INS Sudarshini showcases India’s maritime heritage during New York port call
New Delhi, July 9. Indian Naval Sail Training Ship (STS) INS Sudarshini concluded a high-profile port call at New York on July 8, marking a key milestone in the Indian Navy’s Lokayan 2026 transoceanic expedition while showcasing India’s rich maritime heritage and reinforcing the growing strategic and cultural partnership between India and the United States.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the indigenously built three-masted barque participated in the International Naval Review 250 and Sail4th 250 celebrations, organised to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence. The ship’s participation formed part of the Indian Navy’s ongoing 10-month transoceanic deployment aimed at promoting maritime cooperation and goodwill.
One of the highlights of the visit was INS Sudarshini’s participation in the spectacular Parade of Sail, during which the vessel sailed past the iconic Statue of Liberty and along the Hudson River, proudly flying the Indian Tricolour alongside an international fleet of tall ships and naval vessels.
During its stay at Brooklyn, INS Sudarshini served as a floating ambassador of India, welcoming more than 1,000 visitors, including members of the Indian diaspora, local residents and maritime enthusiasts. Visitors were given an insight into India’s rich maritime traditions and the Indian Navy’s sail training practices.
The ship also received several distinguished visitors, including Consul General of India in New York Binaya Srikanta Pradhan and India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Parvathaneni Harish. They interacted with the crew and lauded the vessel’s role in promoting India’s maritime legacy while fostering stronger people-to-people and maritime ties between the two countries.
A state dinner hosted on board brought together senior diplomats, military officials and other distinguished guests, providing an opportunity to further strengthen the expanding India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.
Following the successful completion of its engagements in New York, INS Sudarshini departed for Boston, where it will participate in the forthcoming Sail Boston 2026 celebrations.
The Ministry of Defence said the vessel will continue carrying the Indian Navy’s message of friendship, maritime cooperation and goodwill across the oceans as part of the Lokayan 2026 expedition.
