President Murmu Stresses Naval Cooperation at IFR

Emphasising the importance of cooperation among the Navies of friendly nations, President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday reaffirmed India’s commitment to collective responsibility and shared cooperation for global security and growth.

The President reviewed Indian Naval Ships along with vessels from friendly foreign nations during the 3rd International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026, held off the Visakhapatnam coast. The review featured warships anchored at sea in six columns.

Addressing naval officers, sailors, and distinguished guests aboard INS Sumedha, the Presidential Yacht, Ms. Murmu congratulated the participating Navies for their impressive display. She recalled India’s long-standing maritime ties with South East Asian nations, built over centuries through trade, commerce, and cultural exchange.

Highlighting the Indian Navy’s role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, the President said such missions during natural calamities have earned India global goodwill and trust. Referring to the historic ‘Bali Jatara’ links between Odisha and Bali, she noted that the tradition symbolises enduring trade and cultural relations between India and South East Asia.

The review showcased India’s naval strength across sea, air, and underwater domains. INS Vikrant, India’s indigenously built aircraft carrier, stood out as a symbol of the nation’s progress towards self-reliance in advanced warship construction, including aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines.

The event also featured aerial manoeuvres by MiG-29K fighter aircraft, fly-pasts by Chetak helicopters carrying the Indian National Flag and the Indian Navy flag, and operations by the P-8I anti-submarine aircraft releasing flares.

Earlier, the President inspected a Guard of Honour at the Naval Dockyard Jetty before being escorted to INS Sumedha. Governor S. Abdul Nazeer and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu were among the dignitaries present.