The voyage of INSV Kaundinya underscores the historic role of the Indian Ocean as a bridge between India and Oman. For millennia, these waters facilitated trade, cultural exchange, and the movement of ideas, shaping civilisations on both shores.
Addressing the gathering, Sarbananda Sonowal described the arrival of the vessel as more than a nautical achievement. He said it symbolised an enduring friendship anchored in history, enriched by commerce, and strengthened by mutual respect. The Minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for reviving India’s ancient shipbuilding legacy and presenting it to the world with pride.
INSV Kaundinya: A Tribute to India’s Maritime Genius
Named after the legendary Indian mariner Kaundinya, the vessel showcases India’s indigenous maritime knowledge and sustainable shipbuilding practices. The project was conceptualised under the guidance of the Prime Minister and executed by the Indian Navy in collaboration with naval architects, archaeologists, traditional shipbuilders, and master shipwrights.
Inspired by a fifth-century CE vessel depicted in the Ajanta Cave paintings, INSV Kaundinya has been constructed using ancient stitched-plank techniques. Notably, the vessel uses no modern nails or metal fastenings, reflecting environmentally conscious and time-tested shipbuilding methods.
Warm Welcome Reflects Shared Heritage
The welcome ceremony at Port Sultan Qaboos was attended by senior dignitaries from both nations. His Excellency Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Tourism at Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, was present along with officials from the Indian Navy, the Royal Navy of Oman, and the Royal Oman Police Coast Guard.
Members of the Indian diaspora in Oman, including students and professionals, gathered in large numbers to greet the vessel. Traditional Indian and Omani cultural performances highlighted the deep cultural connections that continue to bind the two nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Maritime Cooperation
During his visit, Sarbananda Sonowal held bilateral talks with Oman’s Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, H.E. Eng. Said bin Hamood bin Said Al Mawali. Discussions focused on expanding cooperation across ports, shipping, logistics, and maritime infrastructure.
The Minister highlighted opportunities for Omani companies to participate in India’s rapidly expanding port-led development initiatives. He outlined major projects under the Public-Private Partnership framework, including the Vadhavan Port project in Maharashtra, estimated at $9 billion with a planned capacity of 23 million TEUs, and the Tuticorin Outer Harbour project in Tamil Nadu, valued at $1.3 billion.
Green Shipping and Future Collaboration
Emphasising sustainability, Sarbananda Sonowal proposed the establishment of a Green Shipping Corridor between India and Oman. The initiative aims to promote cleaner fuels, energy-efficient vessels, and environmentally responsible maritime practices.
He also detailed India’s $8.4 billion maritime development package, which focuses on shipbuilding clusters, research and development support, shipbuilding-led industrialisation, and the creation of a Maritime Development Fund. These measures, he said, open new avenues for bilateral investment and collaboration.
Preserving Shared Maritime Heritage
The Minister welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between India and Oman on maritime heritage and museums. The agreement is expected to deepen cultural cooperation and preserve the rich seafaring history shared by the two nations.
As INSV Kaundinya rests in Muscat, it stands as a powerful reminder that ancient maritime wisdom continues to inspire modern diplomacy and sustainable development. India and Oman, connected by history and the Indian Ocean, are now charting a shared course toward deeper cooperation and greener seas.