Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali 2025 aboard India’s indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant off the Goa coast. The event featured a stunning MiG-29K fighter jet flypast, a vibrant cultural program, yoga session on deck, and spirited interactions with naval personnel, underscoring India’s strength and self-reliance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Diwali 2025 in a unique and grand fashion aboard the indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, anchored off the coast of Goa. Upholding his tradition of spending the festival with India’s armed forces, PM Modi joined naval officers and sailors in celebrating the festival of lights amid the serene yet powerful backdrop of the Arabian Sea.
Key Highlights of the Celebrations
PM Modi witnessed a breathtaking air power demonstration, watching MiG-29K fighter jets take off and land on INS Vikrant’s short flight deck both by day and night, exemplifying the prowess of India’s naval aviation.
A vibrant cultural programme showcased heartfelt patriotic songs performed by the naval personnel, including “Kasam Sindoor Ki,” a special composition commemorating the success of Operation Sindoor.
The PM actively took part in a morning yoga session on the ship’s deck, emphasizing wellness alongside duty, and participated in a traditional Bara Khana dinner with naval families.
He lauded INS Vikrant as a “floating fortress” and a proud symbol of Aatma Nirbhar Bharat, India’s path to self-reliance, highlighting its 76% indigenous content and its significance as a stronghold of India’s naval might.
PM Modi expressed deep admiration for the crew, referring to them as his “family” and praised their courage and dedication in safeguarding the nation’s waters.
Strategic and Symbolic Significance
INS Vikrant, commissioned in 2022, stands as India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier with the capacity to operate 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K fighters, Kamov helicopters, and fighter jets. It symbolizes India’s strides in defense manufacturing and maritime security. The Diwali celebration onboard was not only a festive occasion but also an affirmation of India’s military strength and technological excellence.
The Prime Minister’s visit also included witnessing a steampast and flypast by multiple warships and helicopters, underscoring the readiness and operational capability of the Western Naval Fleet.
Sources: Times of India, NDTV, India TV News, Economic Times, PM India Official Twitter