ADDRESS BY HON’BLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA SMT. DROUPADI MURMU ON INTERNATIONAL FLEET REVIEW – 2026

I feel very happy after witnessing the impressive fleet of warships and the display by naval personnel from India and friendly navies.

I express my compliments to each one of you for the professionalism demonstrated by you at this International Fleet Review.

International Fleet Review reflects unity, trust and respect among nations for maritime traditions. Ships with different flags and sailors from different countries exhibit the spirit of togetherness. This spirit of togetherness is well captured in the theme of this review: United Through Oceans. It is a positive message to the global community that the commitment and resolve of this collective naval strength can overcome all challenges.

India’s relationship with the seas has been deep and enduring. For centuries, these oceans have been pathways of commerce, connection and cultural exchange for India. People enthusiastically celebrate the festival ‘Bali Jatra’ or ‘Voyage to Bali’ on the banks of Mahanadi in Cuttack during the week starting on Kartik Purnima. This festival is an expression of respect to the ancient sailors from what is now Odisha. It celebrates the tradition of regular sea travel to South-East Asia for various purposes since the ancient Kalinga empire. These travels contributed to the spread and exchange of trade and goods, ideas and values, shaping a shared cultural consciousness across regions.

Vishakhapatnam has a glorious maritime past. Today’s event underlines the enduring naval significance of Vishakhapatnam. This Fleet Review also takes forward India’s vision of MAHASAGAR which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.

India’s approach to international relations including the maritime domain is guided by our ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ or ‘the world is one family’. This approach reflects the wisdom that global security and growth, sustainability and stability are built through partnerships. This spirit of partnership is the bedrock of an enduring global order. Therefore, India believes that a sound maritime order is based on collective responsibility and cooperative action among like-minded partners.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The Indian Navy is vigilant in safeguarding India’s maritime interests and contributing to stability across the wider maritime commons. Units of the Indian Navy deployed in the region serve as credible instruments of deterrence and defence against threats and challenges arising in the seas. The Indian Navy is often the First Responder in times of humanitarian crises and natural disasters, extending quick assistance with compassion and competence. The Indian Navy also plays a vital role in promoting goodwill and building bridges of trust, confidence, and friendship with navies around the globe.

The spirit of friendship on display today through the participation of so many friendly countries highlights the truth that we are connected rather than divided by the seas.

On behalf of fellow Indians, I convey warmest feelings of friendship and appreciation to the officers and sailors from friendly foreign navies. You represent the best traditions of your Services and your Nations. Your discipline, dedication and competence are the foundations upon which collective maritime security is built. Your presence here has further strengthened our bonds of trust and reaffirmed our shared commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation at sea.

The international convergence on display here will promote our common purpose and heritage. I am sure that all the navies represented here will collectively help the oceans thrive as gateways for growth, prosperity and overall well-being of the global community.

Thank you!
Jai Hind!
Jai Bharat!