Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued his longstanding tradition of marking the festival of Diwali with the nation’s armed forces, this year joining Indian Navy personnel aboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, stationed off the coasts of Goa and Karwar in the Arabian Sea. The event underscored the Prime Minister’s commitment to honoring the sacrifices of military personnel, as he described the gathering as a profound affirmation of national unity and resolve.
In an address to the naval crew, PM Modi expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the festival of lights amidst the disciplined environment of the warship. “I am fortunate that this time I am celebrating this holy festival of Diwali among all you brave soldiers of the Navy,” he stated, emphasizing the unique experience of spending the night on the vessel. He likened the sun’s rays reflecting on the ocean to “Diwali lamps lit by brave soldiers,” symbolizing the enduring strength and vigilance of the armed forces.
The Prime Minister highlighted the formidable capabilities of INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, which displaces nearly 45,000 tonnes and operates a fleet of up to 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K fighters and advanced helicopters. “The name INS Vikrant alone is enough to give sleepless nights to Pakistan,” PM Modi remarked, alluding to the carrier’s role in bolstering India’s maritime security. He further praised the seamless coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force during Operation Sindoor, a precision strike against terror camps in Pakistan earlier in the year, which he credited with compelling the adversary to capitulate.
During the visit, PM Modi observed an Air Power Demonstration on the flight deck, witnessing day and night operations of MiG-29K fighters, including takeoffs and landings on the short runway. The festivities also featured a vibrant cultural program with patriotic songs, during which the Prime Minister commended the personnel for their emotional connection to national missions. “These brave soldiers have been born in this very soil, have grown and flourished in this very soil,” he noted, portraying the Navy’s spirit as a reflection of India’s collective discipline and pride.
This marks the 11th consecutive Diwali that PM Modi has spent with troops since assuming office in 2014, beginning with a visit to the Siachen Glacier. Previous celebrations have included engagements near the Indo-Pakistan border in Kutch and along the China border in Himachal Pradesh. On the occasion, he reiterated his annual message on social media, extending greetings to the nation: “May this festival of lights illuminate our lives with harmony, happiness, and prosperity. May the spirit of positivity prevail all around us.”
The event resonated widely, with world leaders and citizens across India joining in Diwali observances, from grand illuminations in Ayodhya—where over 2.6 million diyas earned two Guinness World Records—to traditional Lakshmi Puja rituals emphasizing prosperity and ethical conduct. PM Modi’s gesture serves as a poignant reminder of the armed forces’ role in safeguarding the nation’s festive joy and security.
