India Boosts Naval Power: 3 Indigenous Warships Commissioned!
India Boosts Naval Power: 3 Indigenous Warships Commissioned!
PM Modi commissions INS Dunagiri, Sanshodhak, and Agray in Kolkata, marking a major leap in India's self-reliance and maritime defense capabilities. #MakeInIndia
In a monumental stride towards bolstering India's naval strength and self-reliance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently commissioned three indigenously built warships in Kolkata. This significant event underscores the nation's commitment to the 'Make in India' initiative and its growing prowess in defense manufacturing.
The three vessels, each serving a unique strategic purpose, are the INS Dunagiri, a stealth frigate; the INS Sanshodhak, a survey ship; and the INS Agray, an anti-submarine craft. Their integration into the Indian Navy's fleet is expected to significantly enhance maritime warfare capabilities, focusing on layered awareness and robust combat power, particularly in the increasingly vital Indian Ocean region.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi highlighted the crucial role played by Medium, Small, and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs) in this endeavor. He revealed that over 200 MSMEs contributed to the construction of these three ships, thereby generating substantial employment opportunities. He also noted the transformative reforms in shipbuilding, repairs, and recycling sectors, alongside a substantial ₹70,000 crore package announced for the shipping industry.
The Prime Minister emphasized India's remarkable shift from being a major defense importer to a burgeoning defense exporter. He stated that the country's total defense production, which stood at around ₹40,000 crore in 2014, has now soared to ₹1,80,000 crore. Similarly, defense exports have witnessed an exponential rise from merely ₹700 crore in 2014 to nearly ₹40,000 crore, with Indian defense equipment now being supplied to approximately 80 nations. This dramatic growth is a testament to the government's prioritization of self-reliance in defense since 2014.
Modi also spoke about Bengal's rich maritime history and its pivotal role in India's future 'blue economy,' maritime manufacturing, logistics, and coastal development. He expressed optimism that the progress witnessed over the past 12 years is just the beginning, signaling a determined path towards greater self-reliance and national security for India.
