Second Indigenous Diving Support Vessel 'Nipun' Handed Over to Indian Navy
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Security
Why in news
The Indian Navy received its second indigenous Diving Support Vessel (DSV) 'Nipun' on 30 July 2026, marking a significant step in self-reliance in defence. This event highlights India's progress in indigenous warship building and strengthens naval capabilities for deep-sea operations.
Background
The vessel is part of India's indigenous warship building programme, with about 75% indigenous content, aligning with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' vision. It is built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited and designed to Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) standards.
Key facts
The second Diving Support Vessel (DSV) 'Nipun' was handed over to the Indian Navy on 30 July 2026 at Visakhapatnam.
It is built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited and designed to Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) classification standards.
The name 'Nipun' is derived from Sanskrit, meaning 'skilled, efficient, and proficient in a particular task'.
The vessel is equipped with advanced diving equipment for deep-sea saturation diving operations.
It features a side diving stage for diving operations.
Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) assist in diver monitoring and search and rescue operations.
It will serve as the main support ship for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV), aiding in rescuing personnel from submarines in emergencies.
Approximately 75% indigenous content has been used in its construction.
The induction strengthens the Indian Navy's operational capabilities for deep-sea specialized diving and search and rescue missions.
Prelims pointers
- Diving Support Vessel (DSV) 'Nipun'
- Hindustan Shipyard Limited
- Indian Register of Shipping (IRS)
- Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV)
- Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)
- Visakhapatnam
- Atmanirbhar Bharat
- Indigenous warship building programme
Mains angles
- Discuss the significance of indigenous shipbuilding for India's defence preparedness and self-reliance.
- Critically examine the role of Diving Support Vessels in enhancing naval search and rescue capabilities.
- Analyze the impact of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' on the defence sector, with reference to recent inductions.