Indian Coast Guard decommissions ICGS Savitribai Phule at Karwar

The Indian Coast Guard has decommissioned the ICGS Savitribai Phule at Karwar port, marking the end of nearly two decades of service. The Sarojini Naidu-Class fast patrol vessel, which was built by Goa Shipyard Limited and commissioned in 2006, was retired during a formal sunset ceremony.

Throughout its operational career, the 270-ton vessel played a critical role in India’s maritime security, including exclusive economic zone surveillance, anti-smuggling operations, and search and rescue missions. The ship was capable of speeds up to 35 knots and was noted for several successful rescue operations, such as saving crew members near Lakshadweep in 2019 and assisting distressed fishing vessels near Suratkal and Karwar in 2018 and 2024.

The decommissioning is part of the Indian Coast Guard’s ongoing fleet modernization program, which involves replacing older assets with newer patrol vessels to maintain maritime vigilance.