India has inducted another advanced indigenous warship into its naval fleet with the commissioning of INS Mahendragiri. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh formally inducted the stealth frigate into the Indian Navy during a special ceremony held at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. The event was marked by a ceremonial guard of honour presented to the Defence Minister by naval personnel.
INS Mahendragiri is the sixth stealth frigate of the Project-17A Nilgiri-class and has been designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB). The vessel was built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and is the fourth and final Project-17A warship constructed by the shipyard. The warship represents another milestone in India’s efforts to strengthen its indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Rajnath Singh described INS Mahendragiri as a matter of pride for both the nation and the Indian Navy. He said the fully indigenous warship reflects the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and showcases the growing capabilities of India’s defence industry and MSME sector. He added that the warship will play a vital role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests and enhancing peace, stability, and security across the Indo-Pacific region.
