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Summary:

Visakhapatnam is preparing to host the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 and Milan 2026, major international naval events. District Collector M.N. Harendhira Prasad convened a meeting with district and Naval officials to coordinate efforts for the events, scheduled for February 2026. The events will involve dignitaries from approximately 100 nations and require significant logistical planning, including transportation, accommodation, and security. Key dates include the Milan Village program (Feb 15-20), IFR presided over by the President (Feb 18), city parade and Milan inaugural (Feb 19), harbour phase (Feb 19-20), and sea phase (Feb 21-25). The Collector emphasized the need for timely completion of ongoing infrastructure projects and enhanced security measures.

News Article:

Visakhapatnam Gears Up for International Fleet Review and Milan 2026

VISAKHAPATNAM, November 20, 2025 – Visakhapatnam is preparing to welcome dignitaries and naval vessels from around the globe in February 2026 for the International Fleet Review (IFR) and Milan 2026. District Collector M.N. Harendhira Prasad led a review meeting on Thursday with district and Naval officials to ensure seamless coordination for the high-profile events.

The IFR 2026, a prestigious naval display, is expected to draw participation from approximately 100 friendly nations and high-ranking officials, including the President, Prime Minister, Defence Minister, Governor, and Chief Minister of India. A Naval presentation outlined the IFR-2026 schedule, Milan-2026 organization, and logistical requirements, including transportation and accommodation for the international guests.

Milan 2026, a multilateral naval exercise, will run concurrently with the IFR. The “Milan Village” program is scheduled from February 15 to 20, while President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the IFR on February 18. The city parade and Milan inaugural will be held on February 19, followed by the harbor phase of Milan-2026 on February 19 and 20, and the sea phase from February 21 to 25.

Collector Prasad urged various departments to expedite ongoing infrastructure projects, including those undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), GAIL, and HPCL, as well as city beautification efforts. He also underscored the critical importance of maintaining tight security protocols given the anticipated presence of numerous VIPs.

Joint Collector Mayur Ashok, VMRDA Commissioner Tej Bhart, DCP Manikanta Chandolu, and officials from the Navy, HPCL, GAIL, and BPCL were among those present at the meeting. The city is expected to see increased activity in the coming months as preparations for these major international events ramp up.

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