New Delhi, Sep 25 (IANS): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday commissioned the Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Varaha in Chennai on the concluding day of his two-day visit to the city.

The Varaha is an offshore patrol vehicle developed by the private agency, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), in accordance with a contract signed with the Defence Ministry.

It is the fourth among a series of seven ships to be delivered by L&T with features like ultra-advanced navigation and communication sensors. Varaha will operate from the port of New Mangalore on the West Coast covering the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) up to Kanyakumari.

"The name 'Varaha' is taken from the Puranas, who was the third incarnation of Lord Vishnu that took the form of a boar to protect the earth by carrying her out of the sea on its tusks. It reminds us of the principle of sacrifice and rescue in the duty of saving Mother Earth," the Minister said.

The state-of-the-art ship can operate the indigenously developed Advanced Light Helicopter of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. It is expected to add to the Coast Guard's strength in responding to the threats of maritime terrorism, smuggling and challenges of maritime law enforcement.

The ship is also well-equipped with high speed boats, medical facilities and modern surveillance systems. It can help provide search and rescue cover to mariners in distress at sea.