What is Sagar Nidhi?

Why in News?

• The event took place under the framework of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) between the nations of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

About Sagar Nidhi:

• Ocean Research Vessel (ORV) Sagar Nidhi is a multidisciplinary vessel operated by the National Institute of Ocean Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences. 
• It was built in 2007 by Fincantieri, Italy. 
• It is India’s third research vessel after Sagar Purvi and Sagar Paschimi.
• Features:
  • It is 104 metres long and 18 metres wide.
  • It is powered by fully automatic diesel-electric propulsion.
  • It is designed with blue-water capability with ranges of up to 10,000 nautical miles (19,000 km) for voyages lasting up to 45 days.
  • It is equipped to launch submersible capsules capable of taking scientists to a depth of six km below sea level.
• Uses:
  • The vessel is capable of carrying out geo-scientific, meteorological and oceanographic research.
  • The vessel would be used for launching tsunami monitoring systems and remotely operable vehicles, for identifying mines and gas hydrates.
  • It would provide a cutting-edge reference point for the study of marine theatres of operation, including tropical and polar environments.

What is the Colombo Security Conclave?

• The Colombo Security Conclave was formed in 2011 as a trilateral maritime security grouping of India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
• The roadmap of activities was later expanded, with Mauritius joining as the fourth member and Bangladesh & Seychelles participating as observer countries.
• The Conclave underlines regional cooperation and shared security objectives concerning all littoral nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• It aims to make maritime security, marine pollution response and maritime search & rescue priorities for the region.