The Indian Navy is set to commission its latest vessel, INS Nirdeshak, in a grand ceremony on Wednesday at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, presides over the event, marking a significant milestone for India's naval capabilities.

INS Nirdeshak, the second ship under the Survey Vessel (Large) Project, was built at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. The ship’s construction highlights India’s commitment to self-reliance, as more than 80% of its components were sourced from domestic manufacturers.

The newly commissioned vessel pays tribute to its predecessor, the original INS Nirdeshak, which was a significant asset to the Indian Navy for 32 years. The earlier vessel played a crucial role in various naval operations before being decommissioned in 2014, marking the end of an era in the Navy's history. With advanced capabilities, including an endurance of 25 days at sea and speeds exceeding 18 knots, the new Nirdeshak is designed to carry forward the legacy of its forerunner.

Modernizing India's Hydrographic Fleet

The commissioning of INS Nirdeshak represents a key step in modernizing the Indian Navy's hydrographic fleet. It will play a crucial role in India’s "SAGAR" initiative (Security and Growth for All in the Region), supporting both regional security and scientific exploration. The ship’s primary mission is to map India’s maritime zones, including ports, harbours, and coastal areas, improving navigation safety for both commercial and naval vessels.

INS Nirdeshak is also equipped with cutting-edge hydrographic equipment, satellite-based positioning systems, and terrestrial survey tools. These technologies make it an advanced “cartographer of the seas,” capable of providing valuable data for safe navigation across vast oceanic regions.

A Ship Built with Indian Expertise

INS Nirdeshak’s development began in December 2020, and the ship was launched in May 2022. It has undergone extensive testing to ensure it meets the highest operational standards. This ship, like others in the Survey Vessel (Large) series, is a product of India’s "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" vision, with more than 80% of its components sourced from Indian manufacturers, including large and small private firms and public companies. The vessel’s steel was also made in India.

This project is part of a larger effort, with 63 of the Indian Navy's 64 ships currently under construction in Indian shipyards. These vessels contribute to building a strong and self-reliant maritime force, crafted by Indian hands.

Shipbuilding as a Catalyst for Economic Growth

The construction of warships like INS Nirdeshak supports thousands of skilled jobs each year. At GRSE alone, the shipbuilding process has employed around 1,600 workers annually. Additionally, outsourced work supports nearly 10,000 people each year. These projects drive technological innovation and create a robust industrial ecosystem that not only enhances defence capabilities but also boosts India’s export potential in the shipbuilding industry.

The SVL project is a vital part of India’s push for strategic autonomy and economic transformation. By strengthening the nation's industrial capacity, it helps secure India’s position as a leader in advanced shipbuilding.

Looking Towards 2047

The commissioning of the new INS Nirdeshak is a milestone in the Indian Navy's strategic vision to transform into a "Fully Aatmanirbhar Force" by 2047. This reflects India's commitment to self-reliance, showcasing advancements in indigenous shipbuilding technology, and strengthening national defense capabilities while reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. When it officially joins the fleet in Visakhapatnam, it will stand as a symbol of India's growing self-sufficiency and innovation in defence. The vessel represents not just a leap in maritime capabilities, but also a forward-looking vision where technology, industry, and sovereignty come together to shape India's future.