Kolkata-based GRSE has launched 'Sagar Manthan', a cutting-edge research vessel for the NCPOR. Costing ₹840 crore, this indigenous ship is set to revolutionize India's deep-sea exploration and scientific research capabilities.

  • Launch of the ₹840-crore indigenous research vessel 'Sagar Manthan'.
  • Expected to be fully operational by early 2028.
  • Designed for the Deep Ocean Mission, covering the Indian and Southern Oceans.
  • Capability to conduct seismic surveys at depths of up to 6 km.

In a significant boost to India's maritime scientific prowess, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) launched the 'Sagar Manthan', an indigenous ocean research vessel (ORV) on Wednesday at the Rishi Bankim Shipyard in Kolkata. The vessel is being constructed for the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR).

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, Jitendra Singh, congratulated GRSE and the Ministry of Earth Sciences on this milestone. Earth Sciences Secretary Srinivasa Kumar Tummala emphasized that the vessel is a cornerstone of the government's Deep Ocean Mission, aimed at enhancing India's ability to conduct high-level research in the Indian Ocean and beyond.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the 'Sagar Manthan' is not just a scientific tool but a strategic asset. By enabling the exploration of polymetallic sulphides and manganese nodules, India is positioning itself to secure critical minerals essential for future technologies, thereby reducing dependence on imports and strengthening its 'Blue Economy' vision.

The Sagar Manthan represents a paradigm shift in India's oceanographic capabilities, moving from coastal observation to deep-sea dominance.

The vessel boasts impressive specifications: it is 89.5 metres long, 18.8 metres wide, with a gross tonnage of 5,900 tonnes. Capable of a speed of 14 knots, it is engineered to withstand severe sea states, making it suitable for missions in the equatorial Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal, and the treacherous waters of the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica.

Equipped with state-of-the-art systems, the ship will utilize sub-bottom profilers, seismic equipment, and an advanced Doppler weather radar. Furthermore, it is designed to launch and recover Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) developed by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT).

FeatureSpecification
Total Cost₹840 Crore
Dimensions89.5m (L) x 18.8m (W)
Survey DepthUp to 6 Kilometres
Operational DateEarly 2028

The vessel will function as a floating laboratory, allowing scientists to perform real-time analytical work and data processing onboard. It will also serve as a training hub for technicians and researchers, ensuring the sustainability of India's marine research ecosystem.

Did You Know?: The vessel was launched just five months after its keel was laid, demonstrating an extraordinary acceleration in indigenous shipbuilding timelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the primary goal of the Sagar Manthan vessel?
The primary goal is to enhance India's capabilities in deep-sea exploration, geophysical research, and the discovery of marine mineral resources.

2. Which regions will the vessel explore?
It is designed to operate in the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal, and the Southern Ocean, including waters around Antarctica.