Rajnath Singh Commissions ICG's 'Samudra Pratap', Boosts Maritime Self-Reliance

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissioned ICG's first indigenously built pollution control vessel 'Samudra Pratap' in Goa.
• The 114.5-metre vessel, built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) with over 60% indigenous content, is India's largest and most advanced pollution control ship.
• 'Samudra Pratap' will enforce marine pollution control, maritime law, conduct search & rescue, and safeguard India’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
• The commissioning marks a significant step towards 'atmanirbharta' in shipbuilding and highlights India's mature defence industrial ecosystem.
• The vessel, based in Kochi, includes two maiden women officers, reflecting the government's focus on women's empowerment in frontline roles.

Why It Matters: 'Samudra Pratap' boosts India's maritime self-reliance, pollution control, and women's empowerment.