INS Sandhayak (Yard 3025), the first Survey Vessel Large (SVL) ship, was commissioned into the Indian Navy on February 3, 2024, at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh.
Ship’s Roles
The primary role of INS Sandhayak is to conduct comprehensive hydrographic surveys of ports, harbours, navigational channels/routes, coastal areas, and deep seas, ensuring safe marine navigation. In its secondary role, the ship is capable of undertaking various naval operations.
Raksha Mantri’s Address
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, in his address, emphasized the historic significance of the commissioning, expressing confidence that INS Sandhayak will strengthen India’s position in the Indo-Pacific region. He highlighted the evolving security capabilities of a nation, drawing parallels with human development stages.
Importance of Oceans
The Raksha Mantri emphasized the importance of ocean exploration for expanding knowledge and strengthening strategic interests. He highlighted the Indian Ocean as a global trade hotspot and acknowledged the Indian Navy’s role in securing sea routes and responding to threats.
Combatting Piracy and Smuggling
Shri Rajnath Singh assured zero tolerance for maritime piracy and smuggling, aligning with the commitment of ‘New India.’ He commended the Indian Navy’s prompt responses to threats and attacks, emphasizing the importance of protecting not only Indian ships but also those from friendly countries.
Chief of Naval Staff’s Perspective
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar highlighted the growing importance of ocean surveys for naval operations. He emphasized India’s commitment to building a self-reliant naval force and the ongoing indigenous development of various naval platforms.
Key Features of INS Sandhayak
INS Sandhayak, part of the SVL Project, has a displacement of 3,400 tons, an overall length of 110 meters, and a beam of 16 meters. It is equipped with state-of-the-art hydrographic equipment, propulsion by two Diesel Engines, and a speed capability exceeding 18 knots. The ship’s indigenous content exceeds 80%, showcasing collaborative efforts between the Indian Navy and industry partners.
Naming and Crest
‘Sandhayak’ means the one who carries out a special search. The ship’s crest depicts a mariner’s compass, a divider, and an anchor, symbolizing ocean charting.
Conclusion
The commissioning of INS Sandhayak underscores India’s expertise in warship designing and construction, contributing to the nation’s growing maritime interests and capabilities.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- When was INS Sandhayak commissioned into the Indian Navy?
- A) January 3, 2024
- B) February 3, 2023
- C) February 3, 2024
- D) March 3, 2024
- What is the primary role of INS Sandhayak?
- A) Combatting piracy
- B) Hydrographic surveys
- C) Naval operations
- D) Airlift operations
- Who presided over the commissioning ceremony of INS Sandhayak?
- A) Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- B) Defense Minister Rajnath Singh
- C) Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar
- D) President Ram Nath Kovind
- What does ‘Sandhayak’ mean?
- A) Warrior
- B) Ocean Explorer
- C) Special Search
- D) Protector
- What is the indigenous content of INS Sandhayak by cost?
- A) 50%
- B) 60%
- C) 70%
- D) Over 80%