In a significant high-level briefing, the chief of India's Eastern Naval Command met with the President of India to discuss crucial maritime security and outline grand preparations for major international naval events scheduled for Visakhapatnam in 2026.
High-Level Briefing at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command (ENC), along with Priya Bhalla, President of the Navy Wives Welfare Association (Eastern Region), recently called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. As the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, President Murmu was apprised of the current maritime security scenario in the region.
The Admiral reaffirmed the high state of readiness and robust morale of the Sunrise Command. The central focus of the discussion was the elaborate preparations underway for a series of prestigious international events set to put Visakhapatnam on the global naval map.
Vizag Gears Up for Grand Naval Confluence
The city of Visakhapatnam is preparing to host a spectacular gathering of global naval power from February 15 to 25, 2026. The events include the International Fleet Review (IFR), Exercise MILAN 26, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (Conclave of Chiefs).
President Droupadi Murmu will be the Chief Guest for the Fleet Review, which is expected to feature an impressive display of over 70 ships from India and Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs). The biennial Exercise MILAN will see multiple high-level engagements with senior delegations from numerous partner nations.
In a separate meeting a few days prior, Visakhapatnam District Collector MN Harendhira Prasad coordinated with ENC officials, led by Captain Akhilesh Manor, to align civil administration efforts. The district's pivotal role in ensuring the success of these events was strongly emphasized, with action points for all stakeholders being discussed.
A City-Wide Spectacle of Operational and Cultural Display
Beyond the strategic engagements, the events promise a public spectacle. The International City Parade (ICP) on Vizag's iconic RK Beach will be a major highlight. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu will grace the ICP as Chief Guest.
The ICP is designed to be a vibrant showcase featuring:
- An operational demonstration by the Indian Navy.
- Marching contingents from various participating nations.
- Cultural performances and tableaus.
- Active participation from NCC, SCC, and schoolchildren.
The events will witness a grand confluence of naval ships, Chiefs of Navies, and senior delegations from across the world. The guest list is also expected to include senior national political leadership, such as the Andhra Pradesh Governor, the Defence Minister, and the Chief Minister.
These preparations underscore Visakhapatnam's strategic importance as a naval hub and India's commitment to fostering international maritime cooperation. The 2026 events are poised to be a landmark moment for the city and the Indian Navy's Eastern Command.
