Raksha Mantri Inaugurates 40th Coast Guard Commanders’ Conference

On November 30, 2023, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 40th Coast Guard Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi, emphasizing the crucial role of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) in enhancing coastal defenses and maritime capabilities. The three-day conference aims to address contemporary maritime challenges and fortify the country’s coastal surveillance mechanisms.

Acknowledging ICG’s Contribution

Raksha Mantri commended the ICG for its dedicated and professional efforts in ensuring maritime security, particularly in search & rescue operations and pollution response. He highlighted the ICG’s longstanding commitment to the safety and security of seafarers, emphasizing its vital role since inception.

Continued Vigilance Against Contraband and Drug Trafficking

Shri Rajnath Singh stressed the importance of the ICG’s continued efforts in combating contraband and drug trafficking. Recognizing the evolving challenges in maritime security, he urged the organization to maintain its vigilance and proactivity in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.

Overview of Ongoing Development Projects

During the conference, Director General Rakesh Pal provided an overview of the ICG’s ongoing development projects, operational readiness, and future expansion plans. This comprehensive briefing aimed to give insight into the organization’s strategic vision and preparedness to meet emerging challenges.

Conference Agenda: Addressing Crucial Maritime Topics

The conference agenda encompasses a wide spectrum of crucial topics, including:

1. Enhancing maritime safety and security, focusing on search & rescue operations.
2. Strengthening pollution response capabilities for effective environmental protection.
3. Combating contraband and drug trafficking to secure coastal borders.
4. Ensuring the safety of fishermen and seafarers at sea.
5. Optimizing coastal security measures for robust defense.
6. Promoting inter-agency coordination for seamless operations.
7. Enhancing Maritime Domain Awareness for comprehensive surveillance.

Annual Forum for Strategic Discussions

This annual conference serves as a platform for senior officers from the Ministry of Defence and the ICG to discuss policy and strategic issues. It enables officers to present a roadmap for the future, addressing challenges efficiently and carving out a futuristic vision for the service.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2023

Category: Defence Current Affairs • Summits and Conferences