Prime Minister Modi to rename Navy ranks ‘in line with Indian traditions’
This move symbolises India's departure from a slavery mentality, emphasised the Prime Minister.
In a significant announcement at a Navy Day event in Malvan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared the renaming of Indian Navy ranks, aligning them with Indian traditions. This move symbolizes India’s departure from a slavery mentality, emphasized the Prime Minister. During the event, he praised the appointment of a female officer to command a naval ship for the first time, highlighting the administration’s commitment to increasing women’s representation in the armed forces.
Commemorating Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Navy Day
The Prime Minister paid a heartfelt tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a 17th-century Maratha king, recognizing his vision and military strategy that acknowledged the importance of a strong naval power. The event took place in Malvan, a coastal town in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district, approximately 500km from Mumbai, near the historic Sindhudurg Fort.
Earlier, Modi extended his congratulations on Navy Day, commending the personnel’s dedication to safeguarding India’s seas. He expressed the government’s focus on expanding women’s representation in the armed forces during the assembly in Malvan.
Historical Shift in Navy Ranks and India’s Progress
The announcement of renaming navy ranks to reflect Indian traditions aligns with India’s efforts to break free from historical constraints. Modi recalled the unveiling of the Naval ensign the previous year and credited Chhatrapati Shivaji for understanding the pivotal role of naval power for a nation.
Reflecting on India’s global standing, Modi stated that the world now sees India as a ‘Vishwa Mitra’ or ‘universal friend.’ He emphasized India’s historical achievements in art, knowledge, science, and maritime capabilities. Modi proudly highlighted India’s maritime heritage, citing examples such as the Indus Valley civilization port in Lothal, Gujarat, and the maritime prowess of the Chola empire.
Maritime Development Initiatives and Global Position
The Prime Minister emphasized government-led initiatives like the ‘Sagarmala’ project and ‘Maritime Vision,’ aimed at harnessing India’s maritime potential. He highlighted the growth in the seafaring population and the commitment to boost merchant shipping. Modi acknowledged India’s rise in global economic rankings over the past decade, showcasing initiatives like the India Middle East European Corridor.
Navy Day Celebrations and Development Plans
Before Navy Day celebrations, Modi unveiled a commemorative statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort in Sindhudurg district. The event included operational demonstrations showcasing the capabilities of Indian Navy vessels, submarines, aircraft, and special forces.
The coastal town of Malvan witnessed a grand maritime display, featuring warships, submarines, and various aircraft. Prime Minister Modi reiterated his government’s commitment to Maharashtra’s development, citing initiatives like the opening of medical colleges, operational improvements at Chipi airport, and plans to support cashew farmers. He concluded by reminding everyone that Navy Day is celebrated annually on December 4 to honor the maritime force’s spirit and commemorate their achievements, notably ‘Operation Trident’ during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
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