Visakhapatnam : Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh attended a Barakhana organised by the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam on October 5, where he interacted with Indian Navy personnel and their families and highlighted the Navy’s growing maritime capabilities, indigenous strength and strategic role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
Commending naval personnel for their unwavering commitment to national security, Shri Rajnath Singh also acknowledged the courage, dedication and sacrifices of their families, whose support enables personnel to discharge their duties effectively.
Indian Navy Emerging as a Powerful Maritime Force
Addressing the gathering, the Raksha Mantri highlighted the Indian Navy’s emergence as a powerful maritime force and its ability to respond decisively to challenges facing the nation. He noted that the Navy’s capabilities are increasingly recognised across the Indo-Pacific and praised its personnel for remaining steadfast in demanding operational conditions while securing India’s maritime boundaries.
Recalling the Navy’s record of valour, Shri Rajnath Singh referred to its decisive role during the 1971 War, particularly Operation Trident, when Indian naval forces struck Karachi harbour. He said the operation demonstrated the Navy’s ability not only to safeguard India’s maritime frontiers but also to project power and undertake offensive operations when required.
Focus on Indigenous Naval Capability
Emphasising India’s transformation into a maritime power, Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the Navy’s efforts to keep pace with the changing security environment of the 21st century.
He pointed to the development and induction of advanced and indigenous platforms, including indigenous aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, stealth frigates and Scorpène-class submarines. The Raksha Mantri stressed that the strength of the Indian Navy extends beyond ships, submarines and advanced technology, and fundamentally rests on the professionalism, patriotism, courage and commitment of its personnel. He underlined India’s endeavour to ensure that its waters reflect the nation’s maritime strength, its warships embody Indian technology and its naval operations reflect the country’s growing confidence and self-reliance.
Oceans as an Avenue for Prosperity
Calling for a broader maritime vision, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasised the need for India to move forward with the philosophy of “advancing from the seas towards prosperity and power.”
He said oceans should be viewed not only as maritime boundaries requiring protection but also as an avenue for economic development, strategic influence and national prosperity.
Tribute to Naval Personnel and Families
Describing naval personnel as heroes and an inspiration to the youth, Shri Rajnath Singh expressed confidence that their continued dedication would contribute to India’s emergence as a stronger, more prosperous and self-reliant nation. He also highlighted the important role of families of Defence Forces personnel, noting that while naval personnel remain deployed at sea in service of the nation, their families shoulder responsibilities at home and provide the support and strength necessary for them to perform their duties. The Raksha Mantri described the service of defence personnel and the sacrifices of their families as a valuable national asset.
Barakhana Celebrates Camaraderie and Bond
Speaking about the informal and familial spirit of the Barakhana, Shri Rajnath Singh said such occasions provide an opportunity to strengthen the bond between Defence Forces personnel, their families and leadership. He observed that food serves as an expression of affection and togetherness, with people traditionally inviting those with whom they share a special bond to their homes for a meal. In the same spirit, he said the Barakhana symbolised the deep relationship between the Defence Forces and the nation, bringing everyone together as one larger defence family. The occasion reflected the fraternity, camaraderie and sense of belonging that bind Defence Forces personnel, their families and leadership.