Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to the Eastern Naval Command at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, on June 14, 2024, marked an important milestone in his second consecutive term as Defence Minister. This visit, his first outstation visit after assuming office, underlined the government’s commitment to strengthening India’s maritime security and enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy.
During his visit, Singh embarked on INS Jalashwa for a ‘Day at Sea’, a program designed to provide a firsthand experience of the Navy’s operational readiness and capabilities. Accompanied by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi and Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Singh witnessed dynamic operations by various ships, submarines, and aircraft of the Command. These operations showcased the Indian Navy’s combat capability and preparedness to tackle maritime threats effectively.
Interacting with officers and sailors of the Eastern Fleet, Singh lauded the Indian Navy for its operational readiness and its role as the first responder in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). He emphasized India’s commitment to a peaceful and stable Indo-Pacific region, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Security And Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). Singh reiterated that India stands firm in ensuring that no nation suppresses another in the region, and that friendly countries can progress together in a secure environment.
Singh also praised the Indian Navy’s humanitarian efforts, highlighting the daring rescue operation in March 2024. During this operation, the Navy freed 23 Pakistani nationals from Somali pirates, showcasing the Navy’s commitment to humanity and its values of assisting those in need, irrespective of their nationality.
The minister emphasized the importance of securing free navigation, a rule-based world order, and peace and stability in the IOR. He acknowledged the Navy’s crucial role in securing India’s maritime borders and promoting peace and prosperity in the region. Singh noted that India’s commercial interests are closely linked with the IOR, and the Navy plays a vital role in securing these interests while achieving broader national objectives.
Looking ahead, Singh highlighted the government’s focus on further strengthening maritime security and enhancing India’s naval presence in the IOR. He underlined that India’s Navy is continuously evolving and growing stronger, supported by expanding industrial infrastructure and modernization efforts. He reassured that the government is committed to safeguarding national interests and ensuring the security of India’s maritime borders.
His visit to the Eastern Naval Command underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing India’s maritime capabilities and securing its strategic interests in the IOR.