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, receiving a warm welcome from the Sri Lankan Navy. This visit aims to enhance maritime cooperation between the two nations, 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 warmly received by the Sri Lankan Navy. The visit is intended to strengthen maritime ties between the two navies. During the port call, the crew will engage in official interactions and social activities with the Sri Lankan Navy.
The High Commission of India in Sri Lanka noted that Commander Sunil Kulhari, the Commanding Officer of INS Kalpeni, will meet with Rear Admiral Chinthaka Kumarasinghe, Commander of the Western Naval Area. INS Kalpeni, commissioned in 2010, is a Car Nicobar class Waterjet FAC, named after Kalpeni Island in Lakshadweep. It is based in Kochi and specializes in coastal surveillance, anti-smuggling, and search and rescue operations.
The ship’s visit, from October 19-21, 2024, includes delivering technical support tools to the Sri Lankan Navy and engaging in cultural visits around Colombo. This visit further strengthens the bilateral cooperation between the two 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 spares 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 an important place for trade and travel.
Maritime Ties -: Maritime ties refer to the relationship and cooperation between countries in activities related to the sea, like trade, security, and fishing.
SAGAR vision -: SAGAR stands for ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region.’ It is India’s plan to work with other countries around the Indian Ocean to ensure safety and prosperity.
Commander Sunil Kulhari -: Commander Sunil Kulhari is an officer in the Indian Navy who is in charge of the INS Kalpeni during its visit to Sri Lanka.
Rear Admiral Chinthaka Kumarasinghe -: Rear Admiral Chinthaka Kumarasinghe is a high-ranking officer in the Sri Lankan Navy. He will meet with Commander Sunil Kulhari to discuss cooperation between the two navies.
Neighbourhood First policy -: The ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy is India’s approach to prioritize and strengthen relationships with its neighboring countries, like Sri Lanka, for mutual benefit.
