Indian Naval Sail Training Ship (STS) INS Sudarshini has concluded its port call at New York, United States, marking another milestone in the Indian Navy’s ongoing Lokayan 2026 transoceanic expedition.
The visit formed part of the ship’s 10-month global deployment aimed at showcasing India’s maritime heritage, strengthening international naval cooperation, and enhancing people-to-people ties with partner nations.
Participation in US Independence Celebrations:
During its stay, the indigenously built three-masted barque represented India at the International Naval Review 250 and Sail4th 250 celebrations, organised to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the independence of the United States.One of the highlights of the visit was INS Sudarshini’s participation in the Parade of Sail, where the vessel sailed past the Statue of Liberty and along the Hudson River, flying the Indian national flag alongside tall ships and naval vessels from several countries.The participation underscored India’s growing maritime engagement with the United States and its commitment to strengthening naval diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
Maritime Outreach and Public Engagement:
While berthed at Brooklyn, INS Sudarshini welcomed more than 1,000 visitors, including members of the Indian diaspora, local residents, and maritime enthusiasts.The ship served as a floating showcase of India’s maritime traditions and the Indian Navy’s sail training programme, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about the country’s rich seafaring heritage and naval legacy.
Senior Dignitaries Visit the Ship:
The vessel also hosted several senior Indian dignitaries, including Consul General of India in New York Binaya Srikanta Pradhan and India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Parvathaneni Harish.The dignitaries interacted with the crew and commended the ship’s role in promoting India’s maritime heritage while strengthening maritime cooperation and people-to-people ties between India and the United States.
A state dinner hosted on board brought together diplomats, senior military officials, and distinguished guests, providing an opportunity to reinforce the growing India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.
Next Port of Call: Boston:
Following the completion of its engagements in New York, INS Sudarshini has departed for Boston, where it will participate in the upcoming Sail Boston 2026 celebrations.
The deployment is part of the Indian Navy’s broader maritime diplomacy initiative under Lokayan 2026, through which INS Sudarshini is undertaking a 10-month transoceanic voyage to engage with partner nations, promote India’s maritime heritage, and strengthen international naval cooperation.The expedition continues to project the Indian Navy’s commitment to fostering friendship, goodwill, and maritime collaboration across the world’s oceans while showcasing India’s growing maritime presence on the global stage.
