New Delhi: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval May 29 commissioned the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) Sajag, which has been constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited. Sajag is the third in a series of five offshore patrol vessels indigenously designed in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ vision.
In a tweet, the ICG said that the indigenously-built ship is fitted with advanced technology equipment, weapon and sensors capable to carry a twin engine helicopter and four high speed boats.
In his address, Doval said that the concept of forming ICG came into being post 1971 war, when it was assessed that maritime borders are equally vital as land borders, according to an official statement. He commended the Goa shipyard for indigenously developing ships for the maritime armed forces on time with state-of-the-art machinery and latest technology sensors and equipment that will enable ICG to undertake varied charter of duties within and beyond Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Doval lauded the Coast Guard for the support to coastal populace, as also to undertake diverse roles like rescue operations during cyclones, marine pollution response and anti-narco operations, the statement said.
“He said that the ICG has contributed significantly towards saving precious lives at sea in the recent disaster in Mumbai High,” it added.
In another tweet, the ICG said that Sajag will strengthen its concurrent multiple operations’ capability towards ensuring safe, secure and clean seas as also responding promptly to maritime emergencies in neighbourhood.
Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar, Indian Coast Guard Director General K Natarajan and CMD Goa shipyard Cmde BB Nagpal (Retd) were among those who attended the event.
“ICG ships are being built within the country in various shipyards, including private yard in line with Government of India’s vision of ‘Make in India’. The NSA was impressed to witness the ICG OPV Sajag, which was looking magnificent during the commissioning ceremony,” the statement said.
The ICG, which was created through an Act of Parliament in 1978, has traversed a long journey in the last four decades. It is a multifarious force, undertaking concurrent operations and being the first responder for any developing situation at sea.
