PM Modi Credits Joint Forces for Pakistan’s Surrender in Operation Sindoor, Hails End of Maoist Terror Strongholds
Addressing Navy personnel aboard INS Vikrant, PM lauds India’s defence strength, self-reliance, and efforts to eliminate Maoist violence.

Panaji, Oct 20– Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking aboard India’s indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, praised the exceptional coordination between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force during Operation Sindoor, saying it was this joint effort that led to Pakistan’s surrender during the operation.
Calling INS Vikrant more than just a warship, Modi described it as a symbol of 21st-century India’s capability, innovation, and commitment to becoming self-reliant under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. “It reflects not just the might of our Navy but the strength and confidence of a new India,” he said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the major strides taken by India in eradicating Maoist violence. “Earlier, around 125 districts were affected by Maoist terrorism. Today, that number is down to just 11,” he noted, crediting the courage and perseverance of the country’s security forces.
“India is on the threshold of being completely free from Maoist violence,” Modi said, adding that 90% success has already been achieved. He expressed confidence that remaining areas would soon be free of the threat, thanks to the efforts of the police and paramilitary forces.
Reinforcing his government’s push towards becoming a global defence manufacturing hub, Modi said over 40 warships and submarines have been built by Indian shipyards since 2014. “We are working to make India one of the top defence exporters in the world,” he said.
He also referred to the global demand for BrahMos missiles, stating: “The name BrahMos strikes fear in the hearts of some. Today, many countries want to buy them.”
Reflecting on his time spent on INS Vikrant, Modi shared that he had an emotional and inspiring experience with the naval officers. “My Diwali has been special because I got to celebrate it with you. Watching you sing patriotic songs and narrate Operation Sindoor with such pride — no words can truly capture the spirit of a soldier on the battlefield,” he said.