National Defence Univeristy to be formed soon: Modi

Thiruvananthapuram: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday that the country would continue to strengthen its defence capabilities and infrastructure, engage our neighbours more closely and strengthen our regional and global partnerships, including in maritime security.

The Prime Minister was addressing the Combined Commanders Conference on board INS Vikramaditya at Sea, off the coast of Kochi.

Mr. Modi said that India’s transformation as well as security was closely linked with our international partnerships. “So, there is new intensity and purpose in our foreign policy. In the East, we have strengthened our traditional partnerships with Japan, Korea and ASEAN. We have made new openings in the region, including with Australia, Mongolia and Pacific Islands.”

He announced that the proposed National Defence University would be a reality soon

This is the first time that the Combined Commanders Conference has been held on board an aircraft carrier.

The Prime Minister inspected a Tri-services Guard of Honour at INS Garuda at Kochi, before arriving on board INS Vikramaditya, where he was received by the three Service Chiefs.

After the Conference, the Prime Minister witnessed an operational demonstration of India’s naval and maritime air capabilities. The operational demonstration included take-offs and landings of naval fighter aircraft from INS Vikramaditya, missile firing from a warship, flypast of helicopters and fighter aircraft, marine commando operations, and steam-past of warships, including INS Virat. The Prime Minister interacted with soldiers, sailors and airmen on board INS Vikramaditya.

Later, he unveiled the statue of former Chief Minister R. Sankar in Kollam at a function organised by the SNDP Yogam and SN Trust. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Modi said that Sankar was one would lived in tune with the principles enunciated by Sree Narayana Guru and strived for the realisation of the Guru’s vision for Kerala including removal of disparities in the society.

The Prime Minister also visited Sivagiri Mutt at Varkala in Kerala and paid homage Sree Narayana Guru.

Addressing the gathering there, the Prime Minister said he was fortunate to have received the blessings of Sree Narayana Guru. The Guru was his inspiration to work for the poor, deprived and downtrodden sections of society.

Later, Mr. Modi left for Delhi from Thiruvananthapuram airport. Before departure he conferred with Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and State Ministers who presented various demands of the State before him.