Amaravati, February 16: The Indian Navy has launched the MILAN Village in Visakhapatnam as the cultural heart of a major global maritime gathering.
Inaugurated by Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, the village features nearly 50 stalls showcasing handlooms, handicrafts, traditional artefacts, and cuisine from Andhra Pradesh and across India.
Local elements include Etikoppaka toys and Lepakshi art, alongside cultural performances to foster ties among participants.
This setup supports the unprecedented triad: the International Fleet Review on February 18 (reviewed by President Droupadi Murmu, involving 71 ships including INS Vikrant and 19 foreign warships), Exercise MILAN 2026 from February 18-25 (with 65 navies), and the IONS Conclave. An International City Parade follows on February 19 with 45 contingents.
