In a significant demonstration of India's growing maritime capabilities and commitment to self-reliance in defence, President Droupadi Murmu undertook a sea sortie aboard the indigenously built submarine INS Vagsheer. The event, which took place on Saturday, December 28, 2024, off the coast of Karnataka, underscored the nation's strategic naval preparedness.
A Presidential Endorsement of Indigenous Defence
The President's sortie on the Kalvari-class submarine, which is the sixth and final boat of its class, sent a powerful message. INS Vagsheer represents the pinnacle of India's Project-75, constructed at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai in collaboration with France's Naval Group. By personally experiencing the vessel's operations, President Murmu highlighted the government's focus on the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) initiative in the critical defence sector.
During the sortie, the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces received detailed briefings on the submarine's advanced combat systems and operational capabilities. The submarine, named after a deep-sea sand fish known for its stealth, is a diesel-electric attack vessel designed for a variety of roles, including anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and mine-laying.
Strengthening Coastal Security and Morale
The presidential visit was not merely symbolic. It served to boost the morale of the naval personnel and the engineers and workers behind the submarine's construction. President Murmu's engagement with the crew provided a unique opportunity for the armed forces to showcase their professionalism and readiness directly to the nation's highest constitutional authority.
This event also placed a spotlight on India's coastal security architecture, particularly along the vital western seaboard. The sortie from Karnataka reinforces the strategic importance of naval assets in safeguarding national interests in the Indian Ocean Region, a critical maritime highway for global trade.
Strategic Implications and Future Trajectory
The sea sortie by President Murmu on INS Vagsheer carries profound strategic weight. It comes at a time when India is actively modernizing its naval fleet to address evolving security challenges. The successful induction and operationalization of all six Kalvari-class submarines mark a major milestone for the Indian Navy and the country's defence industrial base.
The event signals India's resolve to develop and deploy cutting-edge, homegrown military technology. It projects an image of a confident nation capable of designing, building, and operating complex weapon platforms. This visit is likely to further accelerate projects under the Strategic Partnership model, encouraging greater private sector participation in defence manufacturing.
In conclusion, President Droupadi Murmu's voyage on INS Vagsheer was a multifaceted event. It was a tribute to indigenous engineering, a morale booster for the armed forces, and a clear statement of India's maritime ambitions. As the country continues to fortify its naval strength, such endorsements from the highest office play a crucial role in shaping public perception and policy focus towards a robust and self-sufficient defence ecosystem.
