Text of the PM's Remarks on the Commissioning of Coast Ship Barracuda

Published By : Admin | March 12, 2015 | 15:28 IST

Hon’ble Prime Minister Sir Aneerood Jugnauth, distinguished guests,

To our naval personnel from India, our guardian of the seas, who are here today – my special greetings to you.

19 PM MODI unveiling of plaque for Commissioning of Offshore Patrol Vessel Barrac (5) It is a great honour to commission the Barracuda today in the service of the National Coast Guard of Mauritius.

Thank you for giving me this privilege. Thank you for choosing India as your partner.

This ship has made a long journey – from Kolkata across the great arc of Indian Ocean to this beautiful shore.

Generations ago, people from India charted that course to a new destination and a new life.

Today, Barracuda brings with her the goodwill and greetings of the people of India.

She represents our unique trust and confidence.

She reflects our partnership that has stood the test of time.

She is a symbol of our shared commitment to peace and security in Indian Ocean- our common maritime home.

Barracuda is a beautiful ship. She is also very capable; and built to specifications of Mauritius.

Now, she sails proudly with the flag of Mauritius. She will protect your islands and your waters. She will be there to help in times of distress and emergencies.

But, she will do more than that. She will also help make our Indian Ocean safer and more secure.

In doing so, Mauritius will fulfill an important international responsibility because, the Indian Ocean is critical to the future of the world. This Ocean bears two-thirds of the world`s oil shipments, one-third of its bulk cargo; and half of its container traffic. Over three-fourths of its traffic goes to other regions of the world.

The vast Indian Ocean Region hosts over 40 states and nearly 40% of the world`s population. It touches Australia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, West Asia and the eastern seaboard of Africa. It sparkles with the gems of island states.

Think of the civilisational links, yet great diversity in this vast region! Consider the vast opportunities that it holds!

Today, the world speaks of 21st century driven by the dynamism and the energy of Asia and the Pacific. But, its course will be determined by the tides of the Indian Ocean. This is why Indian Ocean is at the centre of global attention more than ever before.

19 PM MODI unveiling of plaque for Commissioning of Offshore Patrol Vessel Barrac (6)

We also see growing global stakes and presence in the Ocean. Even in this changing world, the oceans hold the key to its fortunes. And, we will all prosper when the seas are safe, secure and free for all.

To ensure this will be our greatest collective responsibility. But, we will also have to rise to other challenges that are not uncommon in our region.

We have seen the tragedy of tsumanis and cyclones.

Terror has visited us from sea. Piracy has taken toll of lives and trade on a scale that seemed beyond belief in modern era.

Illegal fishing and oil spills hurt our economies. We all feel the rising impact of climate change on our coasts and islands.

We have also seen that instability and turmoil in coastal and island states can have profound impact on security on the seas.

India is at the crossroads of Indian Ocean.

Since Lothal in Gujarat became one of the earliest seaports in the world, India has had a long maritime tradition.

Our cultural footprints stretch across Asia and Africa. We see this in our strong Diaspora across oceans.

The seas forged links of commerce, culture, and religion with our extended neighbourhood across several millenniums.

Our more recent history has focused our attention on our continental neighborhood.

But, India has been shaped in more ways by the seas around us.

Today, 90% of our trade by volume and 90% of our oil imports take place through sea. We have coastline of 7500 km, 1200 islands and 2.4 million square kilometers of Exclusive Economic Zone.

India is becoming more integrated globally. We will be more dependent than before on the ocean and the surrounding regions.

We must also assume our responsibility to shape its future.

So, Indian Ocean Region is at the top of our policy priorities.

Our vision for Indian Ocean Region is rooted in advancing cooperation in our region; and, to use our capabilities for the benefit of all in our common maritime home.

It means many things.

One, we will do everything to safeguard our mainland and islands and defend our interests.

Equally we will work to ensure a safe, secure and stable Indian Ocean Region that delivers us all to the shores of prosperity.

And, our capabilities will be there for those struck by the ocean`s fury. Or, caught in distress on the seas.

Second, we will deepen our economic and security cooperation with our friends in the region especially our maritime neighbours and island states.

We will also continue to build their maritime security capacities and their economic strength.

19 PM MODI unveiling of plaque for Commissioning of Offshore Patrol Vessel Barracud (2)

Three, collective action and cooperation will best advance peace and security in our maritime region. It will also prepare us better to respond to emergencies.

That is why, in 2008, India promoted the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium. Today, it brings together 35 navies of the region. Our goal is to deepen our mutual understanding on maritime challenges; and, strengthen our collective ability to address them.

We also support efforts to strengthen our regional mechanisms for maritime cooperation – from dealing with piracy terrorism and other crimes; to marine safety and natural disasters.

India has also started maritime security cooperation with Maldives and Sri Lanka and we hope that Mauritius, Seychelles and other nations in the region will also join this initiative.

Four, we also seek a more integrated and cooperative future in the region that enhances the prospects for sustainable development for all.

We must promote greater collaboration in trade, tourism and investment; infrastructure development; marine science and technology; sustainable fisheries; protection of marine environment; and, overall development of Ocean or Blue Economy.

To me the blue chakra or wheel in India`s national flag represents the potential of Blue Revolution or the Ocean Economy. That is how central the Ocean Economy is to us.

For those who live by the ocean, climate change is not an issue of debate but a serious threat to existence. We must assume leadership in our region and call for a more concerted and fair global action to address the challenge of climate change.

Our Indian Ocean Rim Association can be an important instrument for pursuing our vision for a sustainable and prosperous future in the region.

We often define regional groupings around landmass. The time has come for a strong grouping around the Indian Ocean. We will pursue this with new vigour in the years ahead.

There can be no better place to host the Secretariat for IORA than Mauritius. I am pleased that the Secretary General is from India.

Five, those who live in this region have the primary responsibility for peace, stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean.

But, we recognize that there are other nations around the world, with strong interests and stakes in the region.

India is deeply engaged with them. We do this through dialogue, visits, exercises, capacity building and economic partnership.

Our goal is to seek a climate of trust and transparency; respect for international maritime rules and norms by all countries; sensitivity to each other`s interests; peaceful resolution of maritime issues; and increase in maritime cooperation.

We seek a future for Indian Ocean that lives up to the name of SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region.

We should be inspired by Monsoon, which nurtures and connects us all in region.

We will strive to unite our region in partnership, as we were once in geography.

19 PM MODI unveiling of plaque for Commissioning of Offshore Patrol Vessel Barrac (8)

An Ocean that connects our world should become the pathway of peace and prosperity for all.

It is no coincidence that I speak of our hopes for the Indian Ocean Region in Mauritius.

Our partnership with Mauritius is among our strongest maritime relationships in this world.

Our partnership will grow. We will together build our capabilities. We will also train and patrol the seas together.

But, the foundation of this partnership is larger. It is our shared values and a common vision.

It is our willingness to look beyond our own domain to assume our responsibility for the region.

Mauritius is a key leader for a secure and sustainable future for the Indian Ocean. We in India are proud to be your partner.

Thank you very much, and wish you all the best.

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Important to maintain the authenticity of handloom craftsmanship in the age of technology: PM at Bharat Tex
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My Cabinet colleagues, Shri Giriraj Singh Ji and Pabitra Margherita Ji, esteemed ambassadors of various nations, senior diplomats, officials from the central and state governments, distinguished figures from the world of fashion and textiles, entrepreneurs, students, my dear weaver and artisan friends, ladies and gentlemen!

Today, Bharat Mandapam is hosting the second edition of Bharat Tex. This event not only celebrates our rich traditions but also showcases the immense possibilities of a Viksit Bharat (developed India). It is a matter of immense joy for the nation that the seed we planted is now rapidly growing into a banyan tree. Bharat Tex is evolving into a premier global textiles event. This time, the entire spectrum of the value chain is represented, with 12 associated groups participating together. Additionally, accessories, garments, machinery, chemicals, and dyes are on display. Bharat Tex is emerging as a powerful platform for engagement, collaboration, and partnership among policymakers, CEOs, and industry leaders from across the world. The dedicated efforts of all stakeholders in making this event a success are truly commendable, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone involved.

Friends,

Today, Bharat Tex has participation from over 120 countries— as Giriraj Ji mentioned, 126 countries—meaning that every entrepreneur present here is gaining exposure to these 120+ nations. They have the opportunity to expand their businesses from local to international levels. Those seeking new markets are gaining valuable insights into the cultural preferences of different nations.

Earlier, I had the chance to visit some of the exhibition stalls. Though I could not see everything—had I attempted to do so, it would have taken me two days, which I am sure you would not permit—I did manage to interact with many representatives and understand their perspectives. Several participants shared that after attending Bharat Tex last year, they acquired new buyers on a large scale, significantly expanding their businesses. One particularly interesting comment, or rather a ‘sweet complaint,’ was brought to my attention. Some participants expressed that the demand for their products has surged to such an extent that they are struggling to meet it. Additionally, some entrepreneurs informed me that setting up a factory typically requires an investment of Rs 70–75 crore, and each such facility provides employment to around 2,000 people. To those in the banking sector, I would like to emphasize—please take note of their needs, understand the priorities, and extend your support accordingly.

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Friends,

This event is providing a significant boost to investment, exports, and overall growth in the textile sector.

Friends,

At Bharat Tex, our garments beautifully reflect Bharat's cultural diversity. From East to West, North to South, we boast a vast array of traditional garments, each with multiple variations. Lucknowi Chikan, the Bandhani of Rajasthan and Gujarat, the Patola of Gujarat, the Banarasi Silk of my Kashi, Kanjeevaram Silk from the South, and Pashmina from Jammu and Kashmir—this is the perfect opportunity for such events to showcase our rich heritage. Our diversity and unique craftsmanship should serve as a driving force for the expansion of the garment industry.

Friends,

Last year, I spoke about the five ‘F’ factors in the textile industry—Farm, Fibre, Fabric, Fashion, and Foreign. This vision is now evolving into a mission for Bharat, unlocking new avenues of growth for farmers, weavers, designers, and traders alike. Over the past year, Bharat's textile and apparel exports have increased by 7 percent. Now, are you going to applaud for just 7 percent? Let’s save the applause for when we achieve a 17 percent increase next time! Today, we are the sixth-largest exporter of textiles and apparel in the world, with our textile exports reaching Rs 3 lakh crore. Our goal now is to increase this to Rs 9 lakh crore by 2030. However, while I mention 2030, given the enthusiasm I have witnessed here today, I suspect you might surpass my projections and achieve this target even sooner!

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Friends,

This success is the result of a decade of relentless effort and consistent policies. It is due to these sustained efforts that foreign investment in our textile sector has doubled over the past ten years. Today, some friends shared with me that many foreign companies are keen to invest in Bharat. To them, I said—You are our greatest ambassadors! When you speak about Bharat's opportunities, people believe it instantly. If the government says something, they may scrutinise it, verify facts, and deliberate over it. But when a fellow businessman from the same industry speaks, others trust their word and seize the opportunity without hesitation.

Friends,

You are all aware that the textile industry is one of the most vital sectors in our country, providing extensive employment opportunities. This industry contributes 11% to Bharat's manufacturing sector. You must have noticed in this year's budget that we have placed a strong emphasis on 'Mission Manufacturing', and you are an integral part of this mission. Therefore, as investment flows into this sector and growth accelerates, crores of textile workers are reaping the benefits.

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Friends,

Our commitment is to address the challenges of India's textile sector and unlock new opportunities. To achieve this, we are implementing visionary and long-term strategies. A reflection of our efforts can be seen in this year's budget. Keeping in mind the industry’s key requirements, we are working to ensure a reliable cotton supply within the country, make Indian cotton globally competitive, and strengthen our entire value chain. To this end, we have announced a 'Mission for Cotton Productivity'. Additionally, we are focusing on emerging sectors such as technical textiles. I recall my time as the Chief Minister of Gujarat when I used to interact with people from the textile industry. Back then, when I spoke about technical textiles, they would ask me what I meant. Today, I am pleased to see Bharat establishing itself in this domain. We are actively promoting indigenous carbon fibre and its derivative products, and Bharat is making significant strides in producing high-grade carbon fibre. Alongside these efforts, we are implementing crucial policy decisions to support the textile industry. For example, in this year's budget, the classification criteria for MSMEs have been revised and expanded. Additionally, credit availability has been increased. Given that MSMEs contribute 80% to our textile sector, these reforms will bring tremendous benefits.

Friends,

Any sector can only thrive when it has access to a skilled workforce. In the textile industry, skill plays a defining role. That is why we are working to develop a strong talent pool specifically for this sector. Our 'National Centres of Excellence for Skilling' are playing a crucial role in this initiative, while the 'Samarth Yojana' is helping equip workers with the necessary skills across the value chain. Earlier today, I had the opportunity to speak with several women who have been trained under 'Samarth'. Hearing about their progress over the past five, seven, or even ten years filled me with immense pride. At the same time, we recognise that in this age of technology, traditional handloom and artisanal skills must continue to receive due importance. Our goal is to bring the craftsmanship of handloom artisans to global markets, enhance their capabilities, and create new opportunities for them. We are actively working in this direction. Over the past decade, more than 2,400 major marketing events have been organised to promote handlooms—more than 2,400! Additionally, an e-commerce platform named 'India-Handmade' has been launched to facilitate online marketing of handloom products. Thousands of handloom brands have already registered on the platform, and they are greatly benefiting from the GI tagging of handloom products.

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Friends,

The 'Textiles Startup Grand Challenge' was launched during last year’s Bharat Tex event to encourage innovative and sustainable solutions for the textile sector from young minds. Youth from across the country participated in this challenge with great enthusiasm. The winners of this competition have also been invited here today, and they are present among us. Additionally, start-ups keen to support and nurture these young innovators have also been invited. This initiative is being supported by IIT Madras, the Atal Innovation Mission, and several leading private textile organisations. Such pitch fests will significantly boost the start-up culture in the country.

I urge our young entrepreneurs to establish new techno-textile start-ups and develop fresh, groundbreaking ideas. I also have a suggestion for our textile industry—collaborate with institutes like IITs to develop innovative tools for the sector. We are witnessing a growing trend on social media where the younger generation is increasingly embracing traditional attire alongside modern styles. As a result, the fusion of tradition and innovation has become more important than ever. We must introduce products inspired by our traditional clothing that appeal not only to young Indians but also to global audiences. Another crucial aspect is the rising influence of technology. Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an expanding role in identifying new fashion trends and creating innovative styles. During my recent visit to the NIFT stall, I was informed that AI is now being used to predict the fashion trends of 2026. Previously, the world dictated fashion trends to us—we were told to wear black, and we complied. But now, we will set the trends for the world. This is why, while on one hand, traditional Khadi is being promoted, on the other, AI is being leveraged to analyse future fashion trends.

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I recall an event from my early days as Chief Minister, around 2003. On Gandhi Jayanti, I organised a Khadi fashion show in Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. Students from NIFT and NID collaborated to bring this vision to life. The show was held to the background music of the bhajan "Vaishnav Jan To Tene Re Kahiye." At the time, I had invited some of Vinoba Bhave’s close associates to attend. Since fashion shows often use language and expressions that the older generation may find unfamiliar, they were initially sceptical about the idea. However, I personally convinced them to come. After witnessing the event, they told me, "If we want to make Khadi popular, this is the way forward." Today, Khadi is making remarkable progress and capturing global attention. We must continue to promote it with renewed vigour. During the freedom movement, Khadi symbolised "Khadi for the Nation." Now, it must evolve into "Khadi for Fashion."

Friends,

A few days ago, as the announcer mentioned, I returned from an overseas visit. I was in Paris, the city widely regarded as the fashion capital of the world. During this visit, significant partnerships were established between our two nations on various key issues. One of the central themes of our discussions was the environment and climate change. Today, the world is increasingly recognising the importance of a sustainable lifestyle, and the fashion industry is no exception. The global fashion community is embracing the vision of 'Fashion for Environment' and 'Fashion for Empowerment'. In this regard, Bharat is leading the way.

Sustainability has always been an integral part of Bharat's textile heritage. Our Khadi, tribal textiles, and the use of natural dyes exemplify our long-standing commitment to a sustainable way of life. Now, with the support of cutting-edge technologies, Bharat's traditional sustainable techniques are evolving, directly benefiting artisans, weavers, and the crores of women associated with the textile industry.

Friends,

I firmly believe that the textile industry must embrace the principles of maximising resource efficiency and minimising waste. Today, crores of garments become obsolete every month worldwide, with a significant portion falling into the category of 'fast fashion waste'. This refers to clothing discarded simply due to changing fashion trends. These garments are dumped in various parts of the world, posing a severe threat to the environment and ecosystems. Estimates suggest that fashion waste will reach 148 million tonnes by 2030. Currently, less than a quarter of textile waste is being recycled. However, our textile industry can transform this challenge into an opportunity. Bharat has a long and diverse tradition of textile recycling and upcycling. Many of you are familiar with how we repurpose old or unused fabrics. For instance, in Bharat, carpets are crafted from discarded textiles, and weavers—along with homemakers—create mats, rugs, and coverings from fabric remnants. In Maharashtra, the traditional art of making Godhadis from old, even torn clothes, showcases this ingenuity. We can innovate and elevate these age-old practices, bringing them to the global market.

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The Ministry of Textiles has already taken steps in this direction by signing an MoU with the 'Standing Conference of Public Enterprises' and e-Marketplaces to promote upcycling. Many upcyclers from across India have registered under this initiative. Additionally, pilot projects for door-to-door collection of textile waste are already underway in cities like Navi Mumbai and Bangalore. I encourage our start-ups to actively engage in these efforts, seize these emerging opportunities, and establish a strong foothold in this massive global market. India’s textile recycling market is projected to reach USD 400 million in the coming years, while the global recycled textile market is estimated to reach nearly USD 7.5 billion. By taking strategic steps now, India has the potential to secure an even larger share of this market.

Friends,

Centuries ago, when Bharat stood at the pinnacle of economic prosperity, the textile industry played a crucial role in that success. Today, as we march forward with our vision of a Viksit Bharat, the textile sector is once again poised to make a significant contribution to our nation’s progress. Events like Bharat Tex are reinforcing Bharat's position as a global textile powerhouse. I am confident that with each passing year, this event will set new benchmarks of success and reach greater heights. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all those involved in making this event a grand success.

Thank you very much.
Namaskar.