‘Symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat’: PM Modi highlights INS Mahendragiri in Mann Ki Baat

PM Modi Highlights INS Mahendragiri as Symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat

Theindiapostdaily.com – In the 136th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the commissioning of INS Mahendragiri, describing the stealth frigate as a powerful emblem of India’s journey toward self-reliance in defence. The warship, built entirely within Indian shores, stands as a living proof of the nation’s growing capabilities in indigenous military technology and manufacturing excellence.

A Triumph of Indigenous Engineering

During his nationwide address, the Prime Minister underscored the significance of this naval achievement. He explained that INS Mahendragiri was not merely assembled in India, but was conceived, designed, and constructed through the combined efforts of Indian scientists, engineers, and shipbuilders. This comprehensive domestic development process ensures that the vessel truly represents Indian ingenuity.

“This modern warship has been designed in India and made in India. More than 75 per cent indigenous content has been used in this. This is a symbol of the growing strength of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’,” the Prime Minister stated during his broadcast.

The prestigious commissioning ceremony took place on July 11 in Visakhapatnam, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh serving as the chief guest. The frigate carries an impressive array of weapons systems, including supersonic surface-to-surface missiles, medium-range surface-to-air missiles, and sophisticated anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Its advanced stealth features and network-centric combat systems place it among the most modern vessels in the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet.

Expanding Horizons in Defence Technology

Beyond the warship’s achievements, the Prime Minister used the occasion to highlight India’s broader technological progress. He emphasized that the country is simultaneously strengthening its scientific infrastructure while upgrading its military preparedness across multiple domains.

Modi specifically acknowledged the remarkable contributions of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). He pointed to two major successes achieved within a short timeframe: the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR-120) and the Kusha long-range surface-to-air missile system. These developments demonstrate India’s capacity to create cutting-edge defence solutions independently.

“This month, DRDO also successfully tested the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket. This success is the result of the collective efforts of our scientists and engineers. Just 2-3 days ago, DRDO also successfully tested the Kusha missile,” he remarked.

International Recognition and Export Growth

The Prime Minister noted that India’s defence achievements are now being recognized globally. He highlighted the country’s growing presence in defence exports and strengthened partnerships with friendly nations around the world. His recent visit to Indonesia proved particularly fruitful, as agreements were signed for the supply of BrahMos and Astra missiles to the Southeast Asian nation.

“Today, whether it’s defence production, defence exports, or political cooperation with friendly countries, India is constantly reaching new heights,” he affirmed.

According to the Prime Minister, international confidence in Indian defence technology continues to grow steadily. This expanding trust opens new opportunities for Indian manufacturers and strengthens strategic relationships with partner nations.

Honoring the Heroes of Kargil

Concluding his Mann Ki Baat episode, PM Modi paid tribute to the brave soldiers who fought in the 1999 Kargil War. He marked Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26, describing it as a date that every Indian remembers without needing to consult a calendar.

“There are certain dates in our lives for which we do not need to look at the calendar. Today, July 26, is one such date. Today is the Kargil Vijay Diwas. This day fills us with pride and reminds us of the extraordinary courage of our brave soldiers,” he said.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the sacrifices of Kargil veterans would continue to inspire future generations of Indians. He also mentioned the Shaurya Vijay Yatra, which began on July 14 from the National War Memorial in New Delhi. This meaningful journey will end at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, carrying the message “One ride, one nation, one salute” across the country.