New Delhi: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 41st edition of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi today. The three-day conference serves as a critical platform for ICG Commanders to discuss strategic, operational, and administrative issues, particularly in the face of evolving maritime security challenges and the shifting geopolitical landscape.
Addressing senior commanders at the Coast Guard Headquarters, Rajnath Singh commended the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering vigilance in safeguarding India’s vast coastline and preventing illegal activities such as terrorism, arms trafficking, and drug smuggling. He paid tribute to the ICG personnel who lost their lives during a recent operation near Porbandar, highlighting their bravery and commitment.
Singh emphasized the Coast Guard’s swift response in protecting the country from internal disasters, citing their crucial role in averting an ecological crisis after an oil spill near Chennai following Cyclone Michaung. “The contribution of the Indian Coast Guard in managing internal disasters is unparalleled,” he said.
In his address, the Raksha Mantri outlined his vision to transform the ICG into one of the world’s most technologically advanced coast guards. He stressed the importance of integrating cutting-edge technology to address both conventional and emerging threats. “The world is in the midst of a technological revolution, with advances in artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and drones reshaping security,” he said. “In the future, maritime threats will only increase, and we must be prepared. While human expertise will remain critical, we should be known as a technology-oriented Coast Guard.”
While underscoring the potential of new technology, Singh also warned about its risks, calling technology a “double-edged sword” and urging commanders to remain vigilant and proactive in mitigating its downsides.
The Raksha Mantri reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernizing the ICG, noting that 31 new ships, worth over Rs 4,000 crore, are being built by Indian shipyards as part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. He also highlighted the Defence Acquisition Council’s recent approvals for enhancing ICG capabilities through the procurement of Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft, Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels, and other advanced platforms.
Singh paid tribute to late ICG Director General Rakesh Pal, who recently passed away, calling him a capable and kind-hearted officer whose loss is deeply felt.
The conference will also feature interactions between ICG Commanders, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Chief of Naval Staff, fostering collaboration across the full spectrum of maritime security. Discussions will focus on operational initiatives, HR development, logistics, and infrastructure growth, aligning with the government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and the ‘Make in India’ campaign.