February 18: Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday said the Indian Navy remains vigilant in safeguarding the country’s maritime interests and contributes to stability across wider maritime commerce.
Presiding over the International Fleet Review (IFR) off the coast of Visakhapatnam aboard an Indian naval warship in the Bay of Bengal, the President said the Navy is deployed in the region as a credible instrument of deterrence and defence against emerging maritime threats and challenges.
“Indian Navy is vigilant in safeguarding India’s maritime interests and is contributing to stability across wider maritime commerce,” Murmu said.
She noted that the Navy also plays a vital role in promoting goodwill and building bridges of trust, confidence and friendship with navies across the globe.
Highlighting the maritime legacy of Visakhapatnam, which houses the Eastern Naval Command, the President said the city has a glorious maritime past and that the fleet review underlines its enduring naval significance.
Expressing happiness at witnessing the impressive fleet of warships and displays by naval personnel from India and friendly countries, Murmu conveyed her compliments to the participating contingents.
She said the IFR reflects unity, trust and mutual respect among nations for maritime traditions, with ships bearing different flags and sailors from diverse countries symbolising the spirit of togetherness.
Reflecting on India’s deep and enduring relationship with the seas, stretching back centuries, the President described the oceans as pathways of commerce, connection and cultural exchange.
Referring to the festival of Bali Jatara celebrated in Cuttack during the week beginning on Karthik Purnima, she said it honours ancient sailors from present-day Odisha. The festival commemorates the maritime tradition of regular voyages to Southeast Asia since the era of the ancient Kalinga empire.
“These travels contributed to the exchange of trade and goods, ideas and values, shaping a shared cultural consciousness across the region,” she said.
Murmu added that the fleet review advances India’s vision of ‘Mahasagar’, symbolising mutual and historic advancement of security and growth across regions.