Rajnath Singh Confers Gallantry and Meritorious Service Medals at 18th Indian Coast Guard Investiture Ceremony

New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh honored the valiant personnel of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) with gallantry, distinguished service, and meritorious service medals at the 18th ICG Investiture Ceremony, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. A total of 32 medals, including six President’s Tatrakshak Medals (Distinguished Service), 11 Tatrakshak Medals (Gallantry), and 15 Tatrakshak Medals (Meritorious Service) were awarded for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Congratulating the awardees, Rajnath Singh described the medals as symbols of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to national security. He commended the ICG personnel for their role in ensuring coastal security, drug seizures, rescue operations, and international collaborations, reinforcing the force’s reputation as one of the world’s most efficient marine forces.

Highlighting India’s vast coastline and maritime security challenges, Singh emphasized the crucial role of the ICG in tackling piracy, terrorism, smuggling, illegal fishing, and infiltration. “While our Armed Forces defend the nation from conventional warfare, the Coast Guard serves as the first line of defense against unconventional threats,” he stated.

The past year saw the ICG make remarkable achievements, including apprehending 14 boats and 115 pirates, and executing a major drug seizure worth ₹37,000 crore. Additionally, the force saved 169 lives through various rescue operations and provided medical assistance to 29 critically injured individuals. Singh praised these accomplishments, noting that they reflect not just numbers, but the relentless dedication of ICG personnel to national security.

Addressing emerging threats in maritime security, Singh called upon the ICG to remain vigilant against cyberattacks, data breaches, radar disruptions, signal jamming, and GPS spoofing, in addition to traditional challenges. He asserted that a secure and prosperous India hinges on a robust defense system, reiterating the government’s commitment to strengthening the ICG.

For the financial year 2025-26, the government has allocated ₹9,676.70 crore to the ICG, marking a 26.50% increase from the previous budget. Singh also announced the procurement of 14 Fast Patrol Vessels, six Air Cushion Vehicles, 22 Interceptor Boats, six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels, and 18 Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels to modernize and enhance operational efficiency. He lauded the Coast Guard’s Digital Coast Guard initiative, underscoring its importance in fortifying India’s maritime security.

Prior to the ceremony, Singh inspected a ceremonial guard of honor, adding solemnity to the occasion. The event concluded with an interactive session between the awardees, their families, and senior officials, including Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and ICG Director General Paramesh Sivamani. The investiture ceremony reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for the ICG and its mission to safeguard India’s maritime frontiers.