PM's congratulatory message, following the nuclear propulsion reactor on board INS Arihant, India’s first indigenous nuclear powered submarine, achieving criticality

Following is the text of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh`s congratulatory message, following the nuclear propulsion reactor on board INS Arihant, India’s first indigenous nuclear powered submarine, achieving criticality:

"I am delighted to learn that the nuclear propulsion reactor on board INS Arihant, India’s first indigenous nuclear powered submarine, has now achieved criticality. I extend my congratulations to all those associated with this important milestone, particularly the Department of Atomic Energy, the Indian Navy and the Defence Research and Development Organization.

Today’s development represents a giant stride in the progress of our indigenous technological capabilities. It is testimony to the ability of our scientists, technologists and defence personnel to work together for mastering complex technologies in the service of our nation’s security.

I look forward to the early commissioning of the INS Arihant."