New Delhi, February 8: The Indian Navy‘s sail training ship, INS Sudarshini, has successfully completed its first port call at the Salalah port in Oman. The ship is currently on a ten-month-long maritime journey named ‘Lokayan-26’.
This visit to Oman marks a significant milestone in the voyage. The Indian ship has now departed from the port. The ‘Lokayan-26’ mission aims to promote India’s rich maritime heritage and the message of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, meaning the world is one family. During its ten-month journey, INS Sudarshini will visit 18 foreign ports across 13 countries. The traditional sailing vessel will also participate in special international events held in countries like France and the United States.
The ship is undertaking a maritime journey of over 22,000 nautical miles. While in Salalah, the commanding officer of INS Sudarshini met with Captain Mohammed Al Ghailani, the Southern Naval Area Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman, and Captain Mohammed Al Mahari, commanding officer of the RNO ship Al Mo’azer. They emphasized strengthening the longstanding maritime ties and friendship between India and Oman.
Additionally, Omani Royal Navy officials were given a guided tour of the ship. According to the Ministry of Defence, INS Sudarshini was also opened to the public to enhance local engagement. Over 600 visitors, including school children, had the opportunity to explore the three-masted Indian vessel and learn about the intricacies of sailing. INS Sudarshini has now set sail for the next leg of the Lokayan-26 journey, carrying forward the message of India’s ancient sailing tradition, friendship, and goodwill across the seas.
It is noteworthy that INS Sudarshini is a sail-training ship of the Indian Navy. This journey will last approximately ten months, during which India will discuss its maritime relationships with various countries, focusing on strengthening friendship and cooperation between navies. The ship has embarked on the historic intercontinental sailing campaign named ‘Lokayan-26’, showcasing India’s rich naval tradition on the global stage. This naval mission also conveys a message of building bridges of cooperation, trust, and friendship across the oceans.