In an exciting build-up to the grand International Fleet Review (IFR) scheduled for February 15, 2026, a unique opportunity has surfaced for naval enthusiasts and the general public. The Times of India (TOI) has forged a partnership with the Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command to launch an engaging weekly competition for its readers.
How the Naval Puzzle Contest Works
The contest is designed as a visual jigsaw puzzle that will test participants' knowledge of the Indian Navy's fleet. For the next five weeks, TOI will publish three different parts or cutouts of a specific Indian Navy ship. Readers must carefully collect these weekly cutouts, assemble them to identify the vessel, and submit their answer.
The first part of the inaugural puzzle is already out. The subsequent two parts for this week's ship will be revealed on the coming Wednesday and Friday. Participants must use all three published cutouts to correctly identify the ship's name.
Entry Rules and Prize Details
To enter the contest and stand a chance to win exclusive Navy memorabilia, participants must follow a specific process. They need to send a complete assembled photo of the ship using all three weekly cutouts, along with the correct ship name, their own name, and postal address to the dedicated email address: Ifr26.indiannavy@gmail.com.
The email's subject line must strictly read: "IFR 2026 competition". It is crucial to note that only entries featuring the correct ship name and the assembled photo using all three provided cutouts will be considered for the weekly prize. Each week, the first 20 correct entries will be shortlisted as winners. The deadline for submissions for the first week's puzzle is January 17, 2026.
An important eligibility clause states that serving naval personnel are not permitted to participate in this contest, ensuring a fair chance for civilian enthusiasts.
A Prelude to the International Fleet Review 2026
This collaborative contest serves as a public engagement initiative ahead of the much-anticipated International Fleet Review 2026, where navies from across the globe will converge. The IFR is a spectacular maritime event that showcases naval prowess and fosters international cooperation. This puzzle competition aims to generate public interest and awareness about the Indian Navy's capabilities and assets in the lead-up to the main event.
By combining the reach of a leading newspaper with the prestige of the Indian Navy, this initiative offers a rare chance for citizens to connect with the nation's maritime defense forces and win a piece of naval history through the memorabilia prizes.
