SAMUDRA PRAHARI

Why in News?

Indian Coast Guard Ship Samudra Prahari on an overseas deployment to ASEAN
countries as part of India’s initiative for Marine Pollution Response in the region.

What is SAMUDRA PRAHARI?

The Indian Coast Guard Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialized Pollution
Control Vessel, is currently on an overseas deployment to ASEAN countries from
11 Sep to 14 Oct 2023. This deployment is part of India’s ASEAN initiatives for
Marine Pollution Response, showcasing the Pollution Response capabilities of the
Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and its commitment to addressing marine pollution
issues and enhancing capacity in the region.

The ship is equipped with a Chetak Helicopter in Pollution Response
configuration, enhancing its capabilities in this area.

During this deployment, the ship is scheduled to make port calls in
Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh, and Jakarta. It will demonstrate the ICG’s pollution
response capabilities and its dedication to collaborative efforts for marine pollution
response.

As part of an overseas exchange program, the ship has embarked 13 NCC
cadets to participate in “Puneet Sagar Abhiyan,” an international outreach
program focused on beach clean-ups and similar activities in coordination
with partner nations.

This visit holds significant importance in strengthening bilateral
relationships with key maritime agencies, including the Thai Maritime
Enforcement Command Centre and BAKAMLA (Indonesia Maritime Security
Agency). These relationships have evolved over the years to ensure the safety,
security, and cleanliness of the seas in the region. Engagements with senior
officials and personnel from these agencies during the visit will further enhance
regional safety and security.

The visit’s agenda includes professional exchanges, cross-deck visits,
planning and tabletop exercises, joint exercises, as well as official and social
engagements including visits to capacity-building facilities.

The visit of ICGS Samudra Prahari to ASEAN countries reinforces India’s
continuous efforts to foster friendly relations through maritime cooperation. This
aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, known as “SAGAR –
Security and Growth for All in the Region,” which seeks to unite the region. It
also echoes the Indian government’s theme during its G20 Presidency: “Vasudhaiva
Kutumbakam” – One Earth, One Family, One Future.