Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Diwali with Indian Navy personnel aboard the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant in Goa, lauding the courage and self-reliance of India’s armed forces.

Speaking to the personnel, Modi said, “The fear generated by the Indian Navy, the extraordinary skill displayed by the Indian Air Force, the bravery of the Indian Army, and the tremendous coordination among the three forces compelled Pakistan to surrender so quickly during Operation Sindoor. Therefore, today, once again, from this sacred and heroic ground of INS Vikrant, I salute the brave personnel of all three forces.”

He stressed the importance of self-reliance in defense: “When the enemy is in front, when there is a threat of war, the side that can fight on its own strength always has the advantage. For the armed forces to be strong, their self-reliance is essential.”

Modi highlighted the deep bond between soldiers and their homeland, saying, “These brave soldiers have been born in this very soil, have grown and flourished in this very soil. Therefore, they hold the inspiration to stake their life for the honour and dignity of this soil. The strength that your life derives from the soil of India is similar to how every weapon, every equipment, and every component of ours, as it becomes more Indian, adds tremendous power to our forces.”

On the significance of INS Vikrant, he added, “Just a few months ago, we witnessed how the very name Vikrant sent waves of fear across Pakistan. Such is its might — a name that shatters the enemy’s courage even before the battle begins. This is the power of INS Vikrant. On this occasion, I especially want to salute our armed forces.”