The recent commissioning and dedication of Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sarthak to the nation by the Indian Coast Guard in Goa has been making headlines.
Key Points about ICGS Sarthak
ICGS Sarthak is a 105-meter-long offshore patrol vessel which displaces 2,450 tons. The OPV is driven by two diesel engines, each having a capacity of 9,100 kilowatt, which allow the ship to reach a top speed of 26 knots. It stands fourth in a series of five such OPVs. The induction of this vessel will greatly enhance the country’s maritime security and safety.
Offshore Patrol Vessels are long-range surface ships capable of operating in India’s maritime zones, including the island territories, with helicopter operational capabilities. They play various roles including coastal and offshore patrolling, policing maritime zones of India, surveillance, anti-smuggling and anti-piracy operations. They also have limited wartime roles.
The Development of ICGS Sarthak
The ship has been indigenously designed and built by M/s Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), reflecting the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. With about 70% indigenous content, it provides a significant boost to the Indian shipbuilding industry and marks a substantial step toward achieving ‘Atmanirbar Bharat’.
Features of ICGS Sarthak
ICGS Sarthak comes equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and communication equipment, sensors, and machinery. The ship can carry a twin-engine helicopter, four high-speed boats, and one inflatable boat, facilitating swift boarding and search & rescue operations. Additionally, the ship can carry limited pollution response equipment to manage oil spill pollution at sea.
Utility of ICGS Sarthak
The vessel will be extensively deployed for Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance, coastal security, and other duties as mentioned in the Coast Guard charter of duties, to protect the maritime interests of the nation.
Overview of Other OPVs
Apart from ICGS Sarthak, other Offshore Patrol Vessels include Sajag, Vigraha, Yard 45006 VAJRA, and Varaha.
About Indian Coast Guard
The Indian Coast Guard, an armed force, search and rescue, and maritime law enforcement agency, falls under the purview of the Ministry of Defence and is headquartered in New Delhi. Established in August 1978 by the Coast Guard Act, 1978, it operates as an independent Armed force of India. The idea of forming the ICG was conceived post the 1971 war, following the visionary Rustamji Committee’s blueprint for a multidimensional Coast Guard.
The Indian Coast Guard has jurisdiction over India’s territorial waters, including the contiguous zone and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). It is also responsible for protecting the marine environment in India’s maritime zones and coordinates the response to oil spills in Indian waters.
