PANAJI: While stating that 'Operation Sindoor' launched by India, sent a powerful message that terrorism will not go unpunished, Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar today said that economic development cannot take place in a war-like atmosphere.
Referring to India’s recent retaliatory operation against terror bases in Pakistan, Dhankhar highlighted Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
“The strike was deep in enemy territory, yet aligned with our ethos to target only terrorists. It sent a powerful message that terrorism will not go unpunished,” he said.
He added that peace is essential for India’s growth aspirations. “Economic development cannot take place in a war-like atmosphere. Peace is the foundation of national progress. Peace comes from strength in security, economy and development, and from unwavering commitment to nationalism,” Dhankhar said.
The Vice President was speaking after launching three major green infrastructure projects worth Rs 300 crore at Mormugao Port today, describing the occasion as a “defining moment” in India’s maritime journey.
The projects include a 3 MW solar power plant, two harbour mobile cranes to boost cargo handling and a massive eco-friendly coal-handling dome.
“This is a defining moment for Bharat’s maritime profile. One defining facet of the Narendra Modi government is fast-track completion. The Prime Minister’s passion is for development; it is his mission,” Dhankhar said at the inauguration, praising the Centre’s rapid infrastructure push.
The event marked the beginning of Dhankhar’s three-day visit to Goa, during which he will meet state officials, scientists and defence personnel.
Addressing officers of the Indian Coast Guard, the Vice President lauded their critical role in protecting the country’s maritime and ecological frontiers. “You guard coral reefs, mangroves and marine life. You are a force of steel, strategy and conscience,” he said.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who welcomed the Vice President in Vasco, said the newly commissioned 3 MW solar power plant will make Mormugao Port entirely dependent on clean energy, reducing carbon emissions by 3,800 tonnes annually. “MPT is on course to become India’s first green port under the Maritime India Vision 2030,” he stated.
Sawant also highlighted the newly inaugurated coal-handling dome, the largest in Goa, equipped with advanced dust control and fire safety systems. “This is our answer to long-standing pollution concerns. The dome will eliminate coal-related pollution in the area,” he said.
While endorsing the Centre’s modernisation agenda, the Chief Minister emphasised the importance of protecting local livelihoods. “We welcome development, but we must also ensure that the interests of workers are safeguarded. Many families rely on this port,” Sawant said.
The Vice President will continue his engagements in Goa tomorrow, when he is scheduled to unveil statues of ancient Indian medical pioneers Acharya Charaka and Sage Susruta at Raj Bhavan. He will also visit the ICAR Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (CCARI) to interact with scientists and researchers.
