New Delhi, July 9: Indian Naval Sail Training Ship INS Sudarshini has successfully concluded its port call at New York, United States, marking another major milestone in the Lokayan 2026 transoceanic expedition. The visit highlighted India’s rich maritime heritage while reinforcing the growing strategic and cultural partnership between India and the United States.
As part of the Indian Navy’s 10-month global deployment, the indigenously built three-masted sailing vessel represented India at the International Naval Review 250 and Sail4th 250 celebrations, organised to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence.
Spectacular Parade of Sail
One of the highlights of the visit was INS Sudarshini’s participation in the prestigious Parade of Sail, where the ship sailed past the iconic Statue of Liberty and along the Hudson River, proudly flying the Indian Tricolour alongside naval ships and tall sailing vessels from several countries.
The event showcased India’s maritime traditions on one of the world’s biggest international naval platforms.
Floating Ambassador of India
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 introduced to the Indian Navy’s sail training traditions, India’s maritime history and the ship’s role in promoting international goodwill.
Distinguished Visitors Onboard
The ship hosted several eminent dignitaries, including:
- Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York.
- Parvathaneni Harish, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations.
The dignitaries interacted with the crew and appreciated INS Sudarshini’s contribution to promoting India’s maritime legacy and strengthening India-US maritime cooperation.
State Dinner Strengthens Bilateral Ties
A State Dinner hosted onboard brought together senior diplomats, military officials and distinguished guests, providing another opportunity to deepen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership through maritime diplomacy and people-to-people engagement.
Next Stop: Boston
Following the successful 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 ship continues its Lokayan 2026 voyage, carrying the Indian Navy’s message of friendship, maritime cooperation and goodwill across the world’s oceans while showcasing India’s centuries-old seafaring tradition on the global stage.