New Delhi: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) celebrated its 48th Raising Day today, reflecting on its exceptional journey from its humble inception in 1977 to evolving into a formidable maritime security force. The ceremony, held in New Delhi, highlighted the ICG’s achievements and unwavering commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
Boasting an impressive arsenal of 152 ships and 78 aircraft, the ICG is steadily progressing towards achieving its targeted force levels of 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft by 2030. Under the motto “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), the ICG has become synonymous with safety, having rescued over 11,554 lives since its establishment, including 200 lives in the year 2023 alone.
Maintaining a vigilant 24×7 presence in the Maritime Zones of India, the ICG deploys 50 to 60 ships and 10 to 12 aircraft daily, contributing significantly to the nation’s goal of ensuring free and secure seas for sustainable progress in the blue economy and safe maritime transportation.
In response to evolving challenges in maritime security, the ICG has substantially reinforced Maritime Law Enforcement efforts, resulting in the seizure of weapons, contraband, and narcotics worth Rs 15,343 crore since its inception, with Rs 478 crore seized in 2023 alone. Collaborative actions have created an effective deterrence against smugglers, making penetration nearly impossible.
Pioneering the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’ missions, the ICG has inducted numerous indigenous ships, aircraft, and equipment. With 21 ships under construction, including Pollution Control Vessels (PCVs), and ongoing procurement of aircraft, the ICG continues to enhance its operational capabilities.
The ICG is set to further augment its operational capabilities through the procurement of eight Dornier aircraft and six Multi-Mission Maritime Surveillance aircraft. The majority of the Coast Guard’s assets are domestically manufactured, with approximately 90% of the capital budget allocated to indigenous assets.
In a strategic move towards a ‘Digital Armed Force,’ the Ministry of Defence and TCIL have entered into a transformative agreement for the Digital Coast Guard (DCG) mission, aligning with the government’s vision for a paperless office.
On the marine environmental front, the ICG, as the Central Coordinating Authority for Oil Spill response in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), ensured no major oil spill incidents in Indian waters in the past year. The ‘Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar,’ and ‘Puneet Sagar Abhiyan’ campaigns, aligning with the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on cleanliness, garnered mass participation of volunteers.
The creation of 195 additional posts sanctioned by the Government of India in the last year underscores the commitment to bolstering the ICG’s capabilities as a credible, reliable, and omnipresent maritime force. The President, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Raksha Mantri have extended their heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the Indian Coast Guard, acknowledging its remarkable role in advancing the nation’s interests in the Maritime Zones.
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