Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended a Barakhana (community meal) organized by the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam on October 05, 2026, where he interacted with Indian Navy personnel and their families. During the event, Singh commended naval personnel for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation's maritime interests and acknowledged the contributions and sacrifices of their families, noting that their support enables personnel to discharge duties with dedication.
The Minister highlighted the Indian Navy's emergence as a powerful maritime force with proven ability to respond decisively to national challenges. He specifically referenced the Navy's decisive role during the 1971 War, particularly Operation Trident when Indian naval forces struck Karachi harbor, demonstrating both defensive and offensive capabilities. Singh emphasized India's transformation as a maritime power, noting the development and induction of advanced indigenous platforms including indigenous aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, stealth frigates, and Scorpène-class submarines.
Singh called for a broader maritime vision moving forward with the philosophy of 'advancing from the seas towards prosperity and power,' viewing oceans not merely as maritime boundaries requiring protection but as avenues for economic development, strategic influence, and national prosperity. He described naval personnel as heroes representing India's future, strength, and pride, expressing confidence that their continued dedication would contribute significantly to India's emergence as a stronger, more prosperous, and self-reliant nation.
The event underscored the informal and familial spirit of the Barakhana, which serves to strengthen bonds between defence forces personnel, their families, and national leadership. Singh emphasized that such occasions symbolize the deep relationship between the defence forces and the nation, with everyone coming together as part of one larger defence family.