PM Modi Address Ceremony In Cochin, Commissioned INS Vikrant

INS Vikrant is India's first home-built aircraft carrier

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned INS Vikrant, India's first home-built aircraft carrier, in a grand ceremony at Cochin Shipyard.

It is an almost 45,000-tonne warship that has been built for Rs 20,000 crore.

Moreover, 262 metres long and 62 metres wide, INS Vikrant is the largest warship to be built in India. It can have 30 aircraft on board, including MiG-29K fighter jets and helicopters. The warship can accommodate a crew of nearly 1,600.

While addressing the occasion, Prime Minister Modi said INS Vikrant is the reflection of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission. "Today, India has entered the list of countries that can build such large warships indigenously. Vikrant has infused new confidence," he added

On the occasion, Prime Minister unveiled the new naval ensign. The new ensign has the national flag on the upper canton. A blue octagonal shape with the national emblem sits atop an anchor, superimposed on a shield with the navy's motto.

"The octagonal shape with twin golden borders draws inspiration from the seal of the great Indian emperor, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, whose visionary maritime outlook established a credible naval fleet," the navy said in a video showcasing the new ensign.

During PM's address, he said that in adopting the new naval ensign, India has removed the burden of slavery off its chest.

INS Vikrant, in the beginning, will have MiG fighters and some choppers. The Navy is in the process of procuring 26 deck-based aircraft, having narrowed it down to some Boeing and Dassault aircraft.

The warship was in the works for over a decade. Multiple phases of sea trials of INS Vikrant have been completed since August 21 last year. Aviation trials will be held after the navy has its command.