Daily Current Affairs : 1-September-2023

On a sunny day in Titagarh, Kolkata, history was made as the Indian Navy marked a significant milestone in its naval capabilities. The first ship of the Diving Support Craft (DSC) project, named DSC A 20 and designated as Yard 325, was gracefully launched into the water. This event was not only a momentous occasion for the Indian Navy but also a testament to India’s growing prowess in shipbuilding and maritime technology. This essay delves into the DSC project, its purpose, and the significance of diving support vessels in the world of professional diving.

Empowering Diving Operations: DSC A-20 Launch: What You Should Know
Courtesy:PIB
The DSC Project

Built by M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL)

The DSC A 20 was constructed by M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL), a company dedicated to producing cutting-edge maritime vessels. The fact that this vessel is a product of indigenous design and manufacturing showcases India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense and its ability to adhere to the rigorous Naval Rules and Regulations set forth by the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).

Purpose: Operational and Training Diving

The primary purpose of the DSCs is to serve as diving support vessels capable of conducting operational and training diving operations in harbors and coastal waters. These vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art diving equipment and tools essential for safely and efficiently conducting diving missions.

Five DSCs Anticipated for FY 2024-25

The launch of DSC A 20 marked the initiation of a project involving a total of five Diving Support Craft. These vessels are expected to be delivered to the Indian Navy in the fiscal year 2024-25. This endeavor underscores the nation’s commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of its naval divers.

The Significance of Diving Support Vessels

A Crucial Support System

Diving support vessels play a pivotal role in the world of professional diving. As the name suggests, these vessels are instrumental in providing the necessary support for divers who venture into the depths of the oceans. The work of professional divers, whether for commercial purposes or military operations, is a complex and demanding task that requires precise equipment and logistical support.

A Historical Evolution

The concept of diving support vessels emerged approximately four to five decades ago. Since then, they have evolved to become indispensable assets for both commercial and military diving endeavors. These vessels have greatly improved the safety, efficiency, and success rates of diving operations in various maritime settings.

Important Points:

The DSC Project:

  • DSC A 20, the first ship of the Diving Support Craft (DSC) project, was launched in Titagarh, Kolkata.
  • The project includes a total of five DSCs, with DSC A 24 being the last one, whose keel was laid during the launch of DSC A 20.
  • M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL) is responsible for building these indigenous vessels.
  • These ships adhere to Indian Naval Rules and Regulations and the standards of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
  • The primary purpose of DSCs is to conduct operational and training diving operations in harbors and coastal waters.
  • They are equipped with state-of-the-art diving equipment and tools.
  • All five DSCs are expected to be delivered to the Indian Navy in the fiscal year 2024-25.

The Significance of Diving Support Vessels:

  • Diving support vessels are crucial for providing the necessary support for divers in oceans.
  • They have been in existence for about four to five decades and play a vital role in professional diving.
  • These vessels enhance the safety, efficiency, and success rates of diving operations.
  • They are essential for both commercial and military diving endeavors, making them indispensable assets in maritime settings.
Why In News

‘DSC A 20’ (Yard 325), the inaugural vessel of the Five (05) Diving Support Craft (DSC) project for the Indian Navy, set sail for its maiden voyage from Titagarh, Kolkata (WB).In a symbolic gesture of progress, the keel of the final Diving Support Craft (DSC), known as DSC A 24, was ceremoniously laid on the same day as the launch of the first DSC.

MCQs about DSC A-20

  1. What is the primary purpose of the Diving Support Craft (DSC) project?
    A. To transport cargo in harbors and coastal waters.
    B. To conduct operational and training diving operations.
    C. To serve as naval warships.
    D. To explore deep-sea ecosystems.
    Correct Answer: B. To conduct operational and training diving operations.
    Explanation: The primary purpose of the DSCs is to serve as diving support vessels capable of conducting operational and training diving operations in harbors and coastal waters.
  2. Who is responsible for building the DSC A 20 and other vessels in the project?
    A. Indian Navy Shipyard
    B. M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL)
    C. Indian Maritime Corporation
    D. Foreign shipbuilder
    Correct Answer: B. M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL)
    Explanation: The DSC A 20 was built by M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL).
  3. When are all five DSCs anticipated to be delivered to the Indian Navy?
    A. In FY 2022-23
    B. In FY 2023-24
    C. In FY 2024-25
    D. In FY 2025-26
    Correct Answer: C. In FY 2024-25
    Explanation: The all five DSCs are anticipated to be delivered to the Indian Navy in the fiscal year 2024-25.
  4. What is the significance of diving support vessels?
    A. They are used for deep-sea exploration.
    B. They have been in use for only a few years.
    C. They enhance the safety and success of diving operations.
    D. They are primarily used for cargo transport.
    Correct Answer: C. They enhance the safety and success of diving operations.
    Explanation: The diving support vessels play a pivotal role in enhancing the safety, efficiency, and success rates of diving operations, making them crucial in professional diving.

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