New Delhi, June 15, 2025 – In a significant step towards maritime self-reliance, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched a new Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) named ‘Achal’ at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) on Saturday. The launch ceremony, held with traditional fervor, marked a major milestone in India’s push for indigenous defence manufacturing under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
The vessel is part of a fleet of eight Fast Patrol Vessels being built by GSL under a contract signed on March 28, 2022, valued at ₹473 crore. Designed and constructed in-house by GSL, the ship boasts over 60% indigenous content, underlining India’s growing capability in domestic shipbuilding and defence production.
The FPV was ceremonially launched and named ‘Achal’ by Smt. Kavita Harbola, wife of Additional Director General Anil Kumar Harbola, PTM, TM, CGC (Western Seaboard), amid Vedic chants. The ceremony witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including Shri Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, CMD of GSL; Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, COMCG (West); IG Sudhir Sahni, DDG (Materials & Maintenance); senior officers from the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, and representatives from classification societies ABS and IRS.
The 52-meter-long and 8-meter-wide vessel has a displacement of 320 tons and can reach speeds of up to 27 knots, powered by a CPP-based propulsion system. Built under dual class certification of the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), the ship meets rigorous operational and safety standards.
‘Achal’ is designed to strengthen India’s coastal defence architecture. Its primary roles include protection of offshore assets and island territories, along with coastal surveillance, monitoring, and control operations. It will significantly enhance the ICG’s capabilities in patrolling and response operations in India’s vast maritime zone.
The project is also a major boost to the local economy and ecosystem, providing employment opportunities to MSMEs, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers across various sectors involved in the shipbuilding process. GSL officials highlighted that the construction has generated substantial economic activity within Goa and beyond.
Speaking at the event, ADG Anil Kumar Harbola praised the dedication of GSL and its workforce, noting that the successful launch of ‘Achal’ underlines India’s ability to meet critical defence needs through indigenous solutions. “This is a proud moment for all stakeholders, a clear example of how focused efforts can transform Atmanirbharta from vision to reality,” he said.
The launch of ‘Achal’ reinforces the strategic partnership between the Indian Coast Guard and Goa Shipyard Limited, and showcases India’s evolving maritime strength through cutting-edge, home-grown solutions.
