In a significant move towards enhancing coastal security and raising public awareness, the Indian Naval Ship ‘INS Kuthar’ made its inaugural visit to the deep-sea port of Gopalpur in the Ganjam district. Scheduled for November 24-25, this two-day visit follows the completion of the fourth edition of the ‘Pan-India’ Coastal Defence Exercise ‘Sea Vigil-24’, which took place from November 20-21.
The primary goal of INS Kuthar’s visit is to engage with the local community on matters pertaining to maritime operations and coastal security. The ship’s officers are expected to meet with port officials to discuss critical topics such as berthing facilities and the overall security of the port infrastructure.
INS Kuthar is an indigenously designed guided missile corvette that has been part of the Indian Navy since its commissioning on June 7, 1990. With a displacement of 1,400 tonnes, the vessel measures 91 metres in length and 11 metres in beam. It boasts capabilities of exceeding speeds of 25 knots, supported by a crew comprising 12 officers and 120 sailors. The warship is outfitted with a sophisticated selection of weaponry and technology, including surface-to-surface missiles, medium and close-range guns, shoulder-launched surface-to-air missiles, and a chaff launcher. Additionally, it can operate a Chetak helicopter, which facilitates a range of roles, from coastal patrolling to anti-piracy operations.
The vessel’s name, ‘Kuthar’, is derived from a hand-held battle axe traditionally used by warriors, and its crest design reflects this heritage, featuring a traditional Kuthar on a red background with blue and white ocean waves below. The motto of the ship, ‘Fear God and Dread Nought’, signifies its unwavering commitment to fulfilling its mission, whether in peace or in battle.
INS Kuthar played an integral role in ‘Sea Vigil-24’, which sought to raise awareness about maritime security among coastal communities. The exercise also involved the participation of local fishing communities, as well as students from the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and Bharat Scouts and Guides. By promoting this participatory approach, the exercise reinforces the importance of community involvement in coastal defense initiatives.
Enhancing preparedness, ‘Sea Vigil-24’ focused on evaluating infrastructure and readiness of essential coastal assets, including Marine police outposts, ports, lighthouses, fishing harbors, and fish landing centers. This not only aims to ensure the operational readiness of these facilities but also strengthens India’s commitment towards resilient coastal defense.
As part of the overall framework of Sea Vigil-24, a Coastal Defence and Security Readiness Evaluation (CDSRE) was conducted, which involved collaborative efforts from the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, Customs, and various state agencies focused on coastal security across Odisha’s six coastal districts.
While coastal security exercises have traditionally been conducted by individual states and maritime security agencies, Exercise Sea Vigil stands out as a unique national-level initiative that delivers a comprehensive assessment of India’s maritime defense capabilities, emphasizing the need for cohesive and coordinated efforts in safeguarding the country’s coastline.
