Indian Coast Guard Ship ICGS Sankalp, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, arrived at Port Louis, Mauritius, on 17 January 2026 during its overseas deployment in the Indian Ocean Region. The visit underlines India’s maritime cooperation with Mauritius and supports the broader vision of SAGAR, or Security and Growth for All in the Region. It also reflects India’s focus on capacity building, interoperability, and maritime security in the region.
Strategic Significance
The port call is part of India’s outreach to friendly foreign countries in the Indian Ocean Region. It aims to strengthen bilateral maritime ties with Mauritius and reinforce India’s role as a dependable maritime partner. The deployment supports regional maritime safety, security, and environmental protection.
Operational Engagements
During the stay at Port Louis, ICGS Sankalp will conduct professional interactions with the National Coast Guard of Mauritius and other maritime agencies. The planned activities include:
- Sea and harbour drills.
- Oil pollution response exercises.
- Damage control and NBCD drills.
- Firefighting exercises.
- Visit, Board, Search and Seizure joint training.
- Navigation bridge and Machinery Control Room integration drills.
These exercises are designed to improve coordination, readiness, and operational interoperability.
Gender Inclusivity and Outreach
Two women officers are embarked onboard the ship, reflecting the Indian Coast Guard’s emphasis on gender inclusivity in maritime operations. The deployment marks the growing role of women in the maritime domain and India’s commitment to women empowerment. The visit will also include friendly sports events, cultural exchanges, and community service activities to build goodwill and people-to-people connections.
India’s Maritime Outreach
The port visit also showcases India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and supports the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. After Mauritius, ICGS Sankalp will proceed to Seychelles as part of its continuing overseas deployment, extending India’s maritime engagement with island nations in the Indian Ocean Region.
Last Modified: April 27, 2026