India Committed To Idea Of Oceans Remaining Open, Stable And Rules-Based: President Murmu

Thiruvananthapuram: “We bear a special responsibility” as India lies at the center of the Indian Ocean Region, President Droupadi Murmu said on Wednesday, asserting that the country was committed to the idea that the oceans remain “open, stable and rules-based”.

Addressing a naval operational demonstration event here, Murmu also praised the Navy for its combat capabilities and professionalism in ensuring India’s maritime security.

He also underlined that self-reliance strengthens national security and expressed confidence that the Navy will continue to develop indigenous technology and take forward India’s journey towards becoming ‘Viksit Bharat’.

The Indian Navy on Wednesday showcased its maritime prowess and multi-domain warfare capabilities in an operational demonstration held at Shangumugham Beach, off the coast of Kerala.

President Murmu attended the event organized as part of the Navy Day celebrations.

A senior naval officer said 19 large warships, including the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, a submarine, four fast response boats and 32 aircraft (fighter planes, surveillance planes and helicopters) participated in the demonstration.

In his speech, Murmu said that the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is a “highly strategic and critical maritime area”.

“This is a conduit for global energy supply and trade. We bear a special responsibility as India is positioned at the centre. We are committed to the idea that the oceans remain open, stable and rules-based,” Murmu said. he said.

“As per our vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, India’s approach is collaborative rather than competitive,” he said.

“Our country promotes collective awareness, capacity building and peaceful use of the seas,” the President said.

He emphasized that the Indian Navy is the “major actor” for the security of our seas.

From deterring threats to combating piracy, from securing our Exclusive Economic Zone to ensuring freedom of navigation, the Navy’s role extends far beyond traditional defence, Murmu said.

He also stated that the Indian Navy has selected various cities for operational demonstrations on Navy Day.

Murmu said that it is a welcome step to provide opportunities to citizens in various parts of the country to witness the excellence of our Navy.

“Our maritime heritage is not new. From Chola and Chera fleets, from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to Kunjali Marakkars, civilization comes from our memory.

“Kerala has a proud maritime heritage. Its warriors defended the coast against European invasion in the 16th century. The ancient port of Muziris was one of the important gateways through which India interacted with the world,” he said.