New Delhi, Dec 29 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday hailed the commencement of the maiden voyage of INSV Kaundinya, a unique stitched ship built using ancient Indian techniques, calling it a proud moment that highlights India’s rich maritime traditions and historic links with the Gulf region.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said it was “wonderful to see” the vessel embark on its first journey from Porbandar in Gujarat to Muscat in Oman, retracing centuries-old sea routes that once connected India with West Asia and beyond.
“Built using the ancient Indian stitched-ship technique, this ship highlights India’s rich maritime traditions,” PM Modi said.
“I congratulate the designers, artisans, shipbuilders and the Indian Navy for their dedicated efforts in bringing this unique vessel to life.”
Wishing the crew well, the Prime Minister added that the voyage symbolised India’s historical and civilisational ties with the Gulf region.
“My best wishes to the crew for a safe and memorable journey, as they retrace our historic links with the Gulf region and beyond,” he said.
INSV Kaundinya has been constructed based on depictions found on ancient seals, sculptures and literary sources, particularly those linked to the Indus Valley Civilisation and early Indian maritime activity. Unlike modern ships, the vessel has been built using the stitched-ship technique, where wooden planks are stitched together using coir rope instead of nails, a method believed to have been used by Indian seafarers thousands of years ago.
The project involved close collaboration between traditional artisans, historians, designers and the Indian Navy, and is seen as a major effort to revive and showcase India’s indigenous shipbuilding knowledge.
Officials have said the voyage from Porbandar to Muscat is not merely a naval expedition but a cultural and historical mission, underscoring India’s long-standing maritime exchanges with Oman and the wider Gulf region in trade, culture and people-to-people ties.
The Indian Navy has played a key role in supporting the design, construction and operational readiness of the vessel, while ensuring that traditional methods were preserved alongside modern safety standards.
The journey of INSV Kaundinya is expected to draw international attention to India’s ancient seafaring legacy and reinforce the country’s emphasis on cultural diplomacy and heritage-led initiatives on the global stage.
PM Modi hails maiden voyage of ancient-style ship INSV Kaundinya
