‘Sanghmitra’
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- Context: Indian Navy achieved another milestone in indigenous shipbuilding with the launch of Sanghmitra, a Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV).
- The vessel is named after Sanghamitra, symbolising India’s historical and cultural heritage.
- The vessel was launched at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata.
- Sanghmitra is among 11 Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels.
Purpose of the Vessel
- The indigenously designed and built ships are intended to enhance the Navy’s operational strength in multiple maritime roles.
Key Operational Functions
- The NGOPVs will be used for: maritime surveillance, coastal and offshore defence, search and rescue operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), anti-piracy missions, and protection of offshore assets.
Support to Aatmanirbhar Bharat
- According to the Ministry of Defence, the launch strengthens India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
- It also supports the government’s: Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, and the Make in India programme aimed at promoting indigenous defence production.
