India strengthens marine defence
Samudra Prachet boosts India’s green maritime shield : India has launched Samudra Prachet, its second and final Pollution Control Vessel (PCV), on July 23, 2025, at Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL). The vessel was developed indigenously to improve India’s ability to handle marine pollution and oil spills.
Samudra Prachet reflects the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat by enhancing self-reliance in critical maritime infrastructure. It will operate within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), improving environmental response during emergencies.
Response to rising marine risks
India’s growing maritime traffic in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) has heightened the risk of pollution and oil spills. Recognising this, the Ministry of Defence commissioned two PCVs to ensure environmental safety along Indian coasts.
The first PCV was launched in August 2024. With the addition of Samudra Prachet, India completes this vital initiative.
Static GK fact: The Indian Coast Guard was formally established on 1st February 1977 under the Coast Guard Act, 1978.
What Samudra Prachet brings
The vessel is designed to tackle complex pollution incidents. It carries advanced pollution control equipment and is structured for rapid deployment during oil spill emergencies.
It also plays a critical role in fulfilling obligations under international frameworks like MARPOL (Marine Pollution), making India a responsible maritime nation.
Objectives of pollution control vessels
The main goals of deploying vessels like Samudra Prachet are:
- Strengthening oil spill response across maritime zones
- Protecting coastal and marine ecosystems
- Enhancing coordination during marine emergencies
- Advancing indigenous capabilities in shipbuilding
Static GK fact: India’s Maritime Zones of India Act, 1981 empowers national agencies to safeguard marine resources and prevent pollution.
Key technical features
Samudra Prachet is a high-capacity vessel with the following specifications:
- Length: 114.5 metres
- Width: 16.5 metres
- Displacement: 4,170 tonnes
- Builder: Goa Shipyard Ltd
- Operational Zone: Entire EEZ of India
- Equipment: Advanced pollution control systems
It was launched in the presence of ICG Director General Paramesh Sivamani and senior Defence Ministry officials.
Static GK Tip: Goa Shipyard Ltd is a leading Defence Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Defence, known for building military and commercial vessels.
A new maritime milestone
The launch of Samudra Prachet marks a significant step in India’s green maritime strategy. As threats to marine ecosystems increase, vessels like these ensure preparedness, protection, and international credibility.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Samudra Prachet boosts India’s green maritime shield :
| Topic | Detail |
| Vessel Name | Samudra Prachet |
| Type | Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) |
| Launch Date | 23 July 2025 |
| Launch Site | Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) |
| Built By | Goa Shipyard Ltd |
| Vessel Length | 114.5 metres |
| Vessel Displacement | 4,170 tonnes |
| International Convention | MARPOL |
| Relevant Law | Maritime Zones of India Act, 1981 |
| Key Official Present | DG Paramesh Sivamani |
