As part of its ongoing overseas deployment to Africa, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Ship, Sachet, an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) made a port call in Maputo, Mozambique on Saturday. The move symbolizes the ICG’s operational reach and commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation with friendly foreign countries.
A statement from the ICG spokesperson said that ICGS Sachet is carrying 20 MT of HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) material which includes medical stores and medicines. These will be handed over to Mozambican authorities under the Government of India’s MEA HADR efforts to support public health and disaster management capacities in Mozambique, and to reinforce friendly ties between both nations.
This deployment is in line with India’s broader maritime vision, encapsulated in “SAGAR, Security and Growth for All in the Region”, which aims to enhance regional security and cooperation. During their stay in Maputo, the crew of ICGS Sachet will engage in professional interactions with the Mozambican maritime agencies, focusing on key areas of Marine Pollution Response (MPR), Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR) and Maritime Law Enforcement.
Activities planned include onboard training on VBSS and Pollution Response, joint cultural events, sharing best practices and friendly sports competitions, all aimed at reinforcing ties between the ICG and its Mozambican counterparts.
The ship’s visit looks to enhance the capacity of Mozambican maritime agencies to address Maritime Crime, Maritime Search and Rescue and Environmental emergencies for ensuring a safer and more sustainable marine ecosystem.
In addition, as part of community engagement, personnel from ICGS Sachet, including National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets and Assam Rifles personnel, will participate in Environment Protection activities such as Beach Cleanup and Awareness Programs in collaboration with local youth organizations. This initiative contributes to the Government of India’s “Puneet Sagar Abhiyan” and enhances international outreach by sensitising the community about the impacts of marine pollution.