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“Indian Coast Guard is India’s foremost guard ensuring the security of our vast coastline,” says Rajnath Singh.
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 41st edition of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi today. The three-day event provides a critical platform for senior commanders to discuss key strategic, operational, and administrative issues affecting India’s maritime security landscape amidst evolving geopolitical challenges.
In his address, Shri Rajnath Singh hailed the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) as the nation’s primary line of defense, tasked with protecting India’s vast coastline and securing its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) from various threats, including terrorism and illicit trafficking of arms, drugs, and humans. The Minister paid tribute to the ICG personnel, acknowledging their bravery and commending their quick response during crises, such as the recent oil spill after Cyclone Michaung near Chennai.
Call for a Technology-Oriented Force
Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of the Coast Guard evolving from a manpower-centric to a technology-oriented force to effectively deal with modern maritime challenges. Highlighting the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum technology, and drones in transforming the security landscape, he underscored the need for ICG to leverage these technologies for stronger maritime defense.
“The world is witnessing a technological revolution,” the Minister said, “and maritime threats are bound to increase. It’s crucial that we remain vigilant and ready, with technology acting as a force multiplier.”
However, Shri Rajnath Singh also cautioned against the misuse of technology, labeling it as a “double-edged sword,” and urged the ICG to be proactive in tackling these challenges.
Aatmanirbharta in Maritime Defense
In line with the Government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Raksha Mantri reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to modernizing the ICG with indigenous platforms and equipment. He revealed that 31 ICG ships, worth over Rs 4,000 crore, are currently being constructed at Indian shipyards. Moreover, several new procurement initiatives, including Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft, Software Defined Radios, Interceptor Boats, and Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels, have received government approval.
Shri Rajnath Singh expressed confidence that the ICG will continue to enhance its operational capabilities while playing a key role in bolstering India’s defense sector with domestic production and indigenization.
Tributes to ICG Personnel and Collaboration with Other Services
The Raksha Mantri paid a heartfelt tribute to ICG DG Rakesh Pal, who recently passed away, describing his loss as “irreparable.” During the conference, commanders will also engage in discussions with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the Chief of Naval Staff, and the Engineer-in-Chief to foster greater collaboration among the armed services for enhanced maritime security.
Evaluating ICG’s Operational Progress
The conference will provide an opportunity for senior ICG leaders to review major operational and administrative initiatives undertaken in the past year. Discussions will also focus on the ‘Make in India’ initiative and ICG’s progress in indigenization, aligning with the broader vision of self-reliance in India’s defense capabilities.
This platform underscores ICG’s unwavering commitment to securing India’s maritime interests and driving technological advancement to meet emerging global threats.
