Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lavished praise on the Chozha dynasty which ruled Tamil Nadu for several years in phases. “Chozhas probably had the best naval fleet in the whole world during their times,” Modi has said.

Navy Day is being observed next Monday (04th December). It found reference to the Prime Minister’s ‘Mann Ki Baath’ address to the nation on radio. “Chozha dynasty was ample proof of the country’s naval strength as it possessed probably the best naval fleet in the whole world. The naval power enabled Chozhas to accumulate many war victories. It was also the first naval fleet to employ women in its force.

“It was for the first time in the world that women were enrolled in a Navy and it happened during the Chozhas’ regime. More than 900 years before from now, Chozhas’ Navy had plenty of women in various capacities, which meant that women were treated on par with their menfolk.

“While on the topic of naval warfare, how shall we avoid referring to Chatrapati Shivaji’s naval fleet which ruled the Konkan coast. It comprising small boats and huge ships and was ably administered by his lieutenants. Since the country’s Independence, our Navy has shown and proved its superior power on many occasions including the Goa liberation war, Indo-Pakistan war, etc. I wish all those associated with the India Navy a happy Navy Day,” Modi said in his speech.