In a 
remarkable stride towards self-reliance, the Indian Navy is set to commission INS Ikshak — the third vessel in the Survey Vessel (Large) class — at Naval Base Kochi on 6 November 2025. This indigenous marvel represents India’s growing expertise in naval design, shipbuilding, and hydrographic science.
Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, Ikshak is a living example of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, boasting over 80% indigenous content. Designed by the Warship Design Bureau, it demonstrates India’s ability to create world-class ships using local technology and talent.
The word Ikshak means “Guide” in Sanskrit — a fitting name for a vessel destined to chart new paths in ocean mapping and navigation.
Technological Prowess Meets Modern Design:-
INS Ikshak is equipped to carry out comprehensive hydrographic surveys, mapping ports, coastlines, and deep-sea areas with remarkable precision. The ship features state-of-the-art systems, including a multi-beam echo sounder, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), and Survey Motor Boats (SMBs).
Its helicopter deck enhances operational reach, allowing the ship to conduct extended survey and support missions. Beyond scientific duties, Ikshak can be deployed for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), making it invaluable during natural calamities. In emergencies, it can even operate as a floating hospital.
Breaking Waves of Inclusion:-
In a historic first for its class, Ikshak has been designed with dedicated accommodation for women officers and sailors, showcasing the Navy’s evolving commitment to gender inclusivity. This marks a progressive step toward creating a more balanced and diverse maritime force where women can serve on equal footing with their male counterparts.
Strategic Significance of INS Ikshak:-
Hydrography is vital to both maritime trade and national defence. Accurate seabed data ensures the safety of navigation, supports submarine operations, and enhances maritime domain awareness. INS Ikshak will play a central role in charting India’s coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), providing precise oceanographic data for defence, research, and commerce.
Its induction significantly boosts India’s hydrographic capability, ensuring safer navigation for all vessels in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). By supporting neighbouring nations with survey assistance, India strengthens its image as a responsible maritime power.
Driving the Vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat:-
The commissioning of Ikshak represents a powerful success story of indigenous defence manufacturing. The ship’s construction involved collaboration between public sector units, MSMEs, and private industries — all contributing to the growth of India’s defence ecosystem.
Projects like Ikshak highlight how the Make in India movement is reshaping the naval landscape, creating local jobs, promoting innovation, and reducing foreign dependency.
Navigating Towards a Stronger Future:-
With INS Ikshak joining the fleet, the Indian Navy now possesses one of the most advanced hydrographic platforms in Asia. Its ability to perform multi-mission roles — from survey to disaster relief — enhances the nation’s readiness for both peacetime and crisis operations.
Beyond its technical capabilities, Ikshak symbolizes India’s maritime evolution — blending indigenous innovation, modern naval architecture, and social progress into one formidable vessel.
Conclusion:-
As INS Ikshak prepares to hoist the Indian flag and set sail, it signifies much more than a ship’s commissioning. It embodies the strength of Indian craftsmanship, the depth of naval vision, and the promise of a self-reliant maritime future.
Through Ikshak, India truly charts a new course in indigenous hydrographic excellence — guiding the nation toward oceans of opportunity and innovation.