India must prioritise marine security because it is a maritime nation-state. India’s 7516 kilometres of coastline gives it something to be concerned about in terms of maritime safety and security. India uses the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) to protect its waterways as it faces a variety of conventional and unconventional security challenges. According to official claims, the Indian Coast Guard is a “multi-mission, year-round” institution entrusted with continuously patrolling India’s extensive coastline. The ICG is led by a Director-General, and New Delhi serves as its base of operations. For efficient command and control, the Coast Guard has divided the country into five regions. As a maritime law enforcement organisation, the ICG is interested in criminal activity at sea, including smuggling of people, drug trafficking, possible terrorism, and other types of maritime crime. The ICG is made up of 15,714 members, 175 active vessels, and 44 aircraft. The Coast Guard Act of 1978 led to the creation of the ICG. It was created and put into operation on February 1st, 1977. The ICG was given legal status as an armed force of the Union of India and had its actions made official by the Act.
INDIAN COAST GUARD’S PURPOSE
As it is a body concerned with everything related to coastal waters, the ICG is crucial to India’s entire coastal security. Additionally, it is now responsible for safeguarding India’s blue economy, which has grown to become the nation’s main source of growth. The ICG is the top-notch force that protects the nation’s coastlines and also participates in disaster response and humanitarian aid (HADR). The Indian Coast Guard is responsible for a variety of tasks, including the protection of fishermen in distress at sea and the safety of offshore facilities, installations, and other structures. Regarding legal obligations, the ICG is in charge of upholding the Maritime Zones of India Act 1981, which regulates the fishing by foreign vessels. The ICG also aids in anti-smuggling operations with customs and other authorities. Their motto being “ Vayam Rakshamah” the Indian coast gaurd pledges to protect and also take care of the welfare of every other thing present in our territory.The Indian Coast Guard is a vital agency that plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, security and stability of India’s maritime domain. It performs a range of functions, including maritime safety and security, search and rescue operations, maritime law enforcement, environmental protection, and national security. The Indian Coast Guard is equipped with advanced technology and well-trained personnel to carry out its tasks effectively. The agency is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of India’s maritime environment and to protect the country’s vital interests at sea. The Indian Coast Guard is an essential component of India’s maritime security architecture and plays a critical role in maintaining the safety and security of the country’s vast coastline.
