On August 29, 2024, Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) achieved a significant milestone by launching the first of two indigenous Pollution Control Vessels (PCVs) for the Indian Coast Guard. The vessel, named ‘Samudra Pratap,’ exemplifies India’s progress in defense manufacturing and environmental protection. The event was attended by notable figures, including Sanjay Seth, Minister of State for Defence, and senior officials from the Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy.
Indigenous Engineering Excellence
‘Samudra Pratap’ represents a major advancement in Indian maritime engineering as it is the first vessel of its kind to be entirely designed and constructed indigenously. This accomplishment aligns with the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) and highlights GSL’s growing expertise in shipbuilding and technology. Key details include:
- Indigenous Content: 72%
- Length: 114.5 meters
- Breadth: 16.5 meters
- Displacement: 4,170 tons
- Crew: 14 officers and 115 sailors
Advanced Technology and Features
The ‘Samudra Pratap’ is equipped with cutting-edge technology to manage pollution. Notable features include:
- Side-Sweeping Arms: Designed to contain oil spills while the vessel is in motion.
- Advanced Radar System: For detecting oil spills.
- Oil Recovery and Storage Facilities: To handle various types of oil.
Significance and Impact
Minister Sanjay Seth highlighted the vessel’s importance not only for GSL but for the entire nation. ‘Samudra Pratap’ will enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s capability to respond to oil spills within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and beyond. Seth praised the collaboration between GSL and the Indian Coast Guard, which has resulted in the construction of 18 out of the 25 Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) currently in operation.
GSL’s CMD, Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, emphasized the vessel’s role in advancing India’s marine environmental protection efforts. He expressed confidence that this partnership will continue to strengthen the Indian Coast Guard’s fleet and support India’s goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Economic and Industrial Contributions
The launch of ‘Samudra Pratap’ signifies not only a technological triumph but also contributes to local industry and MSME growth. The project has been pivotal in skill development and job creation, supporting the nation’s economic progress.
Future Outlook
As GSL advances its capabilities, the launch of ‘Samudra Pratap’ establishes the shipyard as a leading facility in India for producing sophisticated Pollution Control Vessels. This achievement underscores India’s growing expertise in indigenous shipbuilding and maritime environmental protection.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- When was the Pollution Control Vessel ‘Samudra Pratap’ launched?
- A) August 28, 2024
- B) August 29, 2024
- C) September 1, 2024
- D) September 2, 2024
- What is the indigenous content percentage of the vessel ‘Samudra Pratap’?
- A) 60%
- B) 72%
- C) 85%
- D) 90%
- What is the length of the vessel ‘Samudra Pratap’?
- A) 100 meters
- B) 114.5 meters
- C) 120 meters
- D) 130 meters
- What advanced feature does ‘Samudra Pratap’ include for oil spill management?
- A) High-pressure water jets
- B) Side-sweeping arms
- C) Chemical dispersants
- D) Floating barriers
- Who is the CMD of Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL)?
- A) Sanjay Seth
- B) Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay
- C) CS Setty
- D) Manoj Jayaswal