Prime Minister Narendra Modi praises the Indian Armed Forces for their unity during Operation Sindoor and lauds INS Vikrant as a symbol of self-reliant India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised the Indian Armed Forces for their remarkable coordination during Operation Sindoor, saying their courage and unity forced Pakistan to surrender. Speaking to Navy personnel aboard INS Vikrant, the Prime Minister said his Diwali was made special by spending it with the soldiers who embody India’s strength and resolve.

Calling INS Vikrant a “testament to 21st-century India’s capability and commitment,” Modi said the warship reflects the nation’s progress toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat. He also credited the armed forces for achieving major success in ending Maoist insurgency, noting that districts affected by Maoist violence had dropped from 125 to just 11.

Modi expressed confidence that India was “on the verge of complete freedom from Maoist terror” and commended the police and security forces for their relentless efforts. Highlighting India’s growing defence production, he said over 40 warships and submarines have been built domestically since 2014, with global interest rising in Indian-made systems like BrahMos missiles.

Analysis: Modi’s remarks blend emotional gratitude with strategic messaging. By linking Operation Sindoor’s legacy to modern defence achievements, he reinforces India’s evolving image as a self-reliant military power. His Diwali with the Navy also sends a symbolic message of solidarity with the armed forces—underscoring that national security remains a shared celebration of courage, innovation, and unity