In a significant move for national maritime preparedness, the Raksha Mantri inaugurated the 42nd Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference at the ICG Headquarters in New Delhi. During his address, he emphasized the importance of formulating a forward-looking strategy to address evolving maritime challenges through advanced technology, enhanced preparedness, and adaptability.
The Defence Minister commended the professionalism and humanitarian efforts of the ICG, highlighting its increasing global stature as a crucial pillar of national security. He pointed out the force’s vital role in safeguarding India’s extensive coastline of 7,500 kilometers and its island territories. The transformation of the ICG from a modest fleet to a robust entity comprising 152 vessels and 78 aircraft exemplifies this evolution.
Key aspects of his address included:
Humanitarian Efforts: The Raksha Mantri lauded the ICG for its rapid disaster response and rescue missions, noting that as of July this year, it had carried out 76 search and rescue operations, saving 74 lives while cumulatively rescuing over 14,500 individuals since its establishment.
Maritime Enforcement: Singh detailed the ICG’s significant enforcement actions, which included the apprehension of 1,638 foreign vessels, detention of 13,775 foreign fishermen, and the seizure of 6,430 kilograms of narcotics valued at ₹37,833 crore.
Women Empowerment: The inclusion of women officers in frontline roles has marked a notable shift in the organization, with officers now serving as pilots, hovercraft operators, and air traffic controllers, thus promoting inclusive leadership within the force.
Indigenisation Initiatives: Singh highlighted that approximately 90% of the ICG’s capital budget is now channelled towards indigenous platforms, which bolsters the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and strengthens the nation’s shipbuilding capabilities.
Addressing Evolving Threats: The need for the ICG to counter modern challenges, such as the use of drones, GPS spoofing, encrypted communications, cyber warfare, and dark web-enabled networks, was pronounced. Utilizing AI-enabled surveillance and automated response systems was presented as essential for future preparedness.
Geopolitical Context: The Minister underscored how political instability in neighboring countries such as Myanmar and Bangladesh has direct implications for India’s maritime security.
"The nature of warfare has evolved to be measured in hours and seconds," the Raksha Mantri noted. He called for the ICG to focus on preparedness, adaptability, and rapid response as foundational elements of its operational vision, advocating for the integration of emerging technologies and improved coordination with the Navy, civil administration, and other relevant agencies.
Furthermore, the Minister articulated a connection between maritime security and economic stability, warning that disruptions to ports, shipping lanes, or energy infrastructure can have significant repercussions for national security.
Looking towards the future, Singh urged the ICG to align its strategies with India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by the centenary of independence in 2047. He invoked the ICG’s motto “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), framing it as a commitment to protect future generations.
The three-day conference, running from September 28 to 30, is set to review operational, logistical, and human resources priorities, with a focus on maritime domain awareness, indigenisation, and inter-agency coordination. The Director General of ICG, Rakesh Sivamani, presented an overview of recent achievements and strategic aspirations. Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, including Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Secretary of Defence Production Sanjeev Kumar, also participated in the event.
