All About INS Nistar: Role in India’s Maritime Security

All About INS Nistar: A Leap in Naval Capabilities
1. Indigenous Design & Construction
Built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) as part of a two-vessel project.
Over 80% indigenous content, involving 120+ MSMEs—showcasing India’s shipbuilding prowess.
Aligns with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, with all 57 upcoming warships being made in India.

2. Advanced Deep-Sea Operations
Equipped with Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), Diving Compression Chambers, and a Self-Propelled Hyperbaric Life Boat.
Can conduct diving and salvage operations up to 300 meters deep.
Serves as a ‘Mother Ship’ for submarine rescue missions, aiding distressed submarines.

3. Strategic Importance
Strengthens India’s role as a ‘First Responder’ and ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in the Indian Ocean Region.
Enhances submarine rescue support for India and neighboring nations.
Boosts the Navy’s underwater domain dominance.

4. Key Features
Length: 118 meters | Displacement: Over 10,000 tons.
Designed for saturation diving—a rare capability among global navies.
Supports humanitarian and disaster relief operations.

5. Leadership’s Perspective
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth called it a “technological leap” in India’s defense sector.
Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi emphasized its role as a critical operational enabler for submarine rescues.


Sample Questions & Answers for Competitive Exams
Q1. What is the primary role of INS Nistar?
Ans: It is a Diving Support Vessel (DSV) designed for deep-sea diving, submarine rescue, and salvage operations.
Q2. How deep can INS Nistar operate for diving missions?
Ans: Up to 300 meters, making it capable of complex underwater operations.
Q3. Which shipyard built INS Nistar?
Ans: Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam.
Q4. How does INS Nistar support ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’?
Ans: With 80% indigenous components and collaboration with 120+ MSMEs, it showcases India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Q5. Why is INS Nistar strategically significant for India?
Ans: It reinforces India’s role as a ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in submarine rescue and deep-sea missions.


Why is INS Nistar Important for Exams?
UPSC/SSC/PSC: Covers defense technology, indigenization, and naval advancements.
NID/NIFT/KAS: Tests general awareness on current affairs and national achievements.
Key Topics: Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Indian Navy’s modernization, deep-sea exploration.