Marking a major milestone in India’s maritime capability and Aatmanirbharta in defence manufacturing, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh commissioned Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Samudra Pratap, the first indigenously designed Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) of the Indian Coast Guard, in Goa on January 5, 2026. Built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) with over 60% indigenous content, the vessel is the largest ship in the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) fleet to date.
A Leap Forward in Indigenous Shipbuilding
Describing ICGS Samudra Pratap as an embodiment of India’s mature defence industrial ecosystem, the Raksha Mantri noted that the vessel reflects GSL’s modern, integrated approach to addressing contemporary maritime challenges. He reiterated the government’s sustained efforts to raise indigenous content in defence platforms to 90%, reinforcing the vision of Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Multi-Role Capabilities for Maritime Safety and Environmental Protection
While primarily designed for pollution control, ICGS Samudra Pratap integrates multiple operational capabilities into a single platform. The vessel will significantly enhance the Coast Guard’s effectiveness in:
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Marine pollution response and oil spill containment
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Firefighting and salvage operations
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Coastal patrol and maritime safety
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Extended surveillance and rapid response missions
Equipped with advanced pollution detection systems, dedicated response boats, high-end firefighting systems, and aviation facilities including a helicopter hangar, the ship is capable of operating effectively even in rough sea conditions.
Protecting the Marine Environment and Blue Economy
Highlighting marine environmental protection as both a strategic necessity and a moral responsibility, Shri Rajnath Singh said that platforms like Samudra Pratap place India among a select group of nations with advanced environmental response capabilities. He noted that timely containment of pollution incidents helps protect coral reefs, mangroves, fisheries, and marine biodiversity—directly supporting coastal communities and the blue economy.
“Clean seas ensure safe trade, safe lives, and a safe environment,” he said, adding that the vessel strengthens India’s Grand Maritime Vision and commitment to shared global responsibility for ocean heritage.
India as a Responsible Maritime Power
Addressing global maritime uncertainty, the Raksha Mantri stated that India consistently works to secure not only its own maritime interests but also peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific. This approach, he said, reinforces India’s standing as a Responsible Maritime Power, committed to peace, stability, and environmental responsibility.
He further underlined that the Indian Coast Guard must evolve from a platform-centric force to an intelligence-driven and integration-centric organisation, capable of responding proactively to emerging, technology-driven threats.
Women Officers on a Frontline Coast Guard Ship – A Historic First
In a landmark development, ICGS Samudra Pratap will have two women officers appointed to a frontline Coast Guard ship for the first time. Applauding the Coast Guard’s progress towards a gender-neutral and inclusive work environment, Shri Rajnath Singh said women officers are now serving as pilots, observers, air traffic controllers, logistics and law officers, and are actively deployed in frontline operations.
He described the appointment as a matter of pride and said the officers would serve as role models for future generations.
ICG’s Expanding Strategic Role
The Raksha Mantri praised the Indian Coast Guard’s multi-dimensional role—from marine pollution control and coastal cleanliness to search and rescue and maritime law enforcement. He asserted that the ICG’s growing strength sends a clear message to adversaries that any misadventure will be met with a bold and befitting response.
He also called for the development of specialised career streams within the ICG in areas such as maritime law enforcement, environmental protection, and maritime cyber security, while urging the force to move towards global leadership in maritime governance.
About ICGS Samudra Pratap
Samudra Pratap, meaning Majesty of the Seas, symbolises the Indian Coast Guard’s resolve to ensure safe, secure, and clean seas. The vessel has:
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Displacement: 4,170 tonnes
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Length: 114.5 metres
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Speed: Over 22 knots
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Endurance: 6,000 nautical miles
It is powered by indigenously developed propulsion systems and equipped with state-of-the-art pollution response gear, advanced navigation and automation systems, and modern armament for maritime security.
The ship will be based at Kochi, under the operational control of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (West).
Conclusion
The commissioning of ICGS Samudra Pratap marks a defining moment in India’s maritime and environmental security journey. Combining indigenous design, advanced technology, inclusivity, and strategic vision, the vessel strengthens the Indian Coast Guard’s role as a guardian of India’s maritime interests and reinforces India’s commitment to peace, sustainability, and self-reliance on the global stage.
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Source: PIB
