The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) celebrated its 48th Raising Day on February 1, 2024, in New Delhi, marking its journey from its establishment in 1977 to becoming a significant maritime security force. The ICG boasts 152 ships and 78 aircraft, aiming to reach 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft by 2030.
Commitment to Safety
Operating under the motto “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), the ICG has saved over 11,554 lives since its inception, including 200 lives in 2023. This commitment to safety and security has elevated the ICG’s status as one of the globally recognized Coast Guards.
Maritime Surveillance and Contribution
The ICG maintains a 24×7 vigil in the Maritime Zones of India, deploying 50 to 60 ships and 10 to 12 aircraft daily. This contributes significantly to the nation’s goal of ensuring free and secure seas for sustainable progress in the blue economy and safe maritime transportation.
Maritime Law Enforcement and Deterrence
In response to evolving maritime security challenges, the ICG has strengthened Maritime Law Enforcement, leading to the seizure of weapons, contraband, and narcotics worth Rs 15,343 crore since its inception. In 2023 alone, Rs 478 crore worth of illicit items were seized, creating an effective deterrence against smugglers.
Indigenous Initiatives
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 and ongoing aircraft procurement, the ICG continually enhances its operational capabilities.
Modernization Efforts
The ICG is improving operational capabilities through the procurement of eight Dornier aircraft and six Multi-Mission Maritime Surveillance aircraft. Six Dornier aircraft have been upgraded with modern systems/sensors as part of the 17 ICG Dornier Mid-Life Upgrade contract with M/s HAL, Kanpur.
Digital Transformation
In a 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.
Environmental Stewardship
As the Central Coordinating Authority for Oil Spill response in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the ICG has ensured no major oil spill incidents in Indian waters in the past year. Campaigns like ‘Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar,’ and ‘Puneet Sagar Abhiyan’ align with the Prime Minister’s vision on cleanliness.
Strengthening Capabilities
The Government of India sanctioned the creation of 195 posts in the last year, demonstrating a commitment to bolstering the ICG’s capabilities. The President, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Raksha Mantri have extended their greetings and congratulations to the Indian Coast Guard, acknowledging its remarkable role in advancing the nation’s interests in the Maritime Zones.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
- What is the motto of the Indian Coast Guard?
- A) We Serve
- B) Vayam Rakshamah
- C) Protect and Secure
- D) Maritime Guardians
- How many lives has the ICG saved since its inception?
- A) 5,000 lives
- B) 10,000 lives
- C) 11,554 lives
- D) 15,000 lives
- What is the ICG’s goal for the number of surface platforms by 2030?
- A) 150
- B) 180
- C) 200
- D) 250
- What campaign aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision on cleanliness?
- A) Clean Seas Initiative
- B) Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar
- C) Green Coast Project
- D) Ocean Purity Mission
- How much worth of weapons and contraband did the ICG seize in 2023 alone?
- A) Rs 100 crore
- B) Rs 250 crore
- C) Rs 478 crore
- D) Rs 600 crore