New Delhi, February 18: President Droupadi Murmu observed the International Fleet Review held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, on Wednesday. The event features naval forces from over 70 countries.
During her address, the President highlighted that the International Fleet Review symbolizes unity, trust, and respect among nations regarding maritime traditions. Ships bearing various flags and sailors from different countries showcase a spirit of solidarity.
She emphasized that this sense of unity is encapsulated in the theme of the review, “United Through Oceans.” It sends a positive message to the global community that the commitment and determination of this collective naval power can overcome all challenges.
The President stated that India’s approach to international relations, including maritime domains, is inspired by the ideals of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.” This perspective reflects the understanding that global security and development, stability, and sustainability are only achievable through partnerships. This spirit of partnership is the cornerstone of a lasting global order. Therefore, India believes that a robust maritime framework is based on collective responsibility and collaborative action among like-minded partners.
She mentioned that the fleet review also advances India’s vision of “Oceans,” which signifies mutual and comprehensive progress for security and development at the regional level.
President Murmu affirmed that the Indian Navy is committed to safeguarding India’s maritime interests and maintaining stability in the broader maritime domain. Units of the Indian Navy deployed in the region act as reliable means of resistance and defense against threats and challenges arising at sea. During humanitarian crises and natural disasters, the Indian Navy often provides the first assistance, delivering help swiftly with compassion and efficiency. The Indian Navy also plays a crucial role in fostering goodwill among navies worldwide and building bridges of trust and friendship.
She praised the foreign naval officers and sailors from friendly nations, stating that they represent the best traditions of their respective countries and services. Their discipline, dedication, and competence are the foundations upon which collective maritime security rests.
The President stressed that their presence at the fleet review has further strengthened the bonds of trust and reaffirmed our shared commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation at sea. She expressed confidence that all navies represented at this fleet review would contribute to developing the oceans as gateways for global community development, prosperity, and overall welfare.
President Murmu, as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, inspected the fleet review from the indigenously built offshore patrol vessel INS Sumedha, which was adorned with the Ashoka emblem and flew the President’s flag at the mast.
After a guard of honor from a contingent of 150 soldiers and a 21-gun salute, the President boarded INS Sumedha and inspected a fleet of 52 ships anchored near the Visakhapatnam coast.
A total of 85 ships participated in this fleet review, including 19 foreign warships, showcasing the scale and diversity of maritime cooperation. The Indian contingent comprised 60 ships from the Indian Navy, four vessels from the Indian Coast Guard, and one ship each from the Shipping Corporation of India and the National Institute of Ocean Technology.
The review also featured three submarines from the Indian Navy, a French Atlantic maritime patrol aircraft, and over 60 aircraft, demonstrating multi-domain operational capability and coordinated maritime presence.
The President also inspected the Indian Navy’s air arm, which included a flypast of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. Following this, a mobile column of warships and submarines passed in front of the President’s yacht.
Deependra Singh Chundawat is a Senior Sub-Editor at Udaipur Kiran, specializing in a wide range of technology topics including mobile phones, applications, gaming, PCs, and wearables. Along with covering the latest tech news, he also creates engaging web stories. Passionate about emerging technologies, he stays up to date with the newest trends and enjoys reading and writing about the latest mobile launches and digital innovations.
