INS Ikshak: Advancing Hydrographic Capabilities of the Indian Navy

INS Ikshak Commissioned into the Indian Navy

Recently, the Indian Navy formally commissioned INS Ikshak at the Naval Base in Kochi. This vessel significantly strengthens India’s hydrographic capabilities and supports the Navy’s expanding maritime operations.

About INS Ikshak

Name Meaning: The word ‘Ikshak’ translates to “Guide” in Sanskrit, symbolizing the ship’s role in delivering precise and reliable hydrographic data.

Builder: The vessel is constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., Kolkata, a significant contributor to India’s indigenous shipbuilding programme.

Class & Deployment: INS Ikshak is the third ship of the Survey Vessel (Large) class and the first from this class to be positioned at the Southern Naval Command.

Women’s Accommodation: It is also the first Survey Vessel Large (SVL) designed with dedicated accommodation facilities for women personnel, showcasing the Navy’s commitment to inclusivity.

Key Features of INS Ikshak

• Advanced Survey Technology: The vessel is equipped with modern hydrographic and oceanographic instruments, including multi-beam echo sounders, autonomous underwater vehicles, and survey motor boats for high-precision data collection.
• Helicopter Deck: A fully capable helicopter deck extends the ship’s operational reach for coastal as well as deep-sea survey missions. This enhances the ship’s ability to support humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations, and medical evacuations.

Significance

• Boost to Hydrographic Capability: The commissioning of INS Ikshak advances the Navy’s mission of strengthening maritime domain awareness and producing accurate hydrographic charts essential for safe navigation.
• Promoting Self-Reliance: With over 80% indigenous components, the ship exemplifies India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defence manufacturing.
• Maritime Safety: The vessel will generate crucial data that enhances maritime safety and supports secure navigation across Indian waters, benefiting both military and civilian maritime activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of INS Ikshak in the Indian Navy?
Answer: The commissioning of INS Ikshak enhances India's hydrographic capabilities, supporting safe navigation and maritime domain awareness, crucial for both military and civilian operations.

Q2. What technologies does INS Ikshak utilize for hydrographic surveys?
Answer: INS Ikshak is equipped with advanced hydrographic and oceanographic instruments, including multi-beam echo sounders and autonomous underwater vehicles, ensuring precise data collection.

Q3. How does INS Ikshak promote inclusivity in the Indian Navy?
Answer: INS Ikshak is the first Survey Vessel Large designed with dedicated accommodation for women personnel, reflecting the Navy's commitment to gender inclusivity within its ranks.

Q4. Who built INS Ikshak?
Answer: INS Ikshak was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd. in Kolkata, which plays a significant role in India's indigenous shipbuilding efforts.

Q5. What role will INS Ikshak play in humanitarian operations?
Answer: The vessel is equipped with capabilities for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, enhancing the Navy's ability to respond to emergencies effectively.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does the name 'Ikshak' signify in Sanskrit?
A) Protector
B) Guide
C) Navigator
D) Defender
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which organization built INS Ikshak?
A) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
B) Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers
C) Cochin Shipyard Limited
D) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What is the primary purpose of INS Ikshak?
A) Military operations
B) Hydrographic surveys
C) Transportation
D) Research
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: How much of INS Ikshak's components are indigenous?
A) 50%
B) 70%
C) 80%
D) 90%
Correct Answer: C

Question 5: What feature does INS Ikshak have for women personnel?
A) Separate dining areas
B) Dedicated accommodation
C) Exclusive training programs
D) Reserved operational roles
Correct Answer: B