Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan today commissioned Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Shaurya in Vasco, Goa. <br/><br/>ICGS Shaurya is an offshore patrol vessel designed and built indigenously by Goa Shipyard Ltd. It is fitted with advanced navigation and communication equipment.<br/><br/>Mr Pradhan said, Shaurya will add to the pride of the coast guard and the country. He also acknowledged the engineering capabilities of Goa Shipyard Ltd and Indian Coast Guard's surveillance support to exploration activities by oil companies. <br/><br/>Mr Pradhan said, people should appreciate the sacrifices and challenges in the role of organisations like the Indian Coast Guard and armed forces. <br/><br/>The petroleum minister said GAIL (India), Goa Shipyard Ltd and Indian Coast Guard will sign an MoU for using gas as marine fuel instead of high-speed diesel.<br/><br/>He added, the Indian economy needs to connect with the sea economy comprising minerals, oil, natural gas, corals, precious stones and biodiversity for India to become a superpower.<br/><br/>ICGS Shaurya can carry a twin engine light helicopter and five high speed boats including quick response interceptor boats for quick boarding operations, search and rescue, law enforcement and maritime patrol. <br/><br/>The ship is also capable of carrying pollution response equipment to combat oil spill contamination. <br/><br/>The ship is planned to be based at Chennai under the administrative and operational control of Commander Coast Guard Region (East).<br/><br/>