India Inducts Largest Indigenous Pollution Control Vessel ‘Samudra Pratap’ into Coast Guard Fleet

India has taken a significant step towards self-reliance with the induction of the pollution control vessel Samudra Pratap into the Indian Coast Guard fleet. The ship, built with over 60% indigenous materials, was commissioned by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday.

Multi-Role Capabilities for Modern Maritime Challenges

Although primarily designed for pollution control, Samudra Pratap is equally capable of search and rescue operations, coastal patrol, and enhancing maritime security. The vessel integrates multiple capabilities on a single platform—a modern approach deemed essential for today’s maritime challenges, where both flexibility and preparedness are critical.

Constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited, the vessel is 114.5 meters long and weighs approximately 4,200 tons. It is powered to achieve speeds exceeding 22 knots, making it highly effective for long-range operations. Over 60% of its technology and materials are indigenous, underscoring India’s growing defence self-reliance.

A Milestone for ‘Make in India’ and Defence Manufacturing

Rajnath Singh highlighted that the Samudra Pratap exemplifies the true spirit of the ‘Make in India’ initiative. “The use of such a high level of indigenous material in a complex platform demonstrates that our defence industrial ecosystem has matured. We now possess the capability to handle even the most complex defence manufacturing challenges,” he said.

India’s Largest Coast Guard Vessel to Date

The Defence Minister also noted that Samudra Pratap is the largest vessel in the Indian Coast Guard fleet and India’s first fully indigenously designed pollution control ship. Its size—115 meters in length and 4,170 tons in displacement—along with its speed of 22 knots, highlights both its operational capacity and strategic significance.

Addressing Maritime Pollution and Protecting Communities

Maritime pollution has emerged as a serious global challenge, affecting fishermen’s livelihoods, coastal communities, and future generations. Minister Singh emphasized that the Coast Guard’s coastal clean-up campaigns, pollution response initiatives, and multi-agency coordination serve as a model for tackling large-scale crises effectively.

Building Confidence Among Citizens and Deterring Adversaries

The Minister praised the Coast Guard for instilling confidence among citizens, fishermen, and farmers, reassuring them of robust maritime safety. The presence of vessels like Samudra Pratap also acts as a deterrent for potential adversaries, signaling that India’s maritime boundaries are vigilantly protected.

Ensuring a Secure and Clean Maritime Future

“The sea forms the foundation of our culture, economy, and future. A safe and clean maritime environment guarantees secure trade, livelihoods, and ecological balance. Platforms like Samudra Pratap reaffirm India’s commitment to safeguarding its waters and fulfilling its maritime responsibilities,” Singh concluded.