By Mewati Sitaram
Indian Naval Ship Kuthar, an indigenously built Khukri-class Corvette, arrived at Colombo Port on 3rd March 2025 for a three-day visit. The ship was warmly welcomed by the Sri Lankan Navy with a traditional ceremony, including a performance by the Navy band. Upon arrival, Commander Nitin Sharma of INS Kuthar met with Rear Admiral MHCJ Silva, Commander of the Western Naval Area.
During the visit, INS Kuthar formally handed over a refilled fire-fighting system cylinder to Sri Lanka Coast Guard Ship Suraksha, which was originally transferred from India in 2017. India has previously provided spare parts and similar assistance to Suraksha in 2021, 2022, and 2024.
INS Kuthar’s stay will include professional interactions with the Sri Lanka Navy, demonstrations on Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operations, and joint sports and yoga activities. The visit is aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two navies in addressing maritime security challenges in the region. INS Kuthar is scheduled to depart on 6th March 2025.
This visit follows the Indian Coast Guard Ships Vaibhav and Abhiraj’s visit to Sri Lanka in December 2024. Such visits support India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and Prime Minister’s vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
