PM Modi Celebrates Diwali with Indian Navy on INS Vikrant

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the festival of Diwali in a heartfelt celebration with personnel from the Indian Navy aboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS...

PM Modi Celebrates Diwali 2025 with Indian Navy Personnel Aboard INS Vikrant

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the festival of Diwali in a heartfelt celebration with personnel from the Indian Navy aboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, stationed near Goa and Karwar in the Arabian Sea. This annual practice by the Prime Minister underscores his commitment to acknowledging the sacrifices of military personnel, labeling the gathering as a significant testament to national unity and resilience.

During his address to the naval crew, Modi conveyed his gratitude for the rare opportunity to share the festival of lights in the disciplined setting of a naval ship. “I am fortunate that this time I am celebrating this holy festival of Diwali among all you brave soldiers of the Navy,” he expressed, underscoring the unique experience of spending the Diwali night on the warship. He drew a poetic parallel between the sun’s reflections on the water and “Diwali lamps lit by brave soldiers,” which he regarded as symbols of the armed forces’ enduring strength and vigilance.

The Prime Minister took pride in the capabilities of INS Vikrant, which is India’s first indigenously constructed aircraft carrier, with a displacement of nearly 45,000 tonnes and a fleet that includes MiG-29K fighters alongside advanced helicopters. Modi remarked, “The name INS Vikrant alone is enough to give sleepless nights to Pakistan,” referring to the carrier’s strategic importance in reinforcing India’s maritime security. He also credited the seamless coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force during Operation Sindoor, a recent precision strike against terrorist camps in Pakistan, which he claimed compelled the adversary to yield.

As part of the celebrations, PM Modi observed an Air Power Demonstration on the flight deck, where he witnessed both night and day operations of the MiG-29K fighters, including their takeoffs and landings on the carrier’s short runway. The festivities included cultural performances featuring patriotic songs, during which the Prime Minister acknowledged the emotional bonds military personnel share with national missions. He remarked, “These brave soldiers have been born in this very soil, have grown and flourished in this very soil,” portraying the Navy’s spirit as a reflection of the nation’s collective discipline and pride.

This occasion marks the 11th consecutive Diwali that Modi has spent with armed forces personnel since he took office in 2014, beginning with a visit to the Siachen Glacier. His previous celebrations included engagements near the Indo-Pakistan border in Kutch and along the India-China border in Himachal Pradesh. As part of his annual greetings shared on social media, he extended wishes for harmony, happiness, and prosperity, urging the nation to embrace the spirit of positivity.

The event resonated significantly across India and attracted attention from global leaders, aligning with diverse Diwali observances. Celebrations included grand illuminations in Ayodhya, where over 2.6 million diyas set two Guinness World Records, along with traditional Lakshmi Puja rituals focusing on prosperity and ethical values. Modi’s gesture serves as a poignant reminder of the armed forces’ crucial role in ensuring the safety and joy of the nation during festive times.

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Adhidev Jasrotia

An expert in Indian defence affairs, military recruitment, and geopolitical strategy, brings a strong foundation in national security journalism. Recommended for the Indian Army with All India Rank 138.