Sonowal Greets INSV Kaundinya Crew at Muscat’s Port Sultan Qaboos

An important milestone in the shared maritime history of Oman and India was reached on Wednesday when the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel INSV Kaundinya completed its maiden voyage from Porbandar and arrived in Muscat, the capital of Oman. At Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat, Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), welcomed the ship and its crew.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways said,

“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.”

It also emphasizes how the oceans have served as conduits for long-term communication between India and Oman. As both nations celebrate 70 years of diplomatic ties, the expedition takes on additional significance. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal stated,

“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 highlights India’s traditional maritime knowledge, craftsmanship, and sustainable shipbuilding practices. The prime minister envisioned the project, and the Indian Navy executed it with help from naval architects, archaeologists, traditional shipbuilding designers, and master shipwrights.

INSV Kaundinya took inspiration from a fifth-century CE vessel shown in the Ajanta Cave paintings. It was built using ancient Indian shipbuilding techniques, including stitched-plank construction without modern nails or metal fasteners. Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Tourism in the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism of Oman, was present at the welcome ceremony, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy, Royal Navy of Oman, Royal Oman Police Coast Guard, and other ministries.

A large group from the Indian community, including students, welcomed the ship with enthusiasm. Traditional Indian and Omani cultural performances took place during the official welcome ceremony. India and Oman are strengthening maritime ties through improved connectivity, sustainable shipping initiatives, and growing collaboration in ports, shipbuilding, and seafaring sectors.

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