Lokayan 2026: INS Sudarshini Departs Salalah, Oman After Joint Meet

ndian Navy’s three-masted sail training ship, INS Sudarshini, departed Salalah, Oman, on October 17, 2026. The ship concluded a successful four-day port visit that began on October 14.

The vessel now continues its historic transoceanic voyage, Lokayan 2026. The deployment highlights India’s ancient maritime traditions, trains young naval officer cadets, and deepens diplomatic friendships across foreign waters.

Strengthening India–Oman Naval Ties in Salalah

During the port call in Salalah, officers and trainees onboard INS Sudarshini engaged in joint professional sessions and friendly sporting matches with personnel from the Royal Navy of Oman.

These cross-deck interactions built trust and fostered strong personal connections between the two navies.

India and Oman share deep historical ties in the Indian Ocean region. Visits like this allow both forces to share technical knowledge, practice joint procedures, and strengthen bilateral maritime security.

Lokayan 2026: Building Resilience and Seamanship

Lokayan 2026 serves as a rigorous training journey. Long-distance ocean sailing teaches naval trainees core seamanship, discipline, navigation, and team leadership under tough sea conditions.

As the voyage enters its tenth month, INS Sudarshini continues to showcase the Indian Navy’s spirit of exploration and operational excellence. Trainees gain hands-on experience navigating busy international shipping lanes and handling complex weather changes.

This long-distance deployment honors India's legendary maritime heritage. For centuries, Indian sailors traveled these exact trade routes across the Arabian Sea, spreading trade, culture, and goodwill.

A Maritime Ambassador for "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"

INS Sudarshini acts as a floating ambassador for India throughout Lokayan 2026. Every international port call promotes goodwill and builds lasting partnerships.

The voyage aligns with India’s foundational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (“The World Is One Family”).

The deployment also advances India's strategic vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and All-inclusive Holistic Advancement for Security And Growth Across Regions). MAHASAGAR guides India’s regional maritime approach, focusing on shared safety, economic progress, and collective security.

Core Pillars of the Lokayan 2026 Deployment