KOLKATA, India, Jun 24 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday commissioned three indigenously designed and built naval platforms, describing the move as a major milestone in India’s quest for self-reliance, maritime security and defence manufacturing.
The vessels – INS Dunagiri, an advanced stealth frigate; INS Sanshodhak, a hydrographic survey vessel; and INS Agray, an anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft – were inducted into service at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata.
According to the Indian government, the three ships will strengthen the country’s maritime capabilities, enhance coastal security and improve maritime domain awareness amid evolving geopolitical challenges.
Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), the vessels contain more than 75 percent indigenous content and were constructed with support from over 200 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The commissioning coincided with the International Day of Yoga and World Hydrography Day, which Modi described as a symbolic moment for India’s maritime sector.
“No nation can emerge as a major power without strong maritime capabilities. Development, security and prosperity are closely linked to the oceans,” Modi said during the ceremony.
He noted that global trade, digital infrastructure and future energy resources are increasingly tied to maritime domains, making naval strength a critical component of economic and strategic influence.
The Prime Minister said the induction of the three vessels demonstrated India’s growing capabilities in indigenous design, manufacturing and innovation.
“All three vessels symbolise India’s commitment to self-reliance. They showcase the talent of Indian industries, the expertise of Indian engineers and the hard work of Indian workers,” he said.
Modi said India aims to become a leading defence manufacturer rather than remain primarily a defence importer, arguing that countries with strong manufacturing capabilities play a more decisive role in global affairs.
He highlighted the growth of India’s domestic defence sector, noting that more than 40 indigenous warships and submarines have joined the Indian Navy in recent years, while 45 major naval platforms are currently under construction.
According to Modi, India’s defence production has risen from approximately ₹40,000 crore in 2014 to nearly ₹1.8 lakh crore today, reflecting the impact of policies promoting domestic manufacturing and defence exports.
The Prime Minister also emphasised the economic benefits of shipbuilding, saying the sector supports extensive supply chains spanning steel, electronics, machinery and component manufacturing.
“The maritime sector is a key engine of economic growth and job creation,” he said, noting that more than 200 MSMEs contributed to the construction of the newly commissioned vessels.
Modi pointed to recent policy reforms, including a ₹70,000-crore incentive package for the shipping sector and the Sagarmala programme, as part of India’s broader strategy to strengthen maritime infrastructure, reduce logistics costs and accelerate industrial development.
He also highlighted West Bengal’s historical role in maritime trade, describing the state as well-positioned to become a major hub for India’s Blue Economy, logistics and maritime manufacturing sectors.
“Security is indispensable for protecting prosperity, while self-reliance is necessary for building the future,” Modi said.
“The commissioning of INS Agray, INS Dunagiri and INS Sanshodhak reflects a nation that is increasingly confident in its capabilities and determined to advance its maritime and industrial ambitions.”
