The Indian Navy commissioned its second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), INS Androth, at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. The event marked a significant step in India’s push for indigenous defense capabilities under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command. Senior naval officials, dignitaries, and representatives from Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), the vessel’s builder, were in attendance.
Built in Kolkata by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), INS Androth features over 80% indigenous components. The 77-metre-long craft is designed for anti-submarine operations in coastal and shallow waters. With a displacement of around 1,500 tonnes, it carries advanced sonar systems, torpedo launchers, and rocket systems. Additionally, it uses electronic warfare tools to detect and neutralize underwater threats.
Vice Admiral Pendharkar praised GRSE’s contribution to India’s naval modernisation. He stated that INS Androth reflects the nation’s growing ability to produce sophisticated maritime platforms. Commodore PR Hari (Retd.), Chairperson and Managing Director of GRSE, reaffirmed the shipyard’s commitment to timely delivery of high-performance vessels. He noted that the remaining ASW SWCs are on track.
Named after Androth Island in Lakshadweep, the ship’s crest features a cone snail shell. This symbolizes precision and lethality. Its mascot, the mythical Makar—vehicle of Lord Varuna—represents strength and adaptability. This aligns with the vessel’s role as a modern submarine hunter.
India’s first very large gas carrier ‘Shivalik’ arrives at Vizag Port
In a separate ceremony, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal welcomed ‘Shivalik’, India’s first Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC), at Visakhapatnam Port. The vessel, flagged under India on September 10, 2025, enhances the country’s energy logistics and maritime strength.
The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) operates ‘Shivalik’, which arrived with its first LPG cargo. Union Minister Sonowal commended SCI and the Visakhapatnam Port Authority for their efficient handling of the vessel. He emphasised that the induction supports India’s goals under Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the Maritime India Vision 2030. The aim is to boost domestic ownership and global competitiveness in the shipping sector.
