INS Kalpeni Visits Colombo to Strengthen India-Sri Lanka Maritime Ties
The Indian Navy’s ship, INS Kalpeni, arrived in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on October 19, 2024, and was warmly welcomed by the Sri Lankan Navy. This visit aims to enhance maritime cooperation between the two countries, aligning with India’s SAGAR vision, which stands for Security and Growth for All in the Region.
The Indian Navy shared on social media that the Water Jet Fast Attack Craft INS Kalpeni was greeted by the Sri Lankan Navy. The visit is part of efforts to strengthen maritime ties between the two navies. During the port call, the crew of INS Kalpeni will engage in official interactions and social activities with the Sri Lankan Navy.
The High Commission of India in Sri Lanka noted that the ship was received with traditional naval honors. Commander Sunil Kulhari, the Commanding Officer of INS Kalpeni, will meet with Rear Admiral Chinthaka Kumarasinghe, Commander of the Western Naval Area, during the visit.
INS Kalpeni, a Car Nicobar class Waterjet Fast Attack Craft, was commissioned on October 14, 2010. Named after Kalpeni Island in Lakshadweep, the ship is based in Kochi and specializes in coastal surveillance, anti-smuggling operations, and search and rescue missions. The ship’s visit from October 19-21, 2024, includes delivering technical support tools to the Sri Lankan Navy and exploring Colombo.
This visit further strengthens the cooperation between the Indian and Sri Lankan navies, supporting India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the Prime Minister’s SAGAR vision. Earlier in January 2024, INS Kabra, a similar ship, visited Colombo and provided spare parts to the Sri Lankan Navy and Air Force.
Doubts Revealed
INS Kalpeni -: INS Kalpeni is a ship that belongs to the Indian Navy. It is used to keep an eye on the coast and stop illegal activities like smuggling.
Colombo -: Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, which is a country near India. It is a place where ships often visit for trade and cooperation.
Maritime Ties -: Maritime ties refer to the relationship and cooperation between countries in activities related to the sea, like trade, security, and naval exercises.
SAGAR vision -: SAGAR stands for ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region.’ It is an idea by India to work together with other countries around the Indian Ocean for safety and development.
Sri Lankan Navy -: The Sri Lankan Navy is the part of Sri Lanka’s military that protects the country’s waters. They work to keep the sea safe from threats and help in emergencies.
Coastal Surveillance -: Coastal surveillance means watching over the coastal areas to ensure safety and security. It helps in detecting any illegal activities or threats near the shore.
Anti-smuggling Operations -: Anti-smuggling operations are efforts to stop the illegal movement of goods, like drugs or weapons, across borders. Ships like INS Kalpeni help in these operations by patrolling the sea.
Technical Support Tools -: Technical support tools are equipment and resources provided to help with maintenance and operations. In this context, they are given to the Sri Lankan Navy to assist them in their duties.
