New Delhi, Dec 4 (IANS): Indian naval personnel observed the 46th Navy Day on Monday as President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman greeted them and lauded their role in securing the country's borders.

Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, Army chief General Bipin Rawat and Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa paid homage to martyrs at the Amar Jawan Jyoti here to commemorate the day.

"On Navy Day, my good wishes to all officers and men and women of the Indian Navy. Nation is proud of your commitment in protecting our maritime frontiers, securing our trade routes, and providing assistance in times of civil emergencies," President Kovind tweeted.

Prime Minister Modi also extended greetings to all Navy personnel and their families, in a tweet, attaching a video of the Indian Navy showing its prowess in the sea.

The Defence Minister, meanwhile, shared a graphic on Operation Trident, under which the Indian Navy attacked the Karachi harbour on December 4 during the 1971 India-Pakistan war.

"Let's salute the bravery, sacrifice and courage of our Naval heroes on 46th Navy Day," the Minister said.

Navy Day in India is celebrated to commemorate the attack on the Karachi harbour during the 1971 war by Indian Naval Missile boats. Operation Trident saw the first use of anti-ship missiles in combat in the region.

The day also commemorate the sacrifices made by the personnel of Indian Navy.