INS Shachi: Navy Launches First NGOPV at Goa Shipyard
Why in the news
The Indian Navy launched Shachi, the first of eleven planned Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs). The ship was built at Goa Shipyard Limited and is cited as an example of self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Key facts
- Shachi (Yard 1280) is the first vessel of the NGOPV project.
- Builder: Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL); the 11 ships are being built together by GSL (Goa) and GRSE (Kolkata).
- The name comes from Indian mythology and means one who renders assistance.
- Crest: Ursa Major constellation with a red and white lighthouse, standing for guidance and maritime vigilance.
- Design and construction are fully indigenous, under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Roles of the ship
| Mission | What it involves |
|---|---|
| Maritime surveillance | Watching India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) |
| Asset protection | Safeguarding oil rigs and undersea pipelines |
| Anti-piracy | Securing Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) |
| HADR and SAR | Disaster relief and search-and-rescue at sea |
Background
- Offshore Patrol Vessel: long-endurance, versatile ship for coastal (“brown water”) and regional (“green water”) tasks, sitting between small fast-attack craft and large frigates or destroyers.
- Yard number: a unique identity code assigned by the shipyard during construction, before commissioning.
- The class features stealth characteristics, specialised sensors and high-speed endurance.
Exam angle
- Lead ship: Shachi, Yard 1280; builder GSL; total ships in project: 11.
- Related terms: EEZ, SLOC, HADR, SAR, OPV.
- Relevant for UPSC internal security, NDA/CDS and SSC/Railways general awareness.