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The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has added another indigenously built Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) to its fleet, with the launch of ‘Atal’ at Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) today. It is the sixth FPV in a series of eight being constructed under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, reinforcing India’s push for self-reliance in defence shipbuilding.
‘Atal’ is designed to strengthen the ICG’s capabilities in coastal security, anti-smuggling operations, and maritime rescue missions, bolstering its ability to safeguard India’s 11,098.81 km coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Key Features of ‘Atal’
The ‘Atal’ vessel, built with over 60% indigenous content, showcases GSL’s exceptional in-house design expertise and advanced shipbuilding capabilities. Measuring 52 meters in length and displacing 320 tonnes, it is ideally suited for a variety of roles, including fisheries protection, anti-piracy patrols, island territory surveillance, and search-and-rescue operations. Notably, it is the first Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) in India to feature a controllable pitch propeller (CPP), which significantly enhances propulsion efficiency and manoeuvrability. Additionally, this project bolsters regional economic growth by supporting MSMEs and local industries, fostering employment opportunities in the community.
Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman and Managing Director of GSL, remarked:
“ICGS Atal marks another proud milestone for Team GSL. Despite global challenges, our focus on indigenous innovation remains steadfast. This vessel reflects India’s growing self-reliance in maritime defence.”
Indian Coast Guard: Expanding Maritime Vigilance
From its inception in 1977 with just seven platforms, the ICG has evolved into a formidable maritime force with 151 ships and 76 aircraft. By 2030, it aims to scale up to 200 ships and 100 aircraft, positioning itself among the leading coast guard services globally.
Operating under its motto ‘Vayam Rakshamah’ (We Protect), the ICG has saved 11,730 lives since inception, including 169 in the past year. Its constant vigil involves 55–60 surface platforms and 10–12 aircraft deployed daily across the Indian Search and Rescue Region.
Operational Footprint
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) excels not only in routine patrolling but also has a distinguished history of law enforcement and humanitarian efforts. Notably, the ICG has intercepted contraband valued at Rs 52,560 crore, including a record seizure of 6,016 kg of narcotics in the Andaman Sea. In terms of disaster response, the ICG played a vital role during Cyclone ASNA in Gujarat and in providing flood relief in Wayanad, executing complex nighttime medical evacuations with precision. As the designated authority for oil spill response in India, the ICG conducts regular pollution response drills, enhancing the nation’s preparedness for environmental challenges.
Team BharatShakti
