Law Notify, January 15, 2026 : Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Tuesday welcomed the crew of the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Kaundinya at Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat, describing the moment as more than the end of a sea journey and calling it a celebration of centuries-old civilisational links between India and Oman.
The Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways said the arrival of the traditionally built stitched sail vessel in the Omani capital symbolised the enduring friendship between the two countries, rooted in shared history and strengthened over time through trade and mutual respect.
The vessel reached Muscat after completing its maiden voyage from Porbandar, marking a notable milestone in the shared maritime heritage of India and Oman. The voyage underscored cultural, maritime and civilisational connections that stretch back over five thousand years and coincided with the two nations marking seventy years of diplomatic relations.
Named after the legendary Indian mariner Kaundinya, the vessel reflects India’s indigenous maritime knowledge, traditional craftsmanship and emphasis on sustainable shipbuilding practices. The project was envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and executed by the Indian Navy, with contributions from naval architects, archaeologists, traditional designers and master shipwrights.
Sonowal described the vessel as a powerful example of the Prime Minister’s vision to revive India’s ancient shipbuilding legacy and present it confidently on the global stage. The welcome ceremony was attended by Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Tourism at Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy, the Royal Navy of Oman, the Royal Oman Police Coast Guard and other departments. Members of the Indian community, including students, joined the celebrations with traditional Indian and Omani cultural performances.
Outlining future priorities, the Minister spoke about India’s $8.4 billion maritime development package aimed at strengthening the shipbuilding ecosystem through dedicated clusters, focused research and development support and the creation of a Maritime Development Fund. He also proposed the establishment of a green shipping corridor between India and Oman and welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding on maritime heritage and museums to further deepen cooperation and preserve the shared maritime history of the two nations.
