Thiruvananthapuram: President Droupadi Murmu will arrive in the Kerala capital on Wednesday for a landmark visit during which she will inaugurate the newly renamed Lok Bhavan and preside over the Navy Day celebrations on December 3.

Her visit marks the first official stay by a President at the Governor’s residence since its rechristening from Kerala Raj Bhavan to Lok Bhavan.

The Union Home Ministry had last month directed the renaming of Raj Bhavans across the country to Lok Bhavan, in line with the spirit of ‘Lok Tantra’ (people’s governance). In accordance with the directive, the ‘Kerala Raj Bhavan’ nameplate was removed on Monday, and the new ‘Lok Bhavan’ insignia will be unveiled on Tuesday ahead of the President’s arrival.

A key highlight of President Murmu’s visit will be her role as chief guest at this year’s Navy Day celebrations, which for the first time will be held in Thiruvananthapuram. The event has been brought forward from December 4 to December 3 due to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s scheduled visit to New Delhi for the India–Russia annual summit, signalling both geopolitical considerations and India’s growing naval influence.

The celebrations will take place at the newly developed artificial shore at Shankhumukham Beach, designed to host large-scale maritime demonstrations. The Indian Navy will present an impressive display led by its flagship indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, supported by frontline warships, submarines and fighter aircraft. Live demonstrations of operational drills and aerial manoeuvres are expected to draw a massive audience.

The coastal showcase in Kerala reflects the Navy’s strategy to expand maritime awareness beyond its traditional bases and highlight operational reach across all seaboards.

With the President in attendance and an extensive naval display planned, this year’s Navy Day promises to be both a ceremonial milestone and a strong projection of India’s maritime capability and strategic intent.

IANS