President Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday extended his greetings and felicitations to all members of the Indian Navy and their families on the occasion of Navy Day, 2014.
"I am happy to know that the Navy Day is being celebrated on December 4, 2014. The current geostrategic environment has enhanced the role and responsibilities of the Indian Navy in protecting the nation's maritime interests," said President Mukherjee.
"The Navy's successful induction of indigenously constructed warships and submarines and its integration of Indian-made equipment and systems symbolise India's growing maritime capabilities and quest for strategic self-reliance," he added.
He stated that it was indeed a matter of great pride and reassurance to the entire nation that the uniformed and civilian personnel of the Navy were serving the nation with utmost devotion and dedication.
"They have countered effectively growing challenges and maintained constant vigil at sea," he said.
"I am sure that the Indian Navy will continue to ensure the security of maritime trade and international sea lanes vital for the nation's development; protect our vast coastline and contribute to regional peace and stability," he concluded.
A series of operational displays would be held today in Visakhapatnam to celebrate Navy Day, commemorating the Indian Navy's successful operation on Karachi Harbour during the 1971 Indo-Pak War.