India took another decisive step towards maritime self-reliance and environmental security with the commissioning of the Indian Coast Guard’s first indigenously designed and built pollution control vessel, ‘Samudra Pratap’, in Goa on Monday.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, while commissioning the vessel, said the induction of Samudra Pratap would not only strengthen the Coast Guard’s operational capability but also boost India’s self-confidence as a maritime nation.

“Commissioning of this ship will increase our strength. This ship is the symbol of our collective resolve. When this ship advances against the waves, then our Coast Guard and India’s self-confidence will also be bolstered,” Singh said.

🇮🇳 A Proud Symbol of Indigenous Defence Capability

Built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), the 114.5-metre-long vessel boasts over 60% indigenous content, marking a major milestone in India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision for defence manufacturing. It is also the largest ship in the Indian Coast Guard fleet, significantly expanding the force’s operational reach.

Although primarily designed for pollution control, the defence minister highlighted that Samudra Pratap is a versatile platform capable of undertaking search and rescue operations, coastal patrol, and maritime safety missions.

🛠️ Key Features and Capabilities

Samudra Pratap brings together advanced technology, endurance, and firepower, making it a critical asset for India’s maritime security and environmental protection efforts.

  • ⚖️ Displacement: 4,200 tonnes

  • 🚀 Speed: Over 22 knots

  • 🌊 Endurance: 6,000 nautical miles

  • 🔫 Armament:

    • One 30mm CRN-91 gun

    • Two 12.7mm stabilised remote-controlled guns with integrated fire control systems

  • 🧠 Technology:

    • Indigenous integrated bridge system

    • Platform management system

    • High-capacity external firefighting system

The vessel is specially equipped to address oil spills, maritime emergencies, and security challenges within India’s exclusive economic zone and beyond.

🌏 Strategic Importance for India’s Maritime Future

The ship will be based at the Indian Coast Guard’s Kochi base, reinforcing India’s preparedness along vital sea lanes. Emphasising India’s role as a responsible maritime power, Rajnath Singh said that amid growing global maritime uncertainty, India continues to ensure peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific region.

“We must shape norms in the field of maritime governance, strengthen capacity-building initiatives and advance cooperative frameworks. The Indian Coast Guard must elevate its operational doctrines, institutional practices, and technological innovations,” he added.

✅ Conclusion: A Stronger, Safer Maritime India

The commissioning of ‘Samudra Pratap’ marks a significant leap forward in India’s maritime and environmental security architecture. Beyond its technical capabilities, the vessel represents India’s growing confidence in indigenous defence manufacturing, its commitment to safeguarding marine ecosystems, and its readiness to shoulder greater responsibility in regional and global maritime governance.

As Samudra Pratap sets sail, it carries with it not just advanced technology, but also the resolve, self-reliance, and rising self-confidence of a nation ready to lead on the high seas.