India Revives Maritime Heritage with INSV Kaundinya as MoD and Culture Ministry Sign MoU

The Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Culture have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to initiate the Stitched Ship Project. This agreement marks the ceremonial launch of the INSV Kaundinya, a traditional wooden sailing vessel constructed without the use of modern welding or riveting techniques.

The main objective of the project is to revive India's ancient shipbuilding craftsmanship and highlight the nation's extensive maritime heritage. According to the MoU, the Indian Navy will take charge of the maintenance and operation of the ship, as well as managing the crew and planning its voyages.

Later this year, INSV Kaundinya is set to embark on a journey to Oman, following age-old trade and cultural pathways across the Indian Ocean. The voyage is intended to highlight India's maritime legacy, promote cultural connections, and spark interest in traditional shipbuilding methods.

This initiative represents a distinctive collaboration between defence and cultural sectors, uniting heritage conservation with operational proficiency. It underscores India's longstanding association with maritime endeavors.