The 42nd Commanders Conference of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) started at the Coast Guard Headquarters in New Delhi. This three days will be held from 28 to 30 September. This is an annual big platform, where senior ICG officials discuss strategy, operation and administrative issues. This conference is very important amidst changing geopolitical conditions and marine security challenges.
Defense Minister address: Importance of Indian Ocean
Defense Minister Shri Rajnath Singh addressed the conference today. He spoke to Director General Parmesh Shivamani and other senior commanders. In his main speech, he explained the increasing strategic importance of the Indian Ocean region (IOR). He said that this region is the main corridor of global trade, energy flow and geopolitical activities.
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The Defense Minister appreciated the development of ICG from establishment in 1977. Today ICG has 152 ships and 78 aircraft. His Moto ‘Raksham himself:’ That is, ‘We protect’. He praised the ICG’s loyalty and contribution to coastal security. The coast defense has been strengthened by layered maritime patrol and coastal surveillance network (CSN).
Success on international front: action on foreign ships
The Defense Minister stated the success of ICG in preventing infiltration of foreign fishing. From the beginning 1,638 foreign ships have been caught from the beginning from continuous patrolling and strict checking. 13775 foreign fishermen were arrested for illegal work in the Indian waters. This is an example of marine law enforcement.
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Seizure of drugs: 37,833 crore goods
The Defense Minister praised the amazing ICG in maritime law enforcement. So far, more than 6,430 kg of narcotics have been seized, which cost Rs 37,833 crore. These figures show the growing strength of ICG against maritime crimes across the border.
Search and Rescue: Answer to the call of the sea
The Defense Minister emphasized the role of ICG in Search and Rescue Operations. Their promise is that no call from the sea will be unheard. By July this year, 76 SAR missions run, 74 lives were saved. In total, more than 14500 people were saved in disaster relief.
He appreciated the fast action of ICG in risky accidents like MV Van High 503 Fire and MV MSC ELSA-3 drowning. It is an example of operational capacity and environmental protection.
India’s maritime power: fight with non-traditional threats
The Defense Minister emphasized the growing role of ICG, calling India a major maritime power. It is necessary to fight non-traditional threats like terrorism, illegal fishing, smuggling and marine pollution. CSN has increased real-time capacity.
Inauguration of DG: Recent progress and future plan
DG Parmesh Shivamani inaugurated the conference. He introduced ICG’s recent progress, challenges and strategic vision. In three days, there will be a discussion with stakeholders like Navy Chief and Engineer-in-Chief.
- Focus: Coordination between services, maritime field awareness and operation integration.
- Discussion topics: Operations, logistics, human resource development, training and administration. Connecting capabilities with national maritime priorities and increasing India’s presence in the maritime sector.
Emphasis on indigenization: self -sufficient India
Indigenization and self -sufficiency are the main focus. Progress will be reviewed under Make in India. ICG’s dependence on indigenous platforms and techniques is a proof of self -sufficient India.
Conclusions: resolve to protect sea borders
The 42nd Commanders Conference repeats the promise of ICG – security of India’s huge maritime borders. It will strengthen the reliable, sensitive and flexible role of ICG as a regional maritime security provider. ICG’s hard work will increase India’s maritime strength.
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