Goa: Marking a significant milestone in India’s push for Aatmanirbharta in shipbuilding and maritime capability, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday commissioned Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Samudra Pratap in Goa. The vessel is the first of two Pollution Control Vessels constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited for the Indian Coast Guard.
Built with more than 60% indigenous content, ICGS Samudra Pratap is India’s first indigenously designed pollution control vessel and currently the largest ship in the Coast Guard’s fleet. Its induction is expected to considerably enhance the ICG’s operational reach in pollution response, fire-fighting, maritime safety, environmental protection, and long-duration surveillance missions across the country’s expansive maritime zones.
Describing the ship as a symbol of India’s evolved defence manufacturing ecosystem, the minister said the country now possesses the capability to successfully execute complex industrial projects. He added that sustained efforts are underway to raise the indigenous content of warships and specialised vessels to nearly 90%.
“ICGS Samudra Pratap has been specially designed for pollution control, but its role is not limited to this alone. As multiple capabilities have been integrated into a single platform, the ship will prove to be effective in coastal patrol, and strengthen maritime safety. It is a product of the modern approach adopted by the GSL to enhance flexibility and readiness to deal with present-day maritime challenges,” said Singh.
The minister lauded the Indian Coast Guard for its multifaceted responsibilities, ranging from marine pollution mitigation and coastal cleanliness to search and rescue operations and maritime law enforcement. He noted that the ICG’s performance sends a clear message to adversaries that any attempt to threaten India’s maritime security would be met with a strong and decisive response.
The vessel is fitted with advanced pollution detection systems, specialised pollution response boats, and modern firefighting equipment, according to an official statement. It also includes a helicopter hangar and aviation support facilities, significantly expanding its operational reach. Singh expressed confidence that these features would enable the ship to maintain stability even in challenging sea conditions, providing a major operational advantage during real-world missions.
Calling marine environmental protection both a strategic imperative and a moral duty in the context of climate change and global warming, the Raksha Mantri praised the Coast Guard’s role in oil spill response, fire-fighting, and salvage operations. He said these capabilities place India among a select group of nations equipped with advanced environmental response systems.
Named Samudra Pratap, meaning Majesty of the Seas, the ship reflects the Indian Coast Guard’s determination to ensure clean, secure, and safe maritime spaces while protecting national interests. The vessel has a displacement of 4,170 tonnes, measures 114.5 metres in length, and can achieve speeds exceeding 22 knots. It is powered by two 7,500 kW diesel engines coupled with indigenously developed controllable pitch propellers and gearboxes, providing enhanced manoeuvrability and an operational endurance of approximately 6,000 nautical miles.
