KARWAR, DECEMBER 28: In a landmark moment for India’s maritime defense, President Droupadi Murmu undertook a dived sortie onboard the indigenous Kalvari-class submarine, INS Vaghsheer, on the Western Seaboard today.
Accompanied by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, the President embarked the vessel at the Karwar Naval Harbour in Karnataka. During the two-hour underwater journey, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces witnessed firsthand the operational capabilities of the submarine, including complex maneuvers and successful firing demonstrations.
This historic mission makes Droupadi Murmu only the second President in Indian history, after APJ Abdul Kalam, to travel beneath the waves in a Navy submarine.
Following the sortie, the President expressed her profound admiration for the naval personnel, noting that the experience of sailing and diving with the crew was deeply special. In the visitor’s book, she praised the exceptional preparedness and dedication of the officers and sailors, stating that their discipline and enthusiasm serve as a guarantee that the Indian Navy remains combat-ready against any threat under all circumstances.
She highlighted that the operations carried out by INS Vaghsheer perfectly align with its motto, “Veerta Varchasva Vijaya” (Valour, Pre-eminence, Victory), reinforcing the strength of India’s indigenous defense manufacturing.This underwater embarkation follows the President’s previous engagement with the Navy in November 2024, when she reviewed operational demonstrations onboard the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.
By experiencing the high-pressure environment of a submarine, the President underscored the government’s commitment to modernizing the silent arm of the Navy and boosting the morale of those serving in one of the most challenging operational settings. The successful mission stands as a testament to India’s growing self-reliance in naval technology and its readiness to protect its sovereign waters.
