Defence Minister Advocates for Advanced Technological Strategies at Indian Coast Guard Commanders' Conference
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 42nd Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference at ICG Headquarters in New Delhi today, emphasizing the need for the force to develop a forward-looking strategy to address emerging maritime challenges. He encouraged the integration of advanced technology, preparedness, and adaptability in their operations.
The Defence Minister praised the professionalism and humanitarian efforts of the ICG, noting its growing global reputation. He described the force as a crucial component of national security, tasked with protecting India’s extensive 7,500-km coastline and island territories. He highlighted that the ICG has grown from a modest fleet to a formidable force comprising 152 vessels and 78 aircraft.
| Key Highlights of the Address |
|---|
| Humanitarian Role: Singh commended ICG’s disaster response and rescue operations, noting that by July this year, it had conducted 76 Search & Rescue missions, saving 74 lives, and has cumulatively rescued over 14,500 people since its inception. |
| Maritime Enforcement: The ICG has apprehended 1,638 foreign vessels, detained 13,775 foreign fishermen, and seized 6,430 kg of narcotics worth ₹37,833 crore. |
| Women Empowerment: Women officers are now serving as pilots, hovercraft operators, and air traffic controllers, indicating a shift towards inclusive leadership and operational roles. |
| Indigenisation Drive: Approximately 90% of ICG’s capital budget is now allocated to indigenous platforms, supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and strengthening India’s shipbuilding sector. |
| Evolving Threats: Singh emphasized the need to counter modern challenges like drones, GPS spoofing, encrypted communications, cyber warfare, and dark web-enabled networks with AI-enabled surveillance and automated response systems. |
| Geopolitical Awareness: He highlighted how instability in neighboring countries such as Myanmar and Bangladesh directly impacts India’s maritime security. |
Rajnath Singh remarked, “Warfare is now measured in hours and seconds, with satellites, drones, and sensors redefining conflict. Preparedness, adaptability, and rapid response must be the cornerstones of the ICG’s vision.” He urged the force to incorporate emerging technologies and enhance coordination with the Navy, civil administration, and other agencies.
The Minister also linked maritime security with economic stability, warning that disruptions to ports, shipping lanes, or energy infrastructure could have significant repercussions on national security.
Looking ahead to 2047, Rajnath Singh urged the ICG to align with India’s vision of becoming a developed nation, with maritime security and self-reliance as foundational elements. He referenced the ICG’s motto “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), framing it as a commitment to secure future generations.
The three-day conference, held from September 28 to 30, will focus on reviewing operational, logistical, and human resource priorities. These discussions will emphasize maritime domain awareness, indigenisation, and inter-agency coordination. Director General ICG Rakesh Sivamani provided an overview of recent accomplishments and strategic objectives. The event was attended by senior Ministry of Defence officials, including Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar.
