Mumbai, Dec 20 (ANI): President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, who reviewed the naval fleet of the country, today said the safeguarding of the maritime borders is a major requirement for the socio-economic well being of the nation.
Asserting that India is a maritime nation, with significant maritime interests, President Patil in her speech during the review of the naval fleet said: " A preponderant proportion of our overseas trade is through the sea routes. Our nation is surrounded by water bodies on three sides. This gives us an inherent geographical advantage, but it also poses numerous security challenges. Safeguarding of our maritime borders is a major requirement for the social and economic well being of our country. The oil exploration activities off our coasts and at sea, are of significant economic importance."
"Therefore, the protection of our Coast, our 'Sea Lines-of-Communications' and the offshore Development Areas is a major pre-requisite for our nation's development. These are major roles for the Indian Navy. Our Nation has full trust and confidence that our Naval Forces, along with the Coast Guard and other agencies involved in maritime activity will protect these national interests," she added.
The President assured the Navy of the whole hearted support of the people of India, in its endeavours to build a strong maritime and coastal security structure.
President Patil said the Indian Navy has been actively involved in anti -piracy missions since 2008, and has earned the gratitude of the maritime community and of other navies, operating in the region for their efforts.
"I am aware that with these increased challenges and tasks, our ships are being deployed to the far reaches of the oceans for prolonged duration. Our officers and sailors have consistently risen to the occasion and displayed the utmost dedication and commitment, while working tirelessly in a difficult environment. I congratulate and commend each one of you for this. I am confident that our Fleet is fully prepared to meet any challenges that may threaten the maritime security of our nation in the future," said President Patil.
"As the Supreme Commander of India's Armed Forces, I am convinced of the capacity and resolve of our Naval personnel. I would like to complement all present here, as also all those who have worked behind the scene, for the impressive conduct of this Fleet Review. My best wishes to the officers, sailors and civilian workforce of the Navy and their families," she added.
Expressing her delight to review the combined Fleets of the Indian Navy, President Patil said: "It is, indeed, a majestic sight to see our Navy's ships, submarines and aircraft in their entire splendour. On this special occasion, I extend my greetings to all the officers, sailors and civilian staff of the Navy."
"I would also like to congratulate the crew of the ships from the Indian Coast Guard and the representative merchant ships from the Shipping Corporation of India and from the Sea Cadet Corps, who have participated in this Fleet Review," she added.
President Patil further said the Indian Navy has grown in strength and stature over the last decade.
"The launch of the nuclear submarine Arihant, and induction of the indigenously built Shivalik Class frigates are an reflection of the capability of our shipyards and technological competence of our personnel. The Navy, today, is poised to achieve new milestones with the imminent induction of the aircraft carrier Vikramaditya, the Kolkata Class stealth destroyers, the follow-on frigates of the Talwar Class, the indigenous ASW Corvettes and an impressive number of submarines and aircraft," said President Patil.
"Today, the Indian Navy is one of the most capable in the region and with its well thought out modernization plans, is destined to grow even further," she added.
President Patil also conveyed warm New Year greetings to the personnel of the Indian Navy and their families and hoped that 2012 will be a year of great success for the nation.
"I wish the Indian Navy fair winds, following seas and a glorious future," she said. (ANI)
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