The Indian Navy is participating in the New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) 2026, reaffirming its commitment to preserving and promoting India’s rich maritime heritage. The nine-day mega cultural event is being organised by the National Book Trust (NBT), an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Education, and was inaugurated by the Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan.
The Navy’s participation highlights its role not only as a maritime force but also as a custodian of India’s naval history, traditions, and heritage.
Naval History Division Leads the Initiative
The initiative is being spearheaded by the Naval History Division (NHD), the premier research institution of the Indian Navy. In collaboration with NBT, NHD has set up dedicated Indian Navy stalls featuring:
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Authoritative naval publications
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Official histories of the Indian Navy
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Meticulously crafted scale ship models
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Visual exhibits on naval evolution and traditions
These curated displays offer visitors a vivid insight into the evolution, traditions, and operational excellence of the Indian Navy.
Official Naval Histories and Maritime Literature on Display
At the Navy Pavilion in Hall No. 5, visitors can explore:
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Seven volumes of the official history of the Indian Navy (1945–2021)
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Histories of Indian naval ships, submarines, air squadrons, and establishments
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Publications on India’s broader maritime history
Together, these exhibits present a compelling narrative of India’s maritime journey, blending academic scholarship with visual appeal.
Panel Discussions Enrich Academic Engagement
As part of its academic outreach, the Naval History Division has organised a series of high-level panel discussions:
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On 10 January 2026, a panel on the 1971 War was conducted, moderated by Cdr Neeraj Vashisth, with panelists Cdr Vijai Prakash Kapil, VrC, NM (Retd.), and renowned defence journalist Mr Sandeep Unnithan, offering deep insights into a defining chapter of India’s naval history.
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A panel discussion on ‘Naval Maritime Expeditions: Past and Present’ is scheduled for 11 January 2026 (6:00 PM onwards) at the Theme Pavilion in Hall 5. The session will be moderated by Cdr Kalesh Mohanan, with panelists including Capt Prashant C. Menon and Cdr Neeraj Vashisth.
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Another significant panel titled ‘Creating Rule-Based Order: The Role of Indian Navy’ is scheduled for 14 January 2026, moderated by Associate Professor Abhimanyu Singh Arha, with insights from Lt Cdr Anupama Thapliyal and Lt Jeevitesh Saharan, highlighting the Navy’s strategic role in the Indian Ocean Region.
Book Release by Chief of the Naval Staff
A major highlight of the Book Fair will be the release of a new book on the Indian Navy, prepared by the Naval History Division. The publication will be unveiled by the Chief of the Naval Staff at a special event during the fair.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond exhibitions and scholarly discussions, NHD is actively engaging with young visitors, encouraging boys and girls to consider a career in the Indian Navy. The Navy’s publications, displays, and interactive stalls have already attracted significant interest from students, educators, and the general public.
Conclusion
Through its vibrant presence at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026, the Indian Navy is strengthening public awareness of India’s enduring maritime legacy, promoting historical scholarship, and inspiring future generations to connect with the nation’s naval heritage.
The Indian Navy has invited all visitors to the Book Fair to explore its pavilion and learn more about its proud service and India’s timeless maritime tradition.
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Source: PIB
