In a major step toward strengthening India’s maritime capability and self-reliance, the Indian Navy commissioned INS Ikshak, the third Survey Vessel (Large) class ship, into active service at a ceremony held at the Naval Base in Kochi on Thursday.
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi presided over the commissioning ceremony and described the vessel as a powerful symbol of collaboration between the Navy, domestic shipbuilders, and small and medium enterprises under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
INS Ikshak boasts of advanced features
Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) and commissioned by the Indian Navy, INS Ikshak is designed to conduct hydrographic surveys, gather oceanographic data, and support coastal defence and humanitarian operations.
The ship features state-of-the-art technology and a flight deck for helicopter operations. It supports disaster relief and medical assistance missions, making it a vital asset for strengthening India’s maritime preparedness and safety.
Admiral Tripathi noted that the induction of INS Ikshak will “significantly enhance India’s hydrographic survey capacity and contribute to national security along key sea lanes.”
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Indian Navy focuses on inclusivity and indigenous design
Notably, INS Ikshak is the first vessel in its class to feature dedicated accommodation for women officers and crew, marking another milestone in the Indian Navy’s commitment to gender inclusivity.
GRSE officials highlighted India’s growing capability in defence shipbuilding and advanced survey vessel design by building the vessel using indigenous components and technology.
A step forward for Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative
Following the commissioning ceremony, Admiral Tripathi toured the vessel, interacted with the ship’s crew and GRSE engineers, and commended their contribution in bringing the ship to service readiness.
He emphasised that INS Ikshak’s commissioning reflects India’s vision of building a self-reliant Navy, capable of handling complex missions—from maritime mapping and ocean research to humanitarian assistance in the Indian Ocean region.
