Visakhapatnam: The second Arihant-Class ballistic missile submarine INS Arighaat was commissioned into the Indian Navy today and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said it will further strengthen India’s nuclear triad. He said it would enhance nuclear deterrence, help in establishing strategic balance and peace in the region, and play a decisive role in the security of the country.
Singh described it as an achievement for the nation and a testament to the government’s “unwavering resolve” to achieve self-reliance in defence.
While commending the Indian Navy, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Industry for their synergy in achieving this capability, he appreciated that the country’s industrial sector, especially MSMEs, got a “huge boost” through this project, and more employment opportunities were created.
Singh recalled former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s political will which put India at par with a nuclear weapon state.“It is essential for us to develop rapidly in every field, including defence, especially in today’s geopolitical scenario. Along with economic prosperity, we need a strong military. Our government is working on mission mode to ensure that our soldiers possess top-quality weapons and platforms made on Indian soil”.
The construction of INS Arighaat involved the use of advanced design and manufacturing technology, detailed research and development, utilisation of special materials, complex engineering and highly skilled workmanship. It has the distinction of having the indigenous systems and equipment which were conceptualised, designed, manufactured and integrated by the Indian scientists, industry and Naval personnel.
The technological advancements undertaken indigenously on this submarine make it significantly more advanced than its predecessor Arihant. The presence of both INS Arihant and INS Arighaat will enhance India’s capability to deter potential adversaries and safeguard its national interests.
India’s first indigenously developed Pollution Control Vessel of ICG, ‘Samudra Pratap’ launched in Goa
Meanwhile, India also launched today the country’s first indigenously developed pollution control vessel of the Indian Coast Guard, Samudra Pratap, in Goa today. The ship has been built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The vessel will help to check the oil spillage on the country’s sea coast.
It may be mentioned that GSL, a premier Indian Shipyard, signed a contract for constructing two Pollution Control Vessels for the Indian Coast Guard at a cost of Rs 583 Crores. It is for the first time that these vessels are being designed and constructed indigenously. The ship has been designed and constructed in-house by Goa Shipyard Ltd to meet the specific requirements of ICG. The ship has a length of 114.5 metres, a breadth of 16.5 metres and would displace 4170 tonnes. The Keel laying ceremony of the ship was held on November 21, 2022.
– global bihari bureau
