The Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini departs today on “Lokayan 26,” a landmark 10-month transoceanic expedition covering over 22,000 nautical miles and calling at 18 ports in 13 countries. This voyage embodies India’s “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” ethos, projecting the nation’s seafaring heritage, traditional seamanship, and commitment to global maritime cooperation.
A centerpiece of the deployment includes participation in two premier tall-ship festivals: Escale à Sète in France and SAIL 250 in New York, where INS Sudarshini will showcase India’s enduring maritime legacy on international stages. Over 200 trainees from the Indian Navy and Coast Guard will gain intensive hands-on training in long-range ocean navigation, tall-ship operations, and cross-navy collaborations during the journey.
Beyond skill-building, the ship will foster maritime partnerships through joint exercises and interactions with host navies, advancing the MAHASAGAR vision for regional security and growth while serving as a tool for cultural diplomacy and trust-building. INS Sudarshini, the Navy’s second sail training vessel with over 140,000 nautical miles under its keel, reinforces India’s naval professionalism and goodwill worldwide.
