Malvan, Leader News Service: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's foresight needs to be appreciated. He was the first to recognize the omnipotent One who dominates the ocean. Not only this, he also laid the foundation of the Indian Navy by building various forts. Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “My salute to their naval strength.” The Indian Navy is celebrating its anniversary at Sindhudurg Fort here in Dimakha. Modi was speaking as the chief guest on the occasion. The statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the royal seal on the naval flag were unveiled by the Prime Minister. While stating that India will become the third largest economic power in the near future, he also clarified that the needs of the army will be met through 'Make in India'.
On this occasion the Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R. Harikumar, Army Chief General Anil Chauhan, Governor Ramesh Bais, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Minister Narayan Rane, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Assembly Speaker Rahul Narvekar, Legislative Council Deputy Speaker Neelam Gorhe, Public Works Minister Ravindra Chavan, Industries Minister Uday Samant, School Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar, BJP State President Chandrashekhar Bawankule, MP Vinayak Raut etc. along with senior Navy officers, marines, commandos and their families were present in large numbers.
Prime Minister Modi began his speech by praising the naval prowess of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Modi said, there is no need to repeat how important sea route is for any country. I consider it my fortune that the grand statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the royal seal on the naval flag were unveiled in my presence. It is a matter of pride for us that this year's Navy Day is being celebrated at Sindhudurg.
India's history is not about slavery; of valor and strength
Stating that India's history is not of slavery but of bravery and strength, Modi said, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj realized how important maritime power is for a country. He worked hard to establish his rule over the sea. In order to make Armar strong, Maharaja raised Daryawardi like Kanhoji Angre, Hiroji Indulkar. The historic fort of Sindhudurg is a symbol of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's naval power.
Committed to the development of Konkan
The development of our maritime peoples was almost at a standstill. However, I can assure you that after 2014 fish production in the country has increased. Fishermen have also got the benefit of Kisan Card. Our government is trying its best to encourage new industries and businesses to flourish on the seashores. Our government is committed to comprehensive development of not only Sindhudurg but the entire Konkanpatti.
Inclusion of women in Navy too: Rajnath Singh
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh said that the women power of this country is working in all sectors from Parliament. He proudly said that women have now been included in the Navy as well. He said, the strength of Indian Navy is increasing day by day. That is why other countries of the world are jealous of Indian Navy. Indian Navy should be known as the most powerful navy in the world.
Development of Maharashtra due to Modi: Chief Minister
First Har Ghar was called Modi. Now Ghar Ghar Modi is being experienced. Maharashtra is developing with the cooperation of center and state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is creating the Swarajya Surajya that Chhatrapati Shivraya expected. This is the task of showing the power of India to the world. Strong India is our new identity, said Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
The 43 feet grand statue of Shiva Raya was erected in four months
A 43 feet tall statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has been erected at Rajkot fort near Sindhudurg fort and the statue was unveiled in a grand ceremony by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday. Navy has erected this statue. The work of erecting the statue on this fort has been going on for the past four months.