PM Modi commissions three indigenously built warships – INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak, INS Agray – Enhancing India’s Maritime Self‑Reliance (June 2026)

Overview On 21 June 2026 , Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three indigenously designed and built naval vessels at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata . The ships – INS Dunagiri (stealth frigate), INS Sanshodhak (large survey vessel) and INS Agray (anti‑submarine warfare craft) – are meant to strengthen India’s maritime security and showcase the country’s growing self‑reliance in defence manufacturing. Key Developments All three ships were designed by the Warship Design Bureau and built by GRSE in Kolkata. More than 200 MSMEs participated, achieving an indigenous content of over 75 % . The commissioning coincides with World Hydrography Day , underscoring the strategic value of hydrographic surveys. Prime Minister Modi linked the event to the broader Aatmanirbhar Bharat drive and the Sagarmala initiative. Important Facts • INS Dunagiri is an advanced stealth frigate designed for multi‑role operations. • INS Sanshodhak is India’s most advanced hydrographic survey vessel, enhancing Maritime Domain Awareness . • INS Agray is a shallow‑water anti‑submarine warfare craft, expanding coastal defence capabilities. • Over 40 indigenously built warships and submarines have entered service in recent years; 45 major platforms are under construction. UPSC Relevance The event illustrates several themes that frequently appear in the UPSC syllabus: India’s push for defence self‑reliance aligns with Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the shift from a net importer to a net exporter of defence equipment (GS3). The role of the maritime sector in economic growth, trade security and the Blue Economy is a key topic in GS3. Policy measures such as the Sagarmala programme demonstrate how infrastructure drives regional development and employment (GS3). The involvement of MSMEs highlights the government’s focus on inclusive industrial growth (GS3). Way Forward To sustain the momentum, the government is likely to: Continue expanding the domestic shipbuilding base with incentives and technology transfer. Strengthen the supply chain for critical components such as steel, electronics and propulsion systems. Promote export of indigenously built warships to friendly nations, enhancing strategic partnerships. Integrate maritime security with broader economic initiatives like Sagarmala to create jobs and boost coastal economies. These steps will reinforce India’s position as a major maritime power and support the nation’s strategic, economic and security objectives.