In a significant event highlighting India's naval prowess, President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to undertake a submarine sea sortie from the naval base in Karwar, Karnataka, on December 28, 2025. This visit underscores the strategic importance of the Indian Navy's western command and the President's role as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
Security and Preparations for the Presidential Visit
In view of the high-profile visit, the district administration of Uttara Kannada has implemented stringent security measures. The Deputy Commissioner has issued an official order prohibiting all fishing activity along an 18-kilometer coastal stretch from Karwar to Majali. This ban is a standard security protocol for such visits to ensure the safety and smooth passage of the VVIP convoy and naval assets.
Details of the Naval Engagement
The sortie, scheduled for Saturday, will see President Murmu embarking on a submarine operated by the Indian Navy. The exact class and name of the submarine have not been disclosed for operational security reasons. Karwar, home to the expansive INS Kadamba naval base, is a key maritime defense hub on India's western coast. This visit is seen as a morale booster for the naval personnel stationed there and a demonstration of the nation's underwater defense capabilities.
Impact and Significance
The presidential submarine sortie is a rare and symbolic event. It brings national attention to the strategic naval infrastructure in Karnataka and the dedication of the armed forces. While the temporary fishing ban may cause a brief disruption for local fishermen, it is a necessary step for a visit of this magnitude. The event reinforces the commitment to strengthening India's maritime security and showcases the operational readiness of the Indian Navy directly to the country's highest constitutional authority.
