New Delhi, July 26: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hailed the induction of the indigenously built stealth frigateINS Mahendragiriinto the Indian Navy, describing it as a symbol of the growing strength of an'Atmanirbhar Bharat', during the 136th episode of his monthly radio programmeMann Ki Baat.

Referring to the warship's induction, the Prime Minister said it reflects India's increasing self-reliance in defence manufacturing, noting that more than 75 per cent of the materials used in the vessel are indigenous.

"Today, alongside the courage of our soldiers, India is continuously strengthening its technological capabilities. INS Mahendragiri has been designed and built in India itself, with over 75 per cent indigenous content. It is a symbol of the growing strength of an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'," PM Modi said.

The Indian Navy commissionedINS Mahendragiriinto its Eastern Fleet on July 11 during a ceremony in Visakhapatnam attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The advanced stealth frigate, weighing around 6,670 tonnes, can attain speeds of up to 28 knots and is equipped with supersonic surface-to-surface missiles, advanced stealth technology, modern sensors, network-centric combat systems and state-of-the-art weapon systems.

The Prime Minister also applauded the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for recent milestones in indigenous defence technology. He praised the successful test of thePinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket, attributing the achievement to the dedication and perseverance of India's scientists and engineers.

He further noted that DRDO had also successfully tested theKusha missilein recent days, underscoring India's continued progress in strengthening its defence capabilities through advanced technology.

During the programme, PM Modi also highlighted India's achievements in the space sector, celebrating the successful launch ofVikram-1, the country's first privately developed rocket. Calling it a historic milestone, he said the launch had filled every Indian with pride and showcased the growing contribution of private companies and young innovators to India's expanding space programme.

"The successful launch of Vikram-1 marks a historic moment for India's space sector. Our young innovators have achieved something that was once difficult to imagine," the Prime Minister said.