President Droupadi Murmu has reinforced her connection with India’s defense forces by undertaking a dived sortie aboard the indigenous Kalvari-class submarine, INS Vaghsheer. The historic event took place at the Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka, showcasing the President’s commitment to understanding the nation’s maritime defense capabilities. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi joined the President for this significant underwater journey.
This experience is particularly notable as it’s the second time an Indian President has been on a dived submarine sortie, with the first being Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. During her time on INS Vaghsheer, President Murmu received comprehensive briefings on the submarine’s strategic significance, its advanced operational systems, and its pivotal role in safeguarding India’s sea lanes. She expressed her admiration for the crew’s professionalism and dedication, recognizing the submarine as a prime example of India’s indigenous defense innovation and combat readiness.