In a landmark event for India’s naval forces, President Droupadi Murmu embarked on a dived sortie aboard the Kalvari-class submarine, INS Vaghsheer, at the Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka. This unique experience positions President Murmu as the second Indian President to undertake such a deep-sea mission, following in the footsteps of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. The President was accompanied by the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, for this important exploration.
The sortie provided the President with firsthand insight into the submarine arm’s crucial role in India’s maritime security strategy. She learned about INS Vaghsheer’s advanced capabilities and its integral function in safeguarding the nation’s extensive coastline and maritime interests. The President was briefed on the strategic importance of underwater warfare and its evolving dynamics.
President Murmu expressed her admiration for the crew of INS Vaghsheer, commending their high levels of training, dedication, and exemplary service. She recognized the indigenous submarine as a powerful symbol of India’s self-reliance in defense technology and the Indian Navy’s consistent operational readiness. This underwater immersion complements her recent ventures into military aviation, showcasing her broad engagement with India’s defense sector.