NE NEWS SERVICE
CHENNAI, FEB 1
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is celebrating the 49th Raising Day on Saturda. Now it is poised to achieve its target force levels of 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft by 2030, to strengthening its position as one of the world’s premier services.
In a statement issued by the ICG on Friday, it has said that contraband worth ₹ 52,560.96 crores have been seized in a single year, including the recent record seizure of 6,016 kg of narcotics in a single catch in the the Andaman Sea by it.
Watch | Excerpts of DG Paramesh Sivamani, Director General, @IndiaCoastGuard's message on its 49th #RaisingDay today.@rajnathsingh @DefenceMinIndia @SethSanjayMP @HQ_IDS_India @PIB_India pic.twitter.com/tIvesiEDyj
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) February 1, 2025
With just seven surface platforms at the time of its inception in 1977, the ICG had grown into a formidable force, now comprising 151 ships and 76 aircraft.
- Contraband worth ₹ 52,560.96 crores have been seized in a single year
- The service has saved over 11,730 lives, including 169 in the past year alone
- ICG maintains round-the-clock vigilance, deploying 55 to 60 surface platforms and 10 to 12 aircraft every day to monitor and protect India’s vast maritime domain
On the occasion of the 49th #RaisingDay of the @IndiaCoastGuard, Director General Paramesh Sivamani laid a wreath at the #NationalWarMemorial, New Delhi, honouring the brave hearts who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. pic.twitter.com/RH1rzxGZ3S
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) February 1, 2025
With its motto “Vayam Rakshamah”, (We Protect), the ICG has consistently ensured the safety and security of India’s maritime zones. Since its inception, the service has saved over 11,730 lives, including 169 in the past year alone, translating to the extraordinary achievement of saving one life every second day. This unwavering commitment highlights ICG’s vital role in safeguarding seafarers, fishermen and vessels across the vast 4.6 million sq-km of Indian Search and Rescue Region.
ICG maintains round-the-clock vigilance, deploying 55 to 60 surface platforms and 10 to 12 aircraft every day to monitor and protect India’s vast maritime domain. This persistent presence ensures secure sea lanes for maritime transportation and supports sustainable progress in India’s blue economy.
In addition to the search and rescue operations, the ICG has played a pivotal role in preventing and combating illegal activities at sea. The ICG’s disaster response capabilities are a testament to its strength and resolve, with notable operations such as the rescue during Cyclone Asna in Gujarat and the flood rescue and relief in Gujarat and Wayanad, besides coordinating the complex night-time medical evacuation operations multiple times.
The ICG’s proactive approach extends to marine environment protection, as the designated authority for oil spill response in the Indian waters. The ICG has also led key national exercises, including the National Pollution Response Exercise and a series of Regional and state level exercises, further enhancing its preparedness.
In line with the Government of India’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the ICG organized the International Coastal Cleanup Day 2024 on 21st September, mobilizing efforts across the coastal states and Union Territories to promote cleanliness and environmental stewardship.
The ICG’s commitment to self-reliance and modernization is evident through its continued embrace of indigenous capabilities. Under the Make in India initiative, contracts have been signed for state-of-the-art air cushion vehicles (ACVs), advanced communication systems, new generation patrol vessels and helicopters. Approvals have been granted for the procurement of Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft, Dorniers and additional helicopters, enhancing the ICG’s ability to respond to emerging maritime threats.
ICG has partnered with leading Indian manufacturers for indigenous shipbuilding, ensuring the use of the highest quality materials for maritime safety and security. Additionally, as part of its infrastructure development, more than 1000 meters of jetties are under construction.
Embracing technological advancements, the ICG has launched the Automation of Service Healthcare Administration (ASHA) app to streamline medical examinations and e-health records for its personnel. The foundation stone has also been laid for a Tier-III Data Centre as part of its Digital Coast Guard initiative, enhancing its technological infrastructure.
The establishment of new facilities such as the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Chennai and the Coast Guard Air Enclave in Puducherry further strengthens ICG’s response capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region.
The personnel of ICG remain its most invaluable asset, consistently displaying courage, dedication and pride in their services. Their resilience forms the backbone of the ICG’s operational success, ensuring continuous maritime security and protection for the nation.
On the occasion of the 49th Raising Day, the President, Vice President, Prime Minister and Defence Minister have extended their heartfelt congratulations to the Indian Coast Guard, recognizing its remarkable achievements and the significant role it plays in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
PM lauds Indian Coast Guard on their Raising Day for Exemplary Service
Prime Minister @narendramodi lauds Indian Coast Guard on their Raising Day for Exemplary Service
Read here: https://t.co/cY8MmlePqp @PMOIndia @IndiaCoastGuard
— PIB India (@PIB_India) February 1, 2025
On the occasion of Indian Coast Guard’s Raising Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the force for its bravery, dedication, and relentless vigilance in protecting our vast coastline.
Modi said that from maritime security to disaster response, from anti-smuggling operations to environmental protection, the Indian Coast Guard is a formidable guardian of our seas, ensuring the safety of our waters and people.
The Prime Minister posted on X;
“Today, on their Raising Day, we laud the Indian Coast Guard for safeguarding our vast coastline with bravery, dedication and relentless vigilance. From maritime security to disaster response, from anti-smuggling operations to environmental protection, the Indian Coast Guard is a formidable guardian of our seas, ensuring the safety of our waters and people. @IndiaCoastGuard”
