A Country Can Talk Of Peace Only When It Can Protect Itself: PM Modi

Prime Minister Modi on Sunday commissioned three indigenously built warships into the Indian Navy, asserting that national security and lasting peace depend on a country’s ability to defend itself and safeguard its maritime interests.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Kolkata, the Prime Minister inducted the stealth guided missile frigate INS Dunagiri, survey vessel INS Sanshodhak and anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft INS Agray.

Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd built the three vessels and delivered them together on March 30.

Emphasising the strategic importance of the maritime domain, Prime Minister Modi said no nation can achieve sustained economic growth without becoming a capable maritime power. He noted that oceans support trade, undersea communication networks and access to critical minerals, making maritime strength essential for future development.

The Prime Minister said the commissioning of the three vessels reflected India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing and shipbuilding.

Referring to the earlier induction of the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, he said India has demonstrated its capability to design and build advanced naval platforms domestically.

According to official details, INS Dunagiri has nearly 75 per cent indigenous content, while INS Sanshodhak and INS Agray contain more than 80 per cent indigenous components.

Prime Minister Modi said Indian skills, resources and technology built the vessels. He added that the country aims to emerge as a builder rather than merely a buyer of defence equipment.

Highlighting the economic impact of the sector, PM Modi said more than 200 MSMEs contributed to the construction of the three warships.

Shipbuilding, the Prime Minister added, supports a wide ecosystem involving steel, electronics and component manufacturers while generating significant employment opportunities. He also noted that Rs 70,000 crore has been earmarked for shipbuilding and that efforts are underway to modernise ports and develop multi-modal logistics networks.

Defence Exports

Prime Minister Modi said India’s defence exports have risen from about Rs 700 crore in 2014 to nearly Rs 40,000 crore today, with Indian defence products now reaching more than 80 countries. He also acknowledged West Bengal’s contribution to the maritime sector, citing the state’s skilled workforce and shipbuilding capabilities.

Among those present were Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Chief of the Naval Staff, Governor RN Ravi, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and GRSE Chairman and Managing Director Cmde PR Hari (Retd).

Admiral Swaminathan said INS Dunagiri reached completion in 33 per cent less time than the previous frigate of the same class. He also praised private shipyards for their contribution to projects such as INS Agray.

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