NE DEFENCE BUREAU
CHENNAI, JUNE 1
As the evening sun dipped below the waters of the Bay of Bengal, an era quietly came to an end at Chennai Port. Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarang, a steadfast guardian of India’s maritime frontiers for nearly three decades, was decommissioned on May 31, 2026, in a solemn ceremony marked by military precision, patriotic pride and heartfelt emotion.
An Emotional Sunset for a Faithful Guardian
- Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarang decommissioned with full military honours at Chennai Port.
- The indigenous vessel served the nation with distinction for 27 years across India’s maritime domain.
- Former commanding officers and sailors reunite to honour a ship that became their second home.
- Sarang played a crucial role in maritime security, search and rescue operations, and major emergencies.
- The ceremony celebrated India’s growing self-reliance in shipbuilding and maritime defence.
For many officers and sailors who had served aboard her, Sarang was far more than steel and machinery. She was a trusted companion through storms, emergencies and countless missions undertaken in service of the nation.
A Hawk That Watched Over India’s Seas
Named after the “Hawk,” Sarang symbolised vigilance, courage, determination and protection.
Commissioned on June 21, 1999, by Vice Admiral V.A. Kamath (Retd.), the first Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, the vessel initially operated from Mumbai before being rebased to Chennai in 2002.
Over the years, Sarang became a familiar and reassuring presence across India’s vast maritime expanse, standing watch over the nation’s coastline and safeguarding critical maritime interests.
Its very name reflected the values cherished by the Coast Guard—truth over falsehood, duty over complacency and light over darkness.
A Ship Built in India, Serving India
Sarang also represents an important chapter in India’s journey towards self-reliance.
Built indigenously by Goa Shipyard Limited, the vessel was among the early symbols of India’s growing shipbuilding capability. At a time when indigenous defence manufacturing was still evolving, Sarang showcased the nation’s industrial ambition and technological confidence.
Today, as India advances rapidly under the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Sarang’s legacy stands as a reminder of the foundations laid by such pioneering platforms.
When Duty Called, Sarang Answered
Throughout its distinguished 27-year service, the Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel built an enviable operational record.
The vessel participated in numerous maritime security missions, surveillance operations, search and rescue efforts and humanitarian assignments.
Among its most notable contributions was its role during the firefighting operations aboard the Motor Tanker New Diamond off the coast of Sri Lanka, an incident that tested the courage and professionalism of Coast Guard personnel.
Time and again, Sarang proved why the Coast Guard is often referred to as the nation’s silent maritime shield.
A Reunion of Memories and Service
The decommissioning ceremony brought together former commanding officers, officers and sailors who had served aboard the vessel across different phases of its life.
As the ceremonial guard of honour stood in formation and the Coast Guard ensign was lowered for the final time, many reflected on the memories forged at sea—months away from family, challenging missions, moments of triumph and bonds that lasted a lifetime.
The lowering of the decommissioning pennant, stretching the full length of the ship, marked the formal conclusion of a remarkable chapter in Indian maritime history.
A Legacy That Will Continue to Inspire
Presiding over the ceremony, Additional Director General Donny Michael, AVSM, PTM, TM, Commander, Coast Guard Eastern Seaboard, paid tribute to Sarang’s exemplary service and operational achievements.
He highlighted the vessel’s significant contributions to maritime security and its unwavering commitment to protecting India’s interests at sea.
While Sarang’s engines may now fall silent, the spirit of service, courage and patriotism she embodied will continue to inspire future generations of Coast Guard personnel.
For the men and women who sailed aboard her, and for a grateful nation, Sarang will forever remain a proud sentinel of the seas.
