INSV Kaundinya to Begin Maiden Overseas Voyage, Reviving India’s Ancient Maritime Legacy

INSV Kaundinya and India’s Maritime Revival

INSV Kaundinya , the Indian Navy’s distinctive stitched sailing vessel inspired by ancient Indian shipbuilding traditions, is set to undertake its maiden overseas voyage on December 29, 2025 . The historic expedition marks a symbolic reaffirmation of India’s long-standing maritime heritage and its civilisational connections across the Indian Ocean region .

Historic Flag-Off from Porbandar

The vessel will be flagged off from Porbandar in Gujarat and will sail to Muscat in Oman , retracing maritime routes that once linked the Indian subcontinent with West Asia. These sea lanes historically enabled extensive trade, cultural interaction and diplomatic exchanges, highlighting India’s role as a major maritime civilisation long before the modern era.

Revival of Stitched Shipbuilding Tradition

INSV Kaundinya has been constructed entirely using the ancient stitched-plank shipbuilding technique , once prevalent along India’s coastline. In this method, wooden planks are stitched together using coconut coir rope and sealed with natural resins , without employing metal nails or fastenings. This flexible yet resilient technology allowed ancient Indian mariners to undertake long-distance ocean voyages to Africa, Southeast Asia and West Asia , even in rough sea conditions.

Collaborative Rediscovery of Indigenous Knowledge

The project was executed under a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding involving the Ministry of Culture , the Indian Navy and M/s Hodi Innovations . The vessel was built by traditional artisans under the guidance of master shipwright Babu Sankaran , with research support, design validation and rigorous seaworthiness testing provided by the Indian Navy and academic institutions. The ship is fully capable of sustained ocean navigation.

Symbolic and Cultural Significance

Named after Kaundinya , a legendary ancient Indian mariner associated with early voyages to Southeast Asia, the vessel symbolises India’s deep-rooted maritime identity. INSV Kaundinya represents a convergence of history, craftsmanship and modern naval expertise, reinforcing India’s efforts to showcase indigenous knowledge systems while strengthening maritime and cultural diplomacy in the Indian Ocean world.

Important Facts for Exams

• INSV Kaundinya uses the stitched-plank shipbuilding technique

• Coconut coir rope and natural resins replace metal fastenings

• Maiden overseas voyage: Porbandar to Muscat

• Project involved the Ministry of Culture and Indian Navy