INS Sudarshini Concludes Successful New York Port Call Under Lokayan 26 Mission

NEW DELHI09 JULY 2026: The Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini has successfully concluded its port visit to New York, marking another key milestone in the ongoing Lokayan 2026 global maritime expedition. The visit highlighted India’s centuries-old seafaring traditions while further enhancing naval cooperation and cultural ties with the United States.

The indigenously built three-masted sailing vessel arrived in New York as part of its 10-month transoceanic deployment and represented India during the International Naval Review 250 and Sail4th 250 celebrations, organised to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American Independence. The participation underscored the growing maritime engagement between India and the US.

One of the defining moments of the visit was INS Sudarshini’s participation in the grand Parade of Sail, where the ship navigated past the iconic Statue of Liberty and sailed along the Hudson River alongside naval vessels and historic tall ships from several countries. Flying the Indian Tricolour, the vessel drew attention as a symbol of India’s maritime traditions and its commitment to international naval friendship.

During its stay at Brooklyn, the ship opened its decks to the public, welcoming more than 1,000 visitors, including members of the Indian diaspora, local residents, students and maritime enthusiasts. Guests explored the vessel and learned about the Indian Navy’s sail training programme, India’s naval history and the country’s evolving maritime capabilities.

The visit also included interactions with senior Indian diplomats. Consul General of India in New York Binaya Srikanta Pradhan and India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Parvathaneni Harish visited the ship, met the officers and crew, and appreciated the Navy’s efforts to strengthen maritime diplomacy while promoting India’s rich nautical heritage on the global stage.

A formal reception and state dinner hosted aboard INS Sudarshini brought together diplomats, defence officials and invited guests, offering another platform to deepen cooperation under the expanding India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

Having successfully completed its New York engagements, INS Sudarshini has now set sail for Boston, where it will participate in the Sail Boston 2026 celebrations. As the Lokayan 2026 expedition progresses, the ship continues to serve as a symbol of India’s maritime excellence, carrying the message of friendship, international cooperation and goodwill across the world’s oceans.