The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has celebrated a significant achievement by introducing its first homegrown Pollution Control Vessel (PCV), Samudra Pratap. This vessel was officially inducted on December 23, 2025, as part of a project assigned to Goa Shipyard Limited.
Samudra Pratap boasts over 60% indigenous content, showcasing India’s advancements in shipbuilding and supporting the government’s initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India. This vessel enhances the ICG’s capability to protect India’s maritime environment.
As the largest ship in the ICG fleet, Samudra Pratap is specifically designed to tackle complex pollution scenarios. Measuring 114.5 meters long and weighing 4,170 tonnes, it is equipped with state-of-the-art pollution response and navigation systems. The vessel features a 30mm naval gun and two 12.7mm remote-controlled guns, ensuring robust operational security.
One standout feature of Samudra Pratap is its Dynamic Positioning (DP-1) capability. This technology allows the vessel to maintain a precise location during critical pollution response missions. Additionally, it can respond to marine disasters with high-capacity firefighting systems.
Equipped with advanced pollution detection tools, such as an oil fingerprinting machine and a fully operational pollution control lab, the vessel serves as a vital asset for monitoring and managing oil spills and contamination.
Designed for operations within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and beyond, Samudra Pratap enhances operational precision in recovering pollutants and supports large-scale environmental protection efforts. The ship’s spacious deck also allows it to conduct helicopter operations for extended maritime surveillance.
The induction ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, underscoring the significance of this ship in India’s maritime development. According to a recent report by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, India is witnessing a rise in maritime environmental threats, making the role of vessels like Samudra Pratap crucial for national preparedness.
As the world grapples with increasing pollution challenges, Samudra Pratap is a symbol of India’s commitment to safeguarding its coasts and offshore resources. This development aligns with a global trend toward enhancing maritime security and environmental protection, signifying a forward-looking approach to modern maritime challenges.
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Indian Coast Guard, Samudra Pratap, Pollution Control Vessel, Goa Shipyard Limited, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, maritime safety, oil spill response, India defence, environmental protection
