President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu presided over the Navy Day 2025 celebrations in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday and witnessed a spectacular operational demonstration by the Indian Navy, showcasing its cutting-edge capabilities and maritime strength.
Addressing naval personnel, dignitaries, and citizens present at the event, the President said Navy Day honours the selfless service, professionalism, and supreme sacrifices of the men and women of the Indian Navy. She expressed the nation’s gratitude for their unwavering dedication, calling them the “sentinels of India’s seas.”
‘India Committed to Open, Stable and Rules-Based Oceans’
Highlighting the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), President Murmu said it remains one of the world’s most critical maritime zones, serving as a lifeline for global trade and energy flows. Positioned at the heart of this region, India carries a “special responsibility,” she noted.
Reaffirming India’s maritime doctrine, she stated, “We are committed to the idea of the oceans remaining open, stable, and rules-based. Guided by the vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, India’s approach is collaborative, not competitive.”
She emphasised India’s focus on shared maritime awareness, capacity-building, and the peaceful, lawful use of the seas.
Indian Navy: Guardian of the Seas and First Responder in Crises
The President underscored the Navy’s expanding role—from deterring threats, securing the Exclusive Economic Zone, and ensuring freedom of navigation, to combating piracy and responding to humanitarian crises across the IOR.
She commended the Navy for its swift action as the “first responder” during emergencies, including evacuation missions, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance operations. She added that new initiatives under India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision will further enhance regional maritime security and cooperation.
Navy Strengthening India’s Blue Economy and Sustainable Oceans
President Murmu highlighted the growing national focus on the Blue Economy as a key pillar of sustainable development. She said the Indian Navy plays a crucial role in this by safeguarding sea routes, protecting marine resources, combating illegal activities, and supporting maritime scientific research.
“The Navy strengthens our vision of safe, prosperous, and sustainable oceans,” she said.
Push for Self-Reliance and Modernisation
Commending the Navy’s advancements in indigenous shipbuilding, technology, and innovation, the President said she was pleased to see the service taking the lead in designing and constructing complex platforms within the country.
She expressed confidence that the Indian Navy will continue driving technological self-reliance and contribute significantly to the nation’s journey toward Viksit Bharat.
The Navy Day celebrations concluded with a powerful showcase of naval operations, reaffirming India’s maritime strength and the Navy’s readiness to protect national interests across the seas.
