Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissioned the Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) ‘Samudra Pratap’, the first of two Pollution Control Vessels. Singh praised India’s mature defence industrial ecosystem for its effectiveness in handling complex manufacturing challenges. The ICGS Samudra Pratap, with over 60% indigenous content, is India’s first indigenously designed pollution control vessel and the largest in the ICG fleet.
The addition of ICGS Samudra Pratap will enhance the ICG’s operational capability in pollution control, firefighting, maritime safety, and environmental protection. It will also strengthen the ability to conduct extended surveillance and response missions across India’s vast maritime zones. Singh highlighted the ship’s multiple capabilities, including pollution control, coastal patrol, and maritime safety, integrated into a single platform.
Singh commended the ICG for its multidimensional role, from marine pollution to coastal cleanliness, search and rescue, and maritime law enforcement. The ship is equipped with advanced pollution detection systems, pollution response boats, modern firefighting capabilities, a helicopter hangar, and aviation support facilities. Singh expressed confidence in the vessel’s stability in rough sea conditions, emphasizing the importance of marine environment protection in the face of climate change and global warming.
Singh appreciated the ICG for its oil spill response, firefighting, and salvage operations, positioning India among countries with advanced environmental response capabilities. The ICGS Samudra Pratap’s capabilities in quick detection, precise station-keeping, and efficient recovery systems will strengthen pollution incident control, safeguarding coral reefs, mangroves, fisheries, and marine biodiversity. Singh emphasized the direct link between these efforts and the sustainability of coastal communities and the blue economy.
