Antsiranana, Madagascar: The Indian Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) Saksham arrived at Antsiranana port on March 18, 2025, as part of its overseas deployment to friendly nations in the Indian Ocean Region. The visit aims to enhance maritime cooperation between India and Madagascar, focusing on joint training, environmental protection, and security collaboration.
During its stay, the crew of ICGS Saksham will engage with the Madagascar Coast Guard in specialized training programs on Marine Pollution Response (MPR), Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR), and Maritime Law Enforcement. These sessions will include cross-deck training, knowledge exchange initiatives, and practical demonstrations to enhance both nations’ preparedness for maritime emergencies. The visit will also feature cultural exchanges and friendly sporting events, further strengthening bilateral ties between the two maritime forces.
A key aspect of the visit is the focus on marine environmental protection. Indian Coast Guard personnel will conduct specialized training sessions on handling oil spills, chemical leaks, and marine pollution incidents, equipping Madagascar’s maritime forces with the necessary skills to manage environmental disasters effectively. Additionally, in line with India’s ‘Puneet Sagar Abhiyan’, 10 NCC cadets and 10 Assam Rifles personnel onboard ICGS Saksham will collaborate with local youth organizations to conduct beach clean-up drives and awareness campaigns on marine conservation.
The deployment of ICGS Saksham to Madagascar underscores India’s commitment to its ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision, which promotes regional stability, security, and sustainable development across the Indian Ocean Region. The visit also highlights India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, showcasing its advancements in indigenous shipbuilding and maritime capabilities.
By fostering stronger diplomatic and security ties with Madagascar, ICGS Saksham’s mission reinforces India’s proactive engagement in regional maritime security, environmental protection, and cooperative development in the Indian Ocean.