The Ministry of Defence announced that the Indian Navy’s sail training vessel INS Sudarshini has departed from the Italian port of Livorno on 12 September 2026, following a port visit. The ship is part of Lokayan 2026, a voyage designed to build maritime ties between India and other nations. During the stop in Italy, the vessel engaged in training exchanges and official interactions with the Italian Navy and local authorities.
Details of the port call and interactions
INS Sudarshini spent time in Livorno conducting professional meetings and cross-training activities with Italian naval forces. The Chief of the Italian Navy, Admiral Giuseppe Berutti Bergotto, boarded the Indian vessel and met with its crew and trainee sailors. He received briefings on the ship’s journey and its ongoing training programmes.
The ship’s commanding officer visited the Italian Naval Academy and met with its commandant, Rear Admiral Alberto Tarabotto, to exchange accounts from the expedition. Local officials including the Mayor of Livorno and the Vice Prefect also met with naval representatives.
As part of the training exchange programme, Indian naval trainees visited Italian naval facilities including ITS Virginio Fasan and the Italian Naval Academy. In return, Italian naval personnel visited INS Sudarshini to observe its operations. A formal reception was held on the ship’s deck, attended by senior Italian officers, civic authorities, and diplomatic officials.
What this means for you
Lokayan 2026 forms part of India’s broader MAHASAGAR initiative, which seeks to strengthen security and development cooperation with countries across different regions. The voyage demonstrates how India uses naval training ships to build lasting professional and diplomatic relationships with partner nations. Such exchanges help Indian naval personnel gain international exposure while showcasing India’s maritime capabilities and commitment to regional cooperation.