.”

On the operations that he witnessed, he said: “Witnessed an awe-inspiring air power demo on INS Vikrant, showcasing precision and prowess. The take-off and landing of MiG-29 fighters on a short runway, both in daylight and in the dark night, was a breathtaking display of skill, discipline and technological excellence.”

Recalling the moment when INS Vikrant was handed over to the nation, Modi stated that at the time, he had remarked Vikrant was grand, immense, panoramic, unique and exceptional. “Vikrant is not merely a warship; it is a testament to 21st-century India’s hard work, talent, impact, and commitment”, he said and reminded that on the very day the nation received the indigenously built INS Vikrant, the Indian Navy renounced a major symbol of colonial legacy. He highlighted that inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Navy adopted a new flag.

“INS Vikrant today stands as a powerful symbol of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Made in India”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, emphasising that the indigenously built INS Vikrant, slicing through the ocean, reflects India’s military prowess.

“Just a few months ago, Vikrant’s very name had disrupted the sleep of Pakistan,” he said, adding that Vikrant’s name alone is enough to put an end to the enemy’s audacity.