New Delhi, 31 August (H.S.): The Indian Navy on Monday commissioned ‘Nipun’, the second Nistar-class Diving Support Vessel (DSV), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, significantly enhancing the force’s deep-sea diving and underwater support capabilities. The commissioning marks a new chapter in the vessel’s journey from construction to operational service.

Designed and built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam, Nipun represents a significant milestone in India’s efforts towards self-reliance in defence shipbuilding. The vessel was handed over to the Indian Navy on July 30 after completing an extensive programme of outfitting and trials.

Nipun is a purpose-built platform designed to support diving operations and a range of underwater missions. Equipped with advanced diving systems and underwater intervention capabilities, the vessel will provide sustained support to divers operating in challenging maritime environments. It will also strengthen the Navy’s ability to undertake submarine rescue operations.

The vessel is fitted with modern systems for navigation, platform management and precise station-keeping. It also features specialised facilities for diving, underwater intervention and medical support. These capabilities enable Nipun to function as an integrated platform for complex underwater operations.

The commissioning of Nipun will further strengthen the Indian Navy’s specialised diving and underwater operational capabilities across India’s maritime zones. The induction of the indigenously built platform also highlights the growing capabilities of the country’s shipbuilding ecosystem to develop technologically advanced and specialised vessels tailored to the operational requirements of the Navy.

Navy Captain Vivek Madhwal said the crest displayed on the vessel reflects its primary role as a Diving Support Vessel, as well as the courage, endurance and professional expertise associated with deep-sea diving.

The modern diving helmet depicted on the crest symbolises the vessel’s advanced diving systems and life-support capabilities, enabling divers to operate safely and effectively at considerable depths.

Together, the whale and diving helmet represent Nipun as a platform committed to taking divers into the depths, sustaining them during underwater operations and ensuring their safe return.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar