ICGS Sankalp reaches Mauritius to strengthen maritime cooperation
Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sankalp, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, arrived at Port Louis in Mauritius on Saturday as part of its ongoing overseas deployment to friendly foreign countries in the Indian Ocean Region, underscoring India’s commitment to maritime cooperation and regional security.
According to the Defence Ministry, the port call is aligned with India’s maritime vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), which focuses on promoting maritime safety, security and environmental protection across the Indian Ocean. The visit also reflects the Indian Coast Guard’s emphasis on inclusivity, with two women officers embarked onboard Sankalp, highlighting the expanding role of women in maritime operations.
During its stay in Mauritius, ICGS Sankalp will engage in a series of professional interactions with the National Coast Guard of Mauritius and other maritime agencies. These engagements are aimed at sharing best practices, enhancing interoperability and strengthening cooperation in key operational areas.
A comprehensive training programme has been planned, including sea and harbour drills, oil pollution response exercises, damage control and firefighting drills. Joint activities such as Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) training, navigation bridge coordination and Machinery Control Room (MCR) integration drills will also be conducted to enhance operational readiness and coordination between the two sides.
Beyond operational engagements, the port call will include friendly sports fixtures, cultural exchanges and community service activities to foster camaraderie and people-to-people ties. The visit will also serve as an opportunity to showcase India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities, supporting the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
The Ministry said that the visit of ICGS Sankalp reinforces India’s role as a reliable maritime partner in the Indian Ocean Region and highlights the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to maritime safety, security, capacity building and environmental protection, while further deepening bilateral relations with Mauritius.
Following the completion of its Mauritius visit, ICGS Sankalp will proceed to Seychelles as part of its continued overseas deployment, expanding India’s maritime outreach and cooperation with key island nations in the region.
