Indian Navy Launches MILAN Village in Visakhapatnam to Foster Global Maritime Bonds.

VISAKHAPATNAM: Marking the commencement of the high-profile international naval exercise MILAN 2026, the Indian Navy inaugurated the “MILAN Village” at the Eastern Naval Command on Sunday. The ceremony was led by Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, who dedicated the facility as a hub for cultural and social exchange among participating nations.

The MILAN Village is designed as an experiential zone to bring together delegates and naval personnel from over 70 countries. While Exercise MILAN focuses on professional maritime interoperability, the Village serves as a platform for “Camaraderie, Cooperation, and Collaboration.” It offers international visitors an immersive look at India’s rich heritage through traditional folk dances, live musical performances, and various cultural ensembles.

The venue features numerous stalls showcasing indigenous handicrafts, handloom products, and naval souvenirs from across India, alongside a diverse array of regional cuisines. This cultural showcase coincides with a series of major maritime events in Visakhapatnam, including the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 and the IONS Conclave of Chiefs.

Exercise MILAN 2026, scheduled from February 15 to 25, stands as one of the largest multilateral naval drills in the Indo-Pacific. It aims to strengthen collective response capabilities through complex sea maneuvers, air defense, and anti-submarine warfare. The event aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s MAHASAGAR vision, reinforcing India’s role as a proactive stakeholder in maintaining a rules-based, inclusive, and secure maritime domain. (PIB)

For more details: Navamalayalam.com