Atmanirbhar Bharat: Defence ministry approves massive deal to procure patrol vessels for Indian Coast Guard

A contract for Rs 1,614 crore was inked by the defence ministry and Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd on Wednesday to purchase six next-generation offshore patrol boats for the Indian Coast Guard.According to the ministry of defence, the goal of the procurement of the platforms is to increase the Coast Guard's ability to maintain maritime security.“The Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd on December 20 for the procurement of six next generation offshore patrol vessels for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG),” the ministry said in a statement.According to the statement, the deal was done for a total cost of Rs 1614.89 crore under the buy (Indian-IDDM) category.Four of the six vessels being purchased will replace the Coast Guard's ageing fleet of offshore patrol boats, while the remaining two will be added to it.“The acquisition of these major ICG platforms is aimed to boost the ICG’s capability and reinforces the increased focus of the Government towards maritime security,” the ministry's statement added.“These modern and high-tech ships will play a critical role in enhancing surveillance, law enforcement, search and rescue, maritime pollution response, and other important capabilities including humanitarian assistance.” It stated that in addition to a number of cutting-edge features and apparatus, these offshore patrol boats will also be outfitted with multifunctional drones, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and wirelessly controlled remote sea rescue craft lifebuoys, providing them with increased adaptability and a competitive advantage. (With agency inputs)