The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has recently enhanced its maritime environmental response capabilities with the launch of the second Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) named ‘Samudra Prachet’. Built by Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) and launched on 23 July 2025 in Goa, this vessel marks step towards self-reliance in defence production. With 72% indigenous content, the project has boosted national capability, employment, and skills development, especially through local industries and MSMEs.
Design and Specifications
‘Samudra Prachet’ measures 114.5 metres in length and 16.5 metres in breadth. It displaces 4,170 tonnes and is crewed by 14 officers and 115 sailors. The vessel is equipped with modern technology including two side-sweeping arms for oil spill collection while underway. Its radar system can detect oil slicks at sea, enabling timely response to pollution incidents.
Pollution Control Capabilities
The PCV can recover oil across all viscosity levels. It pumps contaminated water onboard, analyses pollutants, separates them, and stores recovered oil in dedicated tanks. This comprehensive system enhances the ICG’s ability to manage marine pollution within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Indigenous Content and Strategic Importance
With over 70% indigenous content, the vessel exemplifies India’s push for Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence manufacturing. The involvement of local MSMEs and industries has generated employment and upgraded technical skills. This aligns with national goals to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthen maritime security infrastructure.
Operational Role and Future Prospects
The PCVs will play important role in environmental protection and maritime domain awareness. They enable quick and effective response to oil spills, safeguarding marine ecosystems and coastal economies. The first PCV was launched in August 2024 and is nearing delivery, signalling a new era in India’s maritime environmental preparedness.
Leadership and Industry Collaboration
The launch ceremony was graced by senior officials including the Director General of ICG, Paramesh Sivamani, and GSL Chairman & Managing Director, Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay. Both brought into light the critical role of these vessels in maritime safety and praised the collaborative efforts of GSL and the defence industry in achieving high indigenous content.
Questions for UPSC:
- Taking example of the indigenous Pollution Control Vessel ‘Samudra Prachet’, discuss the importance of self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) in India’s defence production and its impact on national security.
- Examine the role of the Indian Coast Guard in maritime environmental protection and analyse how technology aids in effective pollution control.
- With suitable examples, discuss the challenges and strategies in managing marine pollution in the Exclusive Economic Zone of India.
- Critically discuss the significance of public-private partnerships and MSMEs in strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem and employment generation.
