President Droupadi Murmu Undertakes Submarine Dive Sortie, Calls It a Very Special Experience

President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday undertook a dive sortie aboard the Indian Navy’s submarine INS Vagsheer, describing the experience as truly special. The sortie took place off the western seaboard after she embarked on the submarine at the Karwar Naval Harbour in Karnataka.

The President was accompanied by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, according to an official statement from the President’s Secretariat. INS Vagsheer is an indigenous Kalvari-class submarine, reflecting India’s growing capabilities in defence manufacturing.

The dive sortie lasted over two hours, during which President Murmu interacted with officers and sailors on board. She observed several operational demonstrations, including complex underwater manoeuvres and multiple successful firings, showcasing the submarine’s combat readiness.

With this sortie, President Murmu became only the second President of India to undertake a submarine mission, after former President A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. Her embarkation also marked a maiden visit aboard an indigenously built Kalvari-class submarine.

In her remarks, the President praised the discipline, confidence, and dedication of the crew. She stated that the professionalism displayed by the sailors and officers reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s preparedness to face any challenge and protect the nation under all circumstances.