The North News
New Delhi, April 5
“India ensures that no nation suppresses another in the IOR through overwhelming economic or military strength,” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Satuday. “Our Navy guarantees the security of both Indian and foreign vessels, operating as a first responder during pirate attacks and hijackings, ” he added. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday flagged off the offshore patrol vessel INS Sunayna at Karwar in Karnataka, as it embarks on the IOS SAGAR mission. The ship, carrying 44 naval personnel from nine partner nations including Kenya, Madagascar, Sri Lanka and Seychelles, represents India’s expanding maritime diplomacy in the region.
Speaking at the event, Singh underscored India’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) as a force for collective security, asserting that the country’s role is not driven solely by self-interest but also by a commitment to equality and sovereign respect among nations.
The mission coincides with both National Maritime Day and the 10th anniversary of the SAGAR initiative. Singh also linked the initiative to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recently launched MAHASAGAR programme — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions — describing IOS SAGAR as a natural progression of India’s maritime vision.
The vessel will visit ports in Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius and Seychelles. Naval personnel from partner countries will receive training in firefighting, navigation, damage control, and maritime security operations, aiming to foster interoperability between the Indian Navy and regional partners.
“This is a proud moment to see India leading regional cooperation on the same date our first merchant vessel, SS Loyalty, set sail in 1919,” Singh said.
In addition to the mission, Singh inaugurated modern maritime infrastructure worth over ₹2,000 crore developed under Project Seabird. The new facilities include piers, armament wharfs, and accommodation units, with 90% of materials sourced domestically, aligning with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
The Karwar base is set to become a hub for India’s naval readiness along the west coast, while also supporting local economic development in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district.
“This initiative will not only strengthen our naval capabilities but also serve as a symbol of shared growth, mutual respect and maritime excellence,” Singh said.
