Source: PIB

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Context

• INS Sunayna and SCGS Zoroaster arrived at Port Victoria, Seychelles, on 15 June 2024, with a warm reception from the Seychelles Coast Guard and Indian Embassy officials.
• Indian Navy and Seychelles Defence Forces personnel will engage in official interactions, social events, and joint EEZ surveillance
• The visit aims to strengthen cooperation between the Indian Navy and Seychelles Coast Guard, supporting the SAGAR vision

Details

INS Sunayna

Class and Commissioning

• INS Sunayna is a Saryu class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV).
• It was commissioned at Kochi in 2013.
• The vessel is the second of the Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV) class of ships.

Base and Builder:

• INS Sunayna is based under the Southern Naval Command.
• It was constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited.

Design and Capabilities:

• The ship is designed to meet the increasing ocean surveillance and patrolling requirements of the Indian Navy.
• It can achieve speeds of up to 25 knots.
• The warship is equipped with an automatic power management system.
• INS Sunayna is fitted with the latest Navigation, Communication, and Electronic Support Systems.

Operational Roles:

• The vessel is capable of undertaking a variety of operations including:
  • Fleet support operations.
  • Coastal and offshore patrolling.
  • Ocean surveillance.
  • Monitoring of Sea Lines of Communications and offshore assets.
  • Escort duties.

Significance:

• INS Sunayna plays a crucial role in enhancing the Indian Navy’s operational reach and capability, ensuring maritime security and safeguarding national interests in the region.

Saryu Class Vessels:

• Other ships in the Saryu class include:
  • INS Sumitra.
  • INS Sumedha.

About SAGAR(Security and Growth for All in the Region)

Overview

• SAGAR is India's strategic vision for the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), launched in
• It aims to enhance regional cooperation, maritime security, and economic development among IOR countries.

Features:

• Maritime Security: Enhances safety through joint patrols and capacity-building against piracy.
• Economic Cooperation: Boosts trade, infrastructure, and sustainable resource management.
• Humanitarian Assistance: Provides aid during crises, fostering regional stability.
• Diplomatic Engagement: Promotes trust and cooperation among Indian Ocean nations.
• Environmental Sustainability: Advocates for protecting marine resources and ecosystems..

Sources:

 PIB

PRACTICE QUESTION Q.  Discuss the significance of India's 'Security and Growth for All in the Region' (SAGAR) initiative in enhancing maritime security and fostering economic cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). (15 marks)