TOI Launches Unique Naval History Contest Ahead of International Fleet Review 2026
In an exciting collaboration with the Eastern Naval Command, The Times of India (TOI) has launched a special competition that invites readers to become part of India's proud naval history. This initiative comes just ahead of the highly anticipated International Fleet Review (IFR), scheduled to commence on February 15, 2026, which will see participation from navies across the globe.
How the Naval Ship Identification Contest Works
The contest, which is now in its final two weeks, presents a unique challenge for participants. Each week, TOI publishes three different cutout parts of a specific Indian Navy ship. Readers are tasked with identifying the name or class of the ship by assembling these parts and submitting their answers.
To participate effectively, follow these guidelines:
- Collect all three cutouts published each week
- Assemble them to form a complete photo of the ship
- Identify the correct name or class of the vessel
- Email your entry to ifr26.indiannavy@gmail.com with the subject line "IFR 2026 competition"
- Include your name and postal address in the email
Important note: Only entries that include both the correctly identified ship name/class AND an assembled photo using all three weekly cutouts will be considered valid. The first 20 correct entries received each week will be eligible for prizes.
Current Week's Challenge and Deadline
This week marks the first part of the fourth week's jigsaw puzzle. Participants must submit their answers by February 7, 2026, to be considered for that week's prizes. Winners will receive exclusive memorabilia from the Indian Navy as rewards for their naval knowledge and participation.
Eligibility restriction: Naval personnel are not eligible to participate in this competition, ensuring fair opportunities for civilian enthusiasts.
Overwhelming Response and Week 2 Winners Announced
The IFR 2026 contest has generated tremendous interest among readers, with an overwhelming response received across the country. TOI is pleased to announce the 20 winners from Week 2 of the competition.
Week 2 Winners (Answer: INS Nistar):
- Kotra Lohith Raj, Hyderabad
- Shalabh Agarwal, Hyderabad
- Priyanshu Parida, Visakhapatnam
- Vivan Varshney, Hyderabad
- Narsimha Rao Kalyani, Mahabubnagar
- Geetha Vemula, Hyderabad
- GNP Kaladhar, Visakhapatnam
- Tejas Sheha, Secunderabad
- Vivek Upadhyaya, Secunderabad
- Dhanush Reddy Gaddam, Hyderabad
- Chandapu Varshini, Visakhapatnam
- K Juhi Sanjay, Kakinada
- Rongali Pavithranath, Visakhapatnam
- Anuranjani Narain, Hyderabad
- Vaibhav Sharma, Sainikpuri
- Santosh Chandu, Vijayawada
- Soni Pandit, Visakhapatnam
- Krishna Kumar Yadav, Secunderabad
- N Sri Krishna Rao, Hyderabad
- Divija Sharma, Hyderabad
The geographical distribution of winners highlights widespread participation from across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with particularly strong representation from Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam.
About the International Fleet Review 2026
The International Fleet Review 2026 represents a significant moment in India's naval diplomacy and maritime showcase. Scheduled to begin on February 15, 2026, this global event will feature navies from numerous countries participating in what promises to be a spectacular display of naval power and cooperation.
This TOI competition serves as both an engaging public participation initiative and an educational opportunity for citizens to learn more about India's naval assets and heritage ahead of this important international event.
Readers interested in participating should regularly check TOI publications for the weekly cutouts and contest updates. With only two weeks remaining in the competition, this represents a final opportunity for naval enthusiasts to test their knowledge and potentially win exclusive Indian Navy memorabilia.
