VASCO: The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sangram, one of the oldest Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessels (AOPV) of Indian Coast Guard was decommissioned on Wednesday after 26 years of service. The ship commanded by DIG Vijay Singh, TM was decommissioned at a sunset ceremony held at Mole Berth, Mormugao Port.
Inspector General AK Harbola, TM, Commander Coast Guard Region (NW), who had helmed the ship from 2013 to 2014, was the chief guest for the ceremony. Memorabilia showcasing the ship’s timeline and various achievements over the years was also displayed during the ceremony, witnessed by all senior officers, veterans and civil dignitaries.
ICGS Sangram was commissioned on March 29, 1997 at Goa by Admiral Vishnu Bhagwat, PVSM, AVSM, ADC, the then Chief of Naval Staff and was based at Mumbai under the operational command of the Commander Coast Guard Region (West). During her service, the ship participated in numerous operations including Anti-poaching, Search and Rescue and Medical Evacuation. It was rebased at Goa in 2021 under administrative control of District Headquarter No-11.
Sangram meaning ‘Battle’ is a projection of Indian Coast Guard will and commitment to protect the interest of the nation in Maritime Zones of India. Sangram was 101-metre-long and weighed 1,888 tonnes. The ship sailed for more than 3,000 days covering all maritime zones of India.
During the ceremony, an impressive guard of honour was given and Coast Guard Ensign was hauled down from the ship for the last time. Soon after the decommissioning pendant, which is equal to the length of the ship was lowered. The previous Commanding Officers along with a number of Officer’s and EPs, who have served onboard, were present for the event.
The Commanding Officer DIG Vijay Singh, TM made the report for decommissioning to the Chief Guest, IG AK Harbola, TM.
Addressing the gathering, chief guest, IG AK Harbola, TM, Commander Coast Guard Region (NW) highlighted the contribution of the ship for the Indian Coast Guard and the nation. He also shared various memories of his tenure onboard, a defence release said.