INSV Kaundinya: India's Maritime Resurgence, Women's Empowerment, and Global Diplomacy

• Sanjeev Sanyal conceptualized the INSV Kaundinya mission, presenting it to PM Modi to revive India's ancient maritime consciousness and strategic resurgence.
• Named after the 1st-century Indian navigator Kaundinya, the voyage followed ancient trade routes, symbolizing India's historical ties with Southeast Asia and peaceful maritime expansion.
• The mission integrated with 'Nari Shakti' vision, showcasing two women officers circumnavigating the globe, highlighting India's modern technological capabilities and acting as a soft power tool.
• INSV Kaundinya, an indigenous 'Make in India' vessel, demonstrates self-reliance and modern technological prowess, capable of navigating challenging global sea routes.
• Women officers underwent rigorous training, collected marine health data for climate change research, and navigated extreme conditions, inspiring a new generation in sailing.

Why It Matters: INSV Kaundinya symbolizes India's maritime revival, women's empowerment, and scientific diplomacy on a global scale.