Panaji, Oct 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that coordination among the armed forces during ‘Operation Sindoor’ was the key factor behind Pakistan’s swift surrender. Addressing personnel during Diwali celebrations onboard INS Vikrant, the Prime Minister said the fear created by the Navy, the skill of the Air Force, and the bravery of the Army brought the enemy “to its knees within no time.”
PM Modi said INS Vikrant represents India’s growing capability to design and build its own warships. “INS Vikrant is not just a warship; it is a testimony to 21st-century India’s hard work, talent and commitment. It’s a powerful symbol of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and its commissioning marked the end of a major colonial legacy,” he said.
Highlighting the success of Operation Sindoor, Modi said, “The fear instilled by the Indian Navy, the extraordinary skill of the Air Force, and the bravery of the Army, along with their coordination, brought Pakistan on its knees. For the armed forces to be strong, self-reliance is essential.”
He noted that missiles like BrahMos and Akash proved their might during the operation, attracting global buyers. The armed forces have identified thousands of items that will no longer be imported, with most essential equipment now being produced domestically. India’s defence production has more than tripled in 11 years, crossing ₹1.5 lakh crore last year, he added.
Since 2014, Indian shipyards have delivered over 40 indigenous warships and submarines. “A domestically produced submarine or warship is now being inducted every 40 days,” the PM said. India aims to be among the world’s top defence exporters, with defence exports having increased 30-fold in the past decade, aided by start-ups and indigenous defence units.
PM Modi also lauded the Indian Coast Guard for its vital role in national defence and its coordination with the Navy to safeguard India’s vast coastline.
The Prime Minister spent a night aboard INS Vikrant, witnessing take-offs and landings of MiG-29K fighter jets and a spectacular steampast of warships and flypast by aircraft. He joined a Yoga session on the deck and shared a Diwali dinner (Bara Khana) with naval families.
“My Diwali has been special as it was spent amongst you,” he told the personnel. Modi has been celebrating Diwali with the armed forces every year since 2014.
