New Delhi, 09 July (H.S.): India's Sail Training Ship (STS) INS Sudarshini represented the country at the International Naval Review held to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States' independence. As part of its transoceanic deployment, the vessel completed its port call at New York, showcasing India's rich maritime heritage while further strengthening the strategic and cultural partnership between India and the United States.

As part of its transoceanic mission, India has deployed the indigenously built three-masted Sail Training Ship (STS) INS Sudarshini on a 10-month overseas voyage. The 54-metre-long vessel is primarily designed to provide young naval cadets with hands-on training in traditional seamanship and navigation under real sea conditions. On July 8, INS Sudarshini participated in the United States' 250th Independence anniversary celebrations and represented India at the International Naval Review organised to mark the historic occasion.

The highlight of the visit was INS Sudarshini's participation in the spectacular Parade of Sail, during which the ship sailed past the Statue of Liberty and along the Hudson River, proudly flying the Indian Tricolour alongside an impressive fleet of international tall ships and naval vessels.

During its stay at Brooklyn, INS Sudarshini served as India's floating ambassador, welcoming more than 1,000 visitors, including members of the Indian diaspora and maritime enthusiasts. Visitors were introduced to the Indian Navy's sail training traditions and India's rich maritime legacy.

The ship also hosted several distinguished visitors, including Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, and Parvathaneni Harish, India's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations. They interacted with the crew and appreciated the ship's role in promoting India's maritime heritage and strengthening maritime ties between the two countries.

A formal reception hosted on board brought together senior diplomats, military officials, and other distinguished guests, providing another opportunity to reinforce the India–US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

Following its successful New York port call, INS Sudarshini departed for Boston, where it will participate in the Sail Boston celebrations. As part of the Lokayan-2026 expedition, the vessel continues to carry the Indian Navy's message of friendship, maritime cooperation, and goodwill across the world's oceans.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar