In a significant boost to India's maritime capabilities and its self-reliance drive, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissioned the Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Samudra Pratap in Goa on January 5, 2026. This event marks the induction of the service's first indigenously built Pollution Control Vessel (PCV), a flagship project under the Make in India initiative.
A Vessel Built on Indigenous Strength
Minister Singh proudly highlighted that over 60% of the materials and components used in constructing the Samudra Pratap are sourced domestically. He described the vessel's commissioning as a crucial milestone in the nation's journey towards 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' or a self-reliant India. The ship stands as a tangible result of the government's focused efforts to bolster indigenous defence manufacturing and reduce dependency on foreign imports.
Specifications and Multifaceted Role
The ICGS Samudra Pratap is an engineering marvel, now holding the title of the largest ship in the Indian Coast Guard fleet. It measures an impressive 115 meters in length and has a displacement of 4,170 tonnes. Designed for rapid response, it can achieve a top speed of 22 knots.
While its primary role is pollution control and ensuring coastal cleanliness, the Defence Minister outlined the vessel's broader, multifaceted duties. These include critical functions like search and rescue operations and maritime law enforcement. The Samudra Pratap significantly enhances the Coast Guard's ability to protect India's vast maritime interests and respond effectively to environmental hazards at sea.
Strengthening India's Maritime Borders
Rajnath Singh used the occasion to commend the Indian Coast Guard for its growing prowess. He stated that the force has instilled such formidable strength that any threat to India's maritime borders will be met with a firm and decisive response. The addition of a powerful, homegrown asset like the Samudra Pratap directly contributes to this deterrence capability, safeguarding national security and economic interests in the maritime domain.
The commissioning of the ICGS Samudra Pratap is more than just the addition of a new ship; it is a statement of India's growing industrial and technological capabilities. It reinforces the Coast Guard's operational readiness and underscores the government's commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in defence production.
