PM Modi witnesses Air Power Demo with MiG 29 fighters onboard INS Vikrant, celebrates Diwali with Navy personnel
Panaji, October 20
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali on Monday in the company of India's naval personnel on the western seaboard off Goa and Karwar.
Ahead of his visit, PM Modi had left for Goa in a discreet manner from Delhi on Sunday evening. From there, he went to INS Vikrant off the coast of Goa. This entire journey and visit was done in a very discreet manner.
While onboard INS Vikrant, PM Modi had an extensive set of engagements. He went to the Flightdeck, surrounded by the MiG 29K fighters.
The Prime Minister witnessed the Air Power Demo, as the MiG 29 fighters tookoff and landed on a short runway, both at day and in the dark night.
Sharing a video clip of the Air Power Demo on X, he wrote, "Highlights from INS Vikrant, including the Air Power Demo, a vibrant cultural programme and more..."
He witnessed a vibrant cultural programme where the officers and sailors of the Indian Navy sang various patriotic songs, including a song specially written by them to commemorate the success of Indian Armed Forces in Operation Sindoor.
PM Modi had dinner with the extended family of naval personal during the Bara Khana.
On Monday morning he joined a Yoga Session on the deck of INS Vikrant. He witnessed a spectacular Steampast and Flypast as well. He the delivered an inspiring address to the Navy personnel onboard INS Vikrant and also fed them sweets.
The Prime Minister referred to the Indian Armed Forces as "his family" as he kept with his annual tradition over the previous 11 years to celebrate Diwali with the armed forces of the country.
During his address, he said, "It has become a habit of mine to celebrate Diwali with my family, and that's why every year I come to celebrate Diwali with my family," he said.
PM Modi said that he is "fortunate" to celebrate Diwali with Indian soldiers.
"Today, on one side, I have infinite horizons, infinite sky, and on the other side, I have this giant, INS Vikrant, embodying infinite powers. The glow of the sun's rays on the ocean's waters is like the Diwali lamps lit by brave soldiers... I am fortunate that this time I am celebrating this holy festival of Diwali among all you brave soldiers of the Navy," the Prime Minister said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
INS Vikrant is our pride! Seeing our indigenous aircraft carrier hosting such demonstrations fills me with immense pride. Jai Hind! 🚀
While I appreciate the gesture, I hope the focus remains on strengthening our naval capabilities rather than just photo opportunities. Our armed forces deserve consistent support.
The cultural program and yoga session sound amazing! It's wonderful to see our armed forces maintaining both physical fitness and cultural traditions. What a perfect Diwali celebration!
Operation Sindoor mentioned in the patriotic songs - that's a nice touch! Our Navy's achievements deserve to be celebrated and remembered. Salute to our brave hearts! ðŸ™
The discreet travel shows good security protocol. MiG 29 operations from INS Vikrant demonstrate our growing naval aviation capabilities. Impressive progress in our defense sector!
Feeding sweets to the Navy personnel - such a heartwarming Indian tradition! This is what makes our culture special. Wishing all our armed forces a very happy and safe Diwali! 🪔
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.