25 April 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC
1. Keel Laying of Fourth Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel Yard (3040)
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2124194)
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Topic: GS Paper 3 – Defence & Security, |
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Context |
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Key Highlights of the Announcement
- The ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition.
- GRSE (Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd), a key defense PSU, is building 4 out of 11 NGOPVs, with 7 being constructed by GSL (Goa Shipyard Ltd).
- The vessels will have a displacement of approximately 3000 tonnes and are designed for multipurpose maritime roles.
About NGOPVs (Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels)
- Functionality: Designed for Coastal Defence, Surveillance, Search and Rescue (SAR), Protection of Offshore Assets, and Anti-Piracy Missions.
- Strategic Role: Enhances India’s maritime security apparatus and blue water navy ambitions.
- Technology: Built with modern navigation and communication systems to support long-range patrols.
- Production Approach: Reflects decentralized and phased manufacturing between lead and follow shipyards.
Significance under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’
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Objective |
Contribution |
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Indigenous Defence Manufacturing |
Promotes local production and reduces import dependence |
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Employment Generation |
Creates skilled labor opportunities in shipbuilding and related industries |
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Strategic Autonomy |
Boosts India’s self-reliance in maritime defense capabilities |
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Technology Transfer |
Supports the domestic development of advanced defense tech |
Challenges and Way Forward
- Timely Delivery: Adherence to project timelines is crucial to avoid cost overruns.
- Technological Ecosystem: Need for sustained R&D in naval systems and materials.
- Private Sector Involvement: Encouraging PPP in defense manufacturing can diversify capabilities.
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Practice Question: Discuss the significance of the Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) in enhancing India’s maritime security and promoting indigenous defence manufacturing. (10 marks) |
Check this out 24 April 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC
