The ship, along with the crew, were received by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal at Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat.
Photo: SNS
The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel INSV Kaundinya on Wednesday arrived in Muscat, capital of Oman, after successfully completing its maiden voyage from Porbandar, marking a significant moment in the shared maritime heritage of India and Oman.
The ship, along with the crew, were received by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal at Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat.
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“The voyage of the traditionally built stitched sail vessel highlights the deep-rooted maritime, cultural and civilizational ties between the two nations that span more than 5,000 years,” the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said.
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It also underscores the role of oceans as connective corridors that have enabled sustained interaction between India and Oman over centuries. The expedition holds added significance as both countries commemorate 70 years of diplomatic relations.
On the occasion, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said, “This event is not only a celebration of a voyage, but of a deep-rooted civilizational bond. The arrival of this stitched ship in Muscat is symbolic of the enduring India-Oman friendship that has stood the test of time and that is anchored in history, enriched by trade, and strengthened by mutual respect.”
“INSV Kaundinya is a shining example of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership. It was his resolve to revive India’s ancient shipbuilding genius and present it proudly before the world,” he added.
Named after the legendary Indian mariner Kaundinya, the vessel showcases India’s indigenous maritime knowledge, craftsmanship and sustainable shipbuilding practices. The project was envisioned by the prime minister and executed by the Indian Navy with the support of naval architects, archaeologists, traditional shipbuilding designers, and master shipwrights.
Inspired by a fifth-century CE vessel depicted in the Ajanta Cave paintings, INSV Kaundinya was constructed using ancient Indian shipbuilding techniques, including stitched-plank construction without modern nails or metal fastenings.
Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary, Tourism, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism of Oman, along with senior dignitaries from the Indian Navy, Royal Navy of Oman, Royal Oman Police Coast Guard and other ministries were present at the welcome ceremony organised at the port.
A large group of Indian community from all walks of life, including students, enthusiastically welcomed the ship. Traditional Indian and Omani cultural performances were held during the official welcome ceremony.
India and Oman continue to strengthen maritime ties through enhanced connectivity, sustainable shipping initiatives and growing collaboration across ports, shipbuilding and seafaring sectors.
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