NE DEFENCE BUREAU
PORBANDAR, DEC 29
In a remarkable blend of heritage revival and maritime diplomacy, the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya, the Indian Navy’s indigenously built traditional stitched sailing vessel, embarked on her maiden overseas voyage from Porbandar, Gujarat to Muscat, Sultanate of Oman on Monday. The expedition marks a historic milestone in India’s efforts to celebrate and reinvigorate its ancient maritime traditions through a living ocean voyage.
The vessel was formally flagged off by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, in the presence of Issa Saleh Al Shibani, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to India, senior Indian Navy officers and distinguished guests, underscoring the strategic and cultural significance of the journey.
- Stitched vessel retraces ancient Indian Ocean trade routes, reaffirming maritime heritage
- Prime Minister Modi lauds craftsmanship, designers, artisans and Navy for historic endeavour
- Voyage strengthens bilateral ties with Oman, showcasing India’s cultural and naval diplomacy
- Combination of tradition and operational excellence highlights India’s maritime identity
INSV Kaundinya has been constructed using ancient Indian stitched-ship techniques, employing natural materials and methods that date back several centuries, and drawing inspiration from historical depictions of seafaring vessels. The unique design reflects a rare convergence of history, traditional craftsmanship and modern naval expertise, reinforcing India’s longstanding maritime legacy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to the crew as the vessel set sail, highlighting the symbolic value of the voyage. “Wonderful to see that INSV Kaundinya is embarking on her maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat, Oman. Built using the ancient Indian stitched-ship technique, this ship highlights India’s rich maritime traditions. I congratulate the designers, artisans, shipbuilders and the Indian Navy for their dedicated efforts in bringing this unique vessel to life. My best wishes to the crew for a safe and memorable journey, as they retrace our historic links with the Gulf region and beyond,” the Prime Minister said in a post on ‘X’, acknowledging the blend of centuries-old tradition with contemporary maritime spirit.
The expedition retraces ancient maritime routes that once connected India’s western coast with regions across the Indian Ocean, facilitating trade, cultural exchange and sustained civilisational interactions. By reactivating these historic sea routes, the voyage not only honors India’s past seafaring prowess but also deepens people-to-people ties and bilateral relations with Oman.
INSV Kaundinya’s journey highlights India’s commitment to maritime diplomacy, heritage preservation and regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. It stands as a testament to the nation’s civilisational maritime outlook, showcasing how indigenous knowledge systems and historic craftsmanship can harmoniously coexist with modern strategic objectives.
