In a significant boost to India's maritime prowess, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday commissioned two new multi-mission stealth frigates, INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri, into the Indian Navy. The ceremony was not just a display of naval strength but also a platform for the Minister to articulate a broader vision of national security, intertwining military might with economic resilience.
The Defence Minister stated that the role of the Indian Navy extends far beyond safeguarding the nation's maritime boundaries. He positioned it as a crucial guardian of the country's economic well-being.
"The geo-strategic situation here is such that it also has the ability to directly influence our economic development," Singh said. "Our energy requirements, oil, natural gas, all depend on the security of this region to a great extent. Therefore, the role of the Navy is not only limited to the protection of the sea, but it is also a major pillar of our national economic security."
A Milestone for Self-Reliance
Hailing the indigenously built warships, Rajnath Singh framed their commissioning as a testament to the government's ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative. He noted that these vessels are a visual depiction of this dream coming true and proof of the nation's commitment and vision.
"Commissioning of INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri is a dream come true towards Atmanirbhar Bharat. I can say with confidence that both these warships will prove to be a milestone in the country's security," he affirmed.
The new frigates, equipped with state-of-the-art stealth features and a versatile arsenal, are expected to significantly enhance the Indian Navy's strength, operational reach, and resilience across the Indian Ocean Region and beyond.
A Firm Message on Cross-Border Terrorism
Addressing the recent terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, the Defence Minister sent a strong and unequivocal message. He stated that India had already given an "effective and precise response" through 'Operation Sindoor,' a reported cross-border military offensive targeting terror havens in Pakistan.
"India never believes in exhibiting strength; never attacked any country first. When our security is threatened, we know how to give an appropriate response,” he asserted, reinforcing India's stance of being a peace-loving nation that is nonetheless capable of formidable retaliation.
Reiterating India's peaceful foreign policy, he added, "India never believes in aggressive expansionism and the whole world knows that it never attacked any country before. However, when there is an attack on its security, India knows how to respond."
The commissioning of the INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri marks a pivotal moment, showcasing India's growing domestic defence capabilities while simultaneously underscoring the critical link between maritime security and the nation's economic prosperity.
Leave Your Comment