Why in news?
Sanshodhak, the fourth and final Survey Vessel (Large) built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, was delivered to the Indian Navy on 30 March 2026. The ship will soon join the fleet to conduct detailed hydrographic surveys of India’s waters.
Background
In October 2018, the Ministry of Defence signed a contract with GRSE to design and construct four large survey vessels to replace the Navy’s ageing hydrographic fleet. The project supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission by ensuring that over 80 percent of equipment is sourced domestically. The first three ships — Sandhayak, Nirdeshak and Ikshak — were delivered earlier.
Features of Sanshodhak
- Size and performance: The vessel is about 110 metres long with a displacement of 3,400 tonnes. Twin diesel engines give it a top speed of over 18 knots.
- Hydrographic equipment: It carries a modern data acquisition system, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), long‑range differential GPS positioning systems and digital side‑scan sonar. These instruments map seabed topography and generate navigational charts.
- Survey capability: Sanshodhak can conduct coastal and deep‑water surveys as well as oceanographic and geophysical studies. It can also deploy smaller survey boats for areas where the main vessel cannot enter.
- Multi‑role utility: Besides mapping, the ship can assist in search‑and‑rescue missions, provide limited defence support and contribute to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
Significance
- Safe navigation: Accurate charts produced by survey vessels ensure the safety of ships navigating Indian waters, benefiting both commercial and naval vessels.
- Maritime domain awareness: Enhanced hydrographic data strengthens India’s ability to monitor its exclusive economic zone and aids in resource management and coastal development.
- Indigenous capability: Completing the four‑ship project demonstrates India’s growing proficiency in designing and building specialised vessels.
Conclusion
With Sanshodhak’s delivery, the Navy now has a modern fleet of survey vessels to chart its waters. These ships will play a crucial role in supporting maritime trade, defence operations and scientific research.
Source: Press Information Bureau
