Narayana Murthy: Strong Indian Navy Vital for Global Power Status

Infosys founder N.R. Narayana Murthy on Tuesday underlined the pivotal role of the Indian Navy in advancing India’s global aspirations. Speaking at the Vice Admiral KK Nayyar Memorial Lecture on the theme ‘A Salute to a Life of Service,’ he said that the country’s destiny is inseparable from its maritime strength, linking naval capability directly to India’s ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

Murthy emphasized that the Navy is not only a defender of the coastline but also a protector of maritime commerce and a guarantor of national security. He highlighted the transformative role of technology, including artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and cyber capabilities, in modern warfare and national defence preparedness.

The lecture, which marked the 21st Foundation Day of the National Maritime Foundation (NMF), also celebrated the enduring values of discipline, courage, teamwork, integrity, and national pride embodied by the Navy, which Murthy described as foundational to India’s progress on the global stage.

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Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi highlighted the Navy’s dual responsibility: addressing current security challenges while preparing for future strategic imperatives. He noted that India’s growing recognition as a principal security provider in the Indo-Pacific is reflected in the participation of over 70 countries in the upcoming International Fleet Review (IFR).

The event also touched upon India’s active role in multinational maritime exercises, including the 13th edition of MILAN and the 9th Conclave of Chiefs of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), where India will assume chairmanship. Murthy called for continued integration of cutting-edge technology and strategic foresight to maintain India’s maritime leadership.

Attended by senior serving and retired officers, diplomats, academics, and strategic experts, the lecture reinforced the NMF’s mission of deepening maritime awareness, encouraging informed policy debate, and advocating the sustainable and secure development of India’s maritime domain.

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