New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) on the eve of the induction of the Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) ‘Samudra Pratap’ into the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). During the visit, he emphasised that ships built by GSL and other Indian shipyards for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard are floating symbols of India’s sovereignty, representing the nation’s presence, capability, and resolve in the open seas.
The first of the two PCVs constructed by GSL, Samudra Pratap, is scheduled to be commissioned on January 5, 2026, in Goa in the presence of the Defence Minister.
Rajnath Singh described self-reliance in defence as a strategic necessity and praised organisations like GSL for turning this necessity into reality. He stated that GSL is developing capabilities, assimilating technology, and strengthening indigenous design, resulting in timely delivery of equipment to the armed forces and accelerating the nation’s journey towards self-reliance.
Highlighting the critical role of Indian shipyards amid today’s complex security environment, the Defence Minister noted that non-traditional threats in the maritime domain are steadily increasing alongside conventional challenges.
He pointed out various maritime challenges such as drug trafficking, illegal fishing, human trafficking, environmental crimes, and issues related to disputed areas. In this context, the role of shipyards becomes even more significant. Situated at the heart of the nation’s maritime history, naval heritage, and strategic vision, GSL remains a vital pillar of India’s defence framework and maritime security responsibilities.
Rajnath Singh stressed that a ship is not merely a combination of steel, machinery, and technology but a symbol of public trust and the expectations and needs of the armed forces. He acknowledged GSL’s longstanding commitment to fulfilling this trust and these expectations.
He underscored India’s emergence as an active maritime nation and its growing role in ensuring stability, cooperation, and a rules-based order in the Indian Ocean region.
The Defence Minister called upon institutions like GSL to further strengthen India’s credibility on the global stage in the times ahead.
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