Modi commissions first home-built aircraft carrier
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today commissioned INS Vikrant, India’s first home-built aircraft carrier, in a grand ceremony at Cochin Shipyard.
The 45,000-tonne warship has been built at a cost of ₹ 20,000 crore.
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.
Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister 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, the Prime Minister also 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.