PM Modi : claims that ICGS Samudra Pratap enhances the security apparatus and fortifies the idea of self-reliance
PM Modi: The commissioning of the Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Samudra Pratap, the first of two Pollution Control Vessels, was praised on Wednesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who said it would further enhance India’s security system and its objective of self-reliance.
On Monday, January 5, Rajnath Singh, the minister of defense, put the ship into service.
In a post to X, PM Modi said, “The commissioning of Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Samudra Pratap is noteworthy for numerous reasons, including the fact that it adds strength to our vision of self-reliance, boosts our security apparatus and reflects a commitment to sustainability, among others.”
ICGS Samudra Pratap is the biggest ship in the ICG fleet to date and the first indigenously built pollution control vessel in India, with more than 60% indigenous material.
The ICG’s operating capacity in pollution control, firefighting, marine safety, and environmental protection would be greatly improved with the inclusion of ICGS Samudra Pratap. Its capacity to carry out prolonged observation and reaction operations across India’s extensive maritime zones will also be strengthened.
Rajnath Singh characterized ICGS Samudra Pratap as a representation of India’s developed defense industry ecosystem at the time of its commissioning.
“The addition of ICGS Samudra Pratap will greatly enhance the ICG’s operational capability in pollution control, fire-fighting, maritime safety, and environmental protection,” Rajnath Singh said, praising the ecosystem for its ability to handle complex manufacturing challenges effectively.Although ICGS Samudra Pratap was specifically created to reduce pollution, this is not its only function. The ship will demonstrate effectiveness in coastal patrol and enhance marine safety due to the integration of different capabilities into a single platform. It is the result of the Goa Shipyard Limited’s (GSL) contemporary strategy to improve adaptability and preparedness to handle today’s marine issues,” Rajnath Singh said.
From search and rescue to maritime law enforcement, from marine pollution to coastal cleanliness, the Defense Minister praised the ICG for its multifaceted role.
He continued by saying that the Coast Guard’s performance of its responsibilities has given a strong message to the nation’s enemies that they would face a brave and appropriate reaction if they dare to attempt any misadventure or cast an evil eye on India’s maritime frontiers.
The ship has state-of-the-art firefighting equipment, specialized pollution response boats, and sophisticated pollution detecting systems.
Additionally, it has aircraft support facilities and a helicopter hangar, which may greatly expand its reach and efficacy.
According to Rajnath Singh, these characteristics will provide the ship a significant edge in real-world operations by enabling it to function steadily even in choppy sea conditions.
In light of the problems caused by climate change and global warming, he described protecting the marine environment as both a strategic need and a moral obligation.
The Defense Minister praised ICG for responding to oil spills, fighting fires, and conducting salvage operations, putting India among the few nations with highly developed environmental response capabilities.ICGS Samudra Pratap will enhance capabilities with its rapid detection, accurate station-keeping, and effective recovery systems. It will guarantee prompt management of pollution situations, avoiding harm to fisheries, coral reefs, mangroves, and marine biodiversity. This is closely related to the blue economy and the viability of coastal towns,” he said.