Indian Coast Guard decommissions its anti-smuggling ship

The Indian Coast Guard decommissioned its C-133 ship, which had served the force for almost 20 years, official sources said here today.
The ship, which was used for anti-smuggling, anti-poaching and evacuation activities off the Indian coast, was built by the Goa-based Anderson Marine Pvt Ltd and commissioned in May 1994.
Deputy Inspector General Coast Guard M V Baadkar chaired the decommissioning ceremony which saw the 20-year old vessel being lit all around, with commanding officers and men who had served on board earlier being present to bid adieu.
Baadkar said that the ship which had played a major role during its lifetime, would now be replaced by a bigger vessel.

"The interceptor boat has also been an integral part of the country's coastal security since its inception," a senior official said.
During the decommissioning ceremony, Baadkar was presented with a guard of honour.
The coast guard insignia and national flag were hauled down at sunset, after which the decommissioning pennant was brought down.