In a noteworthy demonstration of collaboration between India’s security agencies, Director General Paramesh Sivamani of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) held a meeting with Director General Daljit Singh Chawdhary of the Border Security Force (BSF) on Friday at the BSF headquarters. The discussions centered on national security concerns and mutual interests, highlighting the dedication of both organizations to protect India’s borders and coastal areas.
During the meeting, DG Sivamani and DG Chawdhary shared insights on pressing security issues impacting the nation. The encounter concluded with a ceremonial exchange of mementos, symbolizing the increasingly strong partnership between the two forces.
Visuals from the meeting captured the two leaders in uniform; DG Sivamani donned naval attire, while DG Chawdhary was seen in BSF camouflage, engaged in both serious exchanges and lighter conversation, with the BSF emblem prominently displayed in the backdrop.
Since taking over as the 26th Director General of the Indian Coast Guard on October 15, 2024, following the unfortunate passing of his predecessor Rakesh Pal, DG Paramesh Sivamani has leveraged his extensive experience in navigation and management of coastal operations. Under his leadership, the Coast Guard has made significant strides, including notable seizures of drugs and gold, successful rescue missions during adverse weather conditions, and collaborative exercises with international coast guard forces.
Meanwhile, DG Daljit Singh Chawdhary, a 1990-batch IPS officer from Uttar Pradesh, gained an additional role overseeing the BSF in August 2024 amid escalating security threats in Jammu along the India-Pakistan border. In his dual capacity as head of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and BSF, Chawdhary has played a critical role in responding to a series of terrorist attacks and bolstering border safety measures.
The meeting comes in the context of recent initiatives in India’s security strategy, particularly highlighted in a U.S.-India joint leaders’ statement from February 2025. This statement called for enhanced cooperation to tackle transnational crime and improve border management. The partnership between the ICG and BSF is viewed as a pivotal move in fortifying India’s coastal and land border security against an evolving array of threats.
The Indian Coast Guard and BSF serve as vital elements of India’s security framework, charged with safeguarding the country’s maritime boundaries and land borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh, respectively. Their combined efforts are anticipated to bolster coordination and effectiveness in combating cross-border issues such as smuggling, terrorism, and unauthorized migration.
