Sagarmala Parikrama

Source: This post on Sagarmala Parikrama has been created based on the article “Autonomous surface vessel completes 1,500-km voyage” published in The Hindu on 7th November 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, an autonomous surface vessel built by Sagar Defence Engineering has completed a 1,500-km journey from Mumbai to Thoothukudi without human intervention.

About Sagarmala Parikrama

1. Sagarmala Parikrama was undertaken in collaboration with the Indian Navy to advance autonomous maritime technology.

2. It was supported by the Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO). It received backing from the Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC) and Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) under the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO).

3. The project was virtually launched by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 29, during the Swavlamban event organized by NIIO.

4. Significance of the Journey: It marks a major milestone in India’s capabilities in autonomous and unmanned maritime systems.

It also highlights India’s strides towards self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) in advanced defence technologies.

5. Future Implications: The success of Sagarmala Parikrama sets the foundation for deploying autonomous vessels for: Monitoring critical sea lanes, coastal surveillance, anti-piracy operations and also aligns with global advancements in autonomous surface and underwater systems.

About Autonomous Surface Vessel (ASV)

1. Autonomous Surface Vessels is also known as unmanned surface vessels (USVs). They are watercraft that operate on the surface of the water without a crew on board.

2. These vessels are equipped with advanced sensors, navigation systems, and AI-based decision-making software that enable them to perform a variety of functions autonomously or under remote control.

3. ASVs are used in multiple domains, including marine research, defense, offshore industries, and environmental monitoring.

Key Features:

1. Sensors and Navigation: It is equipped with GPS, radar, LiDAR, sonar, and other sensors for obstacle detection, navigation, and mapping.

2. Artificial Intelligence: It utilizes AI to process data, make real-time navigation decisions, and optimize routes, enhancing operational efficiency and autonomy.

3. Remote and Autonomous Operation: It can be operated remotely or autonomously based on pre-programmed routes and tasks.

4. Energy Sources: It is often powered by a combination of batteries, solar panels, or small engines for sustainability and long-duration operations.

UPSC Syllabus: Defence