Union Minister of State (Defence) Sanjay Seth flagged off INS Sunayna, an Offshore Patrol Vessel of the Indian Navy, from Mumbai this afternoon. Setting sail as Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR, the ship has onboard naval personnel from India and sixteen maritime forces of Friendly Foreign Countries.
Addressing the gathering, Mr Seth underscored that the IOS SAGAR initiative is a reflection of India’s collective vision of ‘leadership through partnership, strength through unity, and progress through peace.’ Highlighting the recent return of INSV Kaundinya from Oman, symbolising the growing maritime cooperation between the two countries, the minister said IOS SAGAR carries forward the same spirit of engagement, expanding it into a broader and more inclusive framework of regional partnerships.
Stating that IOS SAGAR is a practical and operational expression of vision MAHASAGAR – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions, Mr Seth said the initiative brings together partner nations on a shared platform for training, collaboration, and collective readiness, demonstrating that maritime security is most effective when it is built through cooperation and shared responsibility.
Also present on the occasion, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi said the coming together of 16 like-minded maritime countries for a shared purpose and collective commitment through IOS SAGAR is rare and significant. Highlighting the evolving maritime landscape marked by increasing contestation, piracy, narco-trafficking and emerging competition over critical resources, the Navy Chief underscored the need for collaborative approaches to ensure a free, open and secure Indian Ocean.
