VISAKHAPATNAM: Inshore Patrol Vessel (IPV) ‘Rani Rashmoni’ was launched at Hindustan Shipyard on Friday, by Ila Sharma, wife of inspector-general of commander of Coast Guard Region (East) SP Sharma, in the presence of union minister of state for Defence MM Pallam Raju.
‘Rani Rashmoni’ is the last of the five such vessels built by the Hindustan Shipyard for the Coast Guard, said Pallam Raju. Chairman and managing director of HSL, KC Sekhar said the vessel developed in coordination with the Coast Guard, would add to the country’s coastal surveillance capability.
Sekhar said this is the 118th vessel launched at HSL. It has constructed 164 vessels of various types including 11 wellhead platforms. HSL launched 5 vessels besides achieving a record turnover of `662 crore in 2009-10.
Sekhar said HSL’s ship repair division has done a remarkable job on repair of Oil rig, JUR Sagar Ratna and other vessels. He applauded the hardwork and dedication of HSL’s work force and stated that the yard will regain its glory and become a leading Defence Yard.
The Indian Coast Guard had placed order for 8 IPVs by HSL in March 2011. The ship yard got around `800 crore orders from Defence and Commercial for the last six months, said Sekhar.
Inspector-general SP Sharma said security scenario post 26/11 had warranted extensive patrolling and enhanced surveillance along the coast. The threats were real and the response to such situations should be fast and effective, he opined. IPV ships with the required length and speed, were essential for deterrence. The real challenge of coastal security is to prevent access entry of terrorists to India’s hinterland from sea through fishing vessels, he said.
Speaking on the occasion, MM Pallam Raju said with the Ministry of Defence investing in new technology and training to fill the gap, Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) has a bright future. Modernisation of HSL is on the cards with the Ministry of Defence taking over the shipyard from the Ministry of Shipping in February 2010, considering infusing funds to enable it to build warships and submarines for the Indian Navy.
