INS Sharda completes visit to Colombo and strengthens India-Sri Lanka maritime cooperation

Indian and Sri Lankan navies pose for a group photo as INS Sharda concludes a port call in line with the MAHASAGARA vision in Colombo on Saturday (June 13, 2026). | Photo credit: ANI

The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sharda departed Colombo on June 13 after a successful port call that further strengthened India-Sri Lanka maritime cooperation and friendship.

The visit featured a series of professional, training and sporting engagements between the Indian Navy and the Sri Lankan Navy.

The Indian Navy informed that as part of capacity building initiatives, Sri Lankan personnel on board the ship underwent training in small arms handling, basic fire fighting, first aid and rescue procedures. The tasks were aimed at enhancing operational readiness and promoting greater interoperability between the two naval forces.

During the visit, Rear Admiral Jagath Kumara, Commander, Western Naval Region, Sri Lanka Navy, visited INS Sharda and interacted with the crew, reaffirming the strong maritime partnership between the two countries.

The port also included professional exchanges, cross-deck visits and friendly sports matches, which helped strengthen camaraderie and deepen cooperation between the two navies.

The Commanding Officer of INS Sharda paid a courtesy call on Santosh Jha, the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, during the ship’s stay in Colombo.

The visit underscored the enduring maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka and reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional maritime cooperation and security in line with the vision of MAHASAGAR – Mutual and Holistic Progress for Security and Growth Across Regions.

Published – 14 Jun 2026 21:27 IST