Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth highlighted the project INSV Kaundinya

Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, today, flagged-in to Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya, a traditionally constructed stitched sailing vessel of the Indian Navy, which has returned home after the successful completion of her historic maiden overseas voyage to Muscat, Oman.

Addressing the gathering, Raksha Rajya Mantri highlighted the national significance of the project, stating that INSV Kaundinya represented the revival of India’s ancient maritime knowledge systems and would serve as an inspiration to the youth of the country. He underscored the courage, resilience, and the spirit of rediscovery reflected by the voyage, encouraging young Indians to embrace adventure and innovation rooted in civilisational confidence.

Speaking on the occasion, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan commended the crew for their extraordinary dedication and professionalism in sailing a traditionally constructed stitched vessel across the Arabian Sea. He underscored the immense hard work involved from conceptualisation and research to design, traditional construction, crew training and execution of the voyage.

Consul General of the Sultanate of Oman Mahboob Issa Alraisi in Mumbai, senior officers, veterans, representatives from Hodi Innovations, eminent members of civil society, members of the maritime community, historians and sailing enthusiasts were present on the occasion.UPDATED ON 2ND MARCH 2026)