In an important announcement at the ‘Navy Day 2023’ celebrations on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared a significant shift in the Indian Navy’s ethos, emphasising Indian cultural symbols. PM Modi expressed pride in India’s heritage and announced the renaming of ranks in the Indian Navy to align with Indian culture.
PM Modi stated, “With pride in our heritage, I am proud to announce that the ranks in the Indian Navy would be renamed according to Indian culture.” He lauded the Navy’s progressive step in appointing the country’s first woman commanding officer on a naval ship. The Prime Minister expressed his happiness at the convergence of the Naval flag with the heritage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
“Inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the nation is moving forward, leaving the mentality of dependence behind,” said PM Modi. He also revealed that the epaulettes worn by Naval officers would now bear the symbol of Shivaji Maharaj’s army.
Reflecting on India’s history, PM Modi stated, “The history of India is not just the 1000-year-old slavery, defeat, and disappointment. The history of India is of victory, bravery, knowledge, science, art, and our naval expertise.” He urged the nation to move beyond the “politics of pessimism” and embrace a collective commitment to a developed India.
During the celebration at Sindhudurg Fort, PM Modi extended Navy Day greetings and acknowledged the naval legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, stating, “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj knew the importance of the power of the sea.”
PM Modi also unveiled the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort in Sindhudurg, commemorating the legendary Maratha king’s contributions.
In a broader context, PM Modi highlighted India’s role in the global arena, stating, “The world is seeing India as a ‘Vishwa Mitra.’ Today, India is setting impressive targets; our country has a glorious history of victories.”
Emphasising the nation’s commitment to gender diversity in the armed forces, PM Modi declared, “We are committed to increasing the strength of our women in the armed forces.” He acknowledged India’s focus on Blue Economy and port-led development, encouraging merchant shipping and utilising the potential of its oceans.
The ‘Navy Day 2023’ celebrations included operational demonstrations by Indian Navy ships, submarines, aircraft, and special forces at Tarkarli beach, showcasing multi-domain operations undertaken by the Indian Navy.
The event marked homage to the maritime heritage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, whose seal inspired the new Naval Ensign adopted last year with the commissioning of the first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.