Navy Day is celebrated to commemorate Operation Trident against Pakistan during the 1971 Indo-Pak War

The Indian Navy has steadfastly protected the nation and has distinguished itself with its humanitarian spirit during challenging times, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a message on Navy Day on Sunday.

"Best wishes on Navy Day to all navy personnel and their families. We in India are proud of our rich maritime history. The Indian Navy has steadfastly protected our nation and has distinguished itself with its humanitarian spirit during challenging times," Prime Minister Modi wrote on Twitter.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also greeted the Indian Navy, saying it was at the forefront of keeping the country safe.

"Greetings to all @IndianNavy personnel on Navy Day. The Indian Navy is at the forefront of keeping our country safe by ensuring impeccable maritime security. The nation is proud of Indian Navy’s valour, courage, commitment and professionalism," Singh tweeted.

The Indian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to protect national interests and remain a combat ready force.

"We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to preserve protect & promote our National Interests & to remain a #CombatReady #Credible #Cohesive & #FutureProof Force. We pay homage to supreme sacrifices of our bravehearts & gratitude to our veterans," the Indian Navy said on Twitter.

Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF) Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, and Vice Army Chief Lt General. BS Raju also paid respects to the martyrs at the National War Memorial in New Delhi earlier in the day.

Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande and All Ranks of the Indian Army conveyed best wishes on Navy Day to All Ranks, Veterans & Families of the Indian Navy.

The Indian Navy observes a national celebration day known as "Indian Navy Day" on December 4 each year to commemorate the start of Operation Trident against Pakistan during the 1971 Indo-Pak War.

The purpose of the day is to celebrate and honor the contributions and accomplishments of the Indian Navy to the nation. With its three-dimensional capabilities and well-balanced force, the Indian Navy defends national interests above, on, and below the ocean's surface.

The Navy Day festivities were traditionally held in New Delhi. However, this year's Navy Day festivities are taking place outside of Delhi for the first time.

At the "operational demonstration" in Visakhapatnam, the Indian Navy is displaying its prowess, and President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to attend as the "guest of honor." The event will be hosted by Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, and is expected to draw a number of dignitaries from the central and state administrations.

At the demonstration, the capability and adaptability of the Indian Navy would be displayed by its ships, submarines, planes, and Special Forces from the Eastern, Western, and Southern Naval Commands. The ceremony at sunset and the illumination of ships at anchorage will mark the event's conclusion.