Why in News?
- Embarked on a 10-month deployment from Kochi in January 2026, covering over 22,000 nautical miles and visiting 18 ports in 13 countries to promote maritime diplomacy and India's "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" vision.
- First international port call at Salalah, Oman, strengthening India-Oman ties through naval engagements and cultural exchanges.
- Will participate in key events like Escale à Sète in France and SAIL 250 in New York, showcasing India's seafaring heritage.
About
- Second sail training ship of the Indian Navy, a sister to INS Tarangini, indigenously built by Goa Shipyard Limited.
- Commissioned on January 27, 2012, at Kochi under Southern Naval Command; named after Buddha's half-sister, meaning "beautiful lady."
- Used for training sailors in seamanship, character building, and survival in harsh sea conditions.
Features
- Operates under sail or power with very high endurance, deployable at sea for up to 20 continuous days.
- Steel hull built for worldwide operations, focusing on basic seamanship and environmental adaptability.
- Enables professional interactions, data gathering on electromagnetic transmissions, and demonstration of India's shipbuilding prowess.
Significance
- Lokayan 26 enhances India's global maritime presence, fosters international cooperation, and tests crew resilience while projecting naval soft power.
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