Indian Coast Guard Expands SAGAR Vision with Port Call at Maputo

New Delhi: The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) Sachet made a port call at Maputo, Mozambique, today as part of its ongoing overseas deployment to Africa, underscoring India’s commitment to fostering maritime cooperation with friendly nations. According to an official statement, the visit highlights the ICG’s operational reach and its role as an instrument of regional stability and partnership under the Government’s vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).

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As part of India’s humanitarian outreach, Sachet is carrying 20 metric tonnes of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) material, including medical stores and medicines, which will be handed over to Mozambican authorities. “The initiative reinforces India’s continued support for Mozambique’s public health and disaster management capacities,” the statement said.

During its stay in Maputo, the ship’s crew will engage with Mozambican maritime agencies through a series of professional exchanges focusing on Marine Pollution Response (MPR), Maritime Search & Rescue (M-SAR) and Maritime Law Enforcement. Activities will include onboard training on Visit, Board, Search & Seizure (VBSS) operations, pollution response drills, joint cultural events, and friendly sports engagements aimed at deepening interoperability and camaraderie between the two maritime forces.

In addition to professional interactions, the crew of Sachet — along with NCC cadets and Assam Rifles personnel — will participate in community initiatives such as beach clean-ups and marine awareness programmes in collaboration with local youth groups. These activities form part of the Government of India’s Puneet Sagar Abhiyan, a national campaign to combat marine pollution and promote environmental consciousness.