INSV Kaundinya Completes Historic Voyage from Porbandar to Muscat

INSV Kaundinya has successfully completed its first maritime journey from Porbandar to Muscat, celebrated by the crew and officials. Central Minister Sarbananda Sonowal praised the mission as a testament to Prime Minister Modi's efforts to revive India's maritime heritage. The vessel symbolizes India's ancient shipbuilding skills and is inspired by historical designs. This project, initiated through a collaboration between the Ministry of Culture and the Indian Navy, aims to showcase India's rich maritime history. The crew, led by Commander Vikas Sheoran, shared updates during the journey, emphasizing the significance of this expedition in promoting India's naval legacy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 14, 2026, 17:52 IST

Celebration of a Successful Maritime Journey

After successfully completing its inaugural maritime journey from Porbandar, Gujarat, the crew of INSV Kaundinya celebrated its arrival in Muscat. To honor this achievement, a ceremonial salute was given to the indigenous Indian Navy vessel on Wednesday. Central Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, praised the mission, highlighting it as a remarkable example of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to revive India's maritime heritage.

Significance of the Mission

Speaking about the importance of this expedition, Sonowal remarked that INSV Kaundinya exemplifies the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi. He emphasized the need to revive India's ancient shipbuilding skills and present them proudly to the world.

Symbolism of the Vessel

The minister further elaborated on the symbolic significance of the ship, stating that it represents the enduring strength of India's maritime heritage, characterized by skill and continuous innovation. He noted that the design and identity of the vessel draw inspiration from the fifth-century ships depicted in the Ajanta Caves.

Details of the Voyage

INSV Kaundinya, named after the legendary navigator Kaundinya, set sail from Porbandar on December 29, 2025. The crew comprised four officers and 13 sailors, led by Commander Vikas Sheoran, with Commander Y. Hemant Kumar serving as the officer in charge. Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council and part of the crew, shared daily updates about the ship on social media.

Reviving Traditional Shipbuilding

This vessel, a sewn-sail ship, is based on the traditional shipbuilding style linked to India's ancient maritime history. The project commenced through a tripartite agreement signed in July 2023 between the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and Hodi Innovations, which received funding from the Ministry of Culture.