India Emerges as a Global Responsible Partner and Indian Ocean Region’s First Responder: PM Modi

The commissioning of three frontline naval combatants underscores India's unwavering commitment to building a robust and self-reliant defence sector," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that India had emerged as the First Responder across the entire Indian Ocean Region and was now known as a trusted and responsible global partner, particularly in the Global South.

"Today's India is emerging as a major maritime power in the world. India works in the spirit of development and not expansionism. It is one of the priorities of the country that the military capability of 21st century India should be more capable and modern," he said after he dedicated three frontline naval combatants INS Surat, INS Nilgiri and INS Vaghsheer to the nation after their commissioning at the Naval Dockyard.

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The commissioning of three frontline naval combatants underscores India's unwavering commitment to building a robust and self-reliant defence sector," he said.

The PM added that the commissioning of three naval combatants was a significant step towards empowering the Indian Navy of the 21st century, especially, when Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj gave new strength and vision to the Navy.

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The Prime Minister said that strengthening the nation's military capabilities to meet the requirements of the 21st century remains one of the prime priorities for India. "Whether it is land, air, water, the deep sea, or outer space, India is steadfastly safeguarding its interests across all domains. To achieve this, continuous reforms are being implemented. The establishment of the Chief of Defence Staff was a significant step in this direction.". In addition, the development of Theatre Commands has been initiated to make our armed forces stronger. That is all, he said.

The government has begun its third term with several big decisions, he added.

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We have made new policies at a fast pace, we have started new work keeping in mind the needs of the country, we are moving with the goal of development of every corner, every sector of the country," he commented.

"It is for the first time that a destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine — all three — are being commissioned together.". These front line platforms are the Made in India products. Therefore, I would like to congratulate the Indian Navy, engineers, workers, and the entire country. 15 January is also celebrated as Army Day. I salute every brave soldier who dedicates his life to protecting the country. I congratulate every hero engaged in protecting Mother India," said the Prime Minister.

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India is fast moving toward becoming the third largest economy in the world. It will also call for a large-scale demand for containers and ships. Therefore, port-led development would not only lead to a speedy growth of the economy but also give employment on a large scale. The employment rise in this area can be well seen in the increasing number of Indian seafarers," the Prime Minister added.

In 2014, India had fewer than 1.25 lakh seafarers. This number is now three lakh. Today, India proudly takes the 5th position across the world concerning the number of seafarers, he added. According to him, there are currently the construction of over 60 ships worth more than Rs 1.50 lakh crores.

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