INS Sandhayak: Defence minister Rajnath Singh commissions survey vessel into Indian navy

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh officially commissioned the survey vessel Sandhayak of the Indian Navy in Vizag on Saturday. This new addition is anticipated to enhance the naval force's surveillance capabilities in strategic waterways. (Photo: PTI)

Constructed at GRSE Kolkata, the vessel has over 80% indigenous content. The 110-meter ship, weighing approximately 3800 tons, is propelled by two diesel engines. It has been reconfigured from its previous form which was decommissioned on June 4, 2021. (Photo: Nalam Kanaka)

With an endurance exceeding 25 days and the capability to attain speeds surpassing 18 knots, this vessel emerges as a formidable resource for mapping the waterways. It is set to play a crucial role in India's outreach in the Indian Ocean region through the execution of Foreign Cooperation Surveys. (Photo: Nalam Kanaka)

The induction of Sandhayak into the Navy is the first of four survey vessel (large) ships under construction at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata. (Photo: PTI)

The primary purpose of the ship is to conduct comprehensive coastal and deep-water Hydrographic Surveys for Port and Harbour approaches, as well as determining navigational channels and routes. The operational zone extends up to maritime limits, covering the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and extended continental shelf. (Photo: PTI)

The secondary function of the vessel is conducting search and rescue operations, engaging in oceanic research, and serving as hospital ships for casualties. (Photo: Nalam Kanaka)

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh also warned that individuals engaged in maritime piracy and smuggling will not be tolerated under any circumstance. He described it as a pledge of New India. (Photo: PTI)

The defense minister characterized the commissioning of INS Sandhayak as a historic event, expressing confidence that it will enhance India's standing as a superpower in the Indo-Pacific region and contribute to the Indian Navy's efforts in upholding peace and security. Drawing parallels with human development, he explained the evolution of a nation's security from dependency in its formative stages to eventual independence, akin to a child's progression from reliance on family to spreading knowledge in society. (Photo: Nalam Kanaka)

Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar said that Sandhayak, which literally means 'one who carries out a special search', is indeed a fitting name to the first of the four 'state of the art' Survey Vessel Large class of ships. (Photo: ANI)