Indian Coast Guard News, New Delhi – The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has significantly strengthened India’s coastal security through enhanced surveillance, infrastructure investments, and community engagement, as detailed by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth in a written reply to Shri Krishna Prasad Tenneti in the Lok Sabha. These initiatives underscore India’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime borders and maintaining a rule-based order at sea.
Extensive Surveillance Operations
The ICG deploys 18-20 ships, 30-35 crafts, and 10-12 aircraft daily to monitor India’s coastline, including Offshore Development Areas (ODA) and the seas around the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands. Supported by the
- Coastal Surveillance Network (CSN),
- Remote Operating Stations (ROS), and
- Remote Operating Centres (ROCs),
these efforts ensure robust maritime law enforcement.
Over the past decade, the ICG has conducted
- 3,00,296 boarding operations,
- 153 coastal security exercises,
- 451 coastal security operations,
- 458 security drills, and
- 3,645 joint coastal patrol sorties
to deter illegal activities.
Crackdown on Maritime Violations
The ICG’s vigilance has led to significant enforcement actions, with 179 boats seized and 1,683 personnel arrested over the last 10 years for illegally entering Indian waters.
These vessels were involved in activities such as
- poaching,
- narcotics smuggling, and
- illegal immigration,
demonstrating the ICG’s proactive stance in curbing maritime threats.
Major Investments in Infrastructure
To enhance coastal security, the ICG has utilized Rs 12,201 crore for acquiring ships and aircraft, bolstering its operational capabilities across India.
Additionally, Rs 1,583.8 crore has been invested in the CSN to strengthen surveillance infrastructure, ensuring comprehensive monitoring of coastal areas.
Standardized Coastal Security Protocols
The ICG has introduced Coastal Security Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for coastal states and Union Territories, outlining the responsibilities of stakeholder agencies, operational guidelines, and response mechanisms.
These SOPs aim to streamline coordination and enhance preparedness for potential threats along India’s 7,516-km coastline.
Community Engagement and Training
To foster maritime safety and security, the ICG conducts regular Community Interaction Programmes with fisherfolk, discussing critical issues and encouraging vigilance.
Fishermen watch groups, established by coastal states, further support monitoring efforts. The ICG also provides training to its personnel and marine police to ensure effective execution of coastal security roles.
A Commitment to Maritime Safety
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth emphasized that these measures reflect India’s dedication to protecting its maritime domain.
By combining advanced surveillance, enforcement actions, and community collaboration, the ICG continues to fortify coastal security, safeguarding national interests and promoting stability in the region.