New Delhi, May 9 (NVI): The Indian Coast Guard on Saturday commissioned ICGS ‘Achal’, a new-generation fast patrol vessel built by Goa Shipyard Limited, marking a major boost to India’s coastal surveillance and maritime security capabilities.
The vessel, commissioned at Goa Shipyard Limited in Goa, is part of the advanced Adamya-class Fast Patrol Vessel series and is designed to undertake a range of operations including coastal and offshore surveillance, anti-smuggling missions, search and rescue operations, and marine pollution response.
Named ‘Achal’, meaning “firm”, the ship symbolises the Coast Guard’s commitment towards safeguarding India’s maritime interests and securing its maritime frontiers.
The vessel was formally inducted into service by A. Anbarasu in the presence of senior Coast Guard officials and representatives of the Central and state governments.
Officials said the ship has been indigenously designed and constructed with more than 50 per cent indigenous components, reflecting India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Centre’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and “Make in India” initiatives.
The commissioning of ICGS Achal is part of the Indian Coast Guard’s ongoing fleet expansion programme aimed at strengthening operational readiness and enhancing coastal security amid evolving maritime challenges.
Senior Coast Guard officials said the induction of the vessel would significantly improve rapid response capability and surveillance operations in India’s coastal and offshore areas.(NVI)
