ICG celebrates 48th Raising Day

With 152 ships and 78 aircraft in its arsenal, the ICG is on track to achieve its targeted force levels of 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft by 2030.

Indian Coast Guard

New Delhi: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) celebrated its 48th Raising Day on February 1, 2024, in New Delhi, commemorating its remarkable journey from a modest beginning in 1977 to becoming a formidable force in maritime security. With 152 ships and 78 aircraft in its arsenal, the ICG is on track to achieve its targeted force levels of 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft by 2030.

Under the motto “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), the ICG has saved over 11,554 lives since its inception, including 200 lives in the year 2023. This commitment to safety and security has positioned ICG as one of the renowned Coast Guards globally.

Maintaining a 24x7 vigil in the Maritime Zones of India, the ICG deploys 50 to 60 ships and 10 to 12 aircraft daily, contributing to the nation’s goal of ensuring free and secure seas for sustainable progress in the blue economy and safe maritime transportation.

In response to the evolving challenges in maritime security, the ICG has significantly strengthened Maritime Law Enforcement, resulting in the seizure of weapons, contraband, and narcotics worth Rs 15,343 crore since its inception, with Rs 478 crore seized in 2023 alone. Collaborative actions have created an effective deterrence against smugglers, making penetration nearly impossible.

The ICG is enhancing the operational capabilities through the procurement of eight Dornier aircraft and six Multi-Mission Maritime Surveillance aircraft. Six Dornier aircraft have been upgraded with state-of-the-art systems/sensors for the modernization of ICG aircraft as part of the 17 ICG Dornier Mid-Life Upgrade contract with M/s HAL, Kanpur. It is noteworthy that the majority of the Coast Guard’s assets are domestically manufactured, with approximately 90% of the capital budget allocated to indigenous assets.

Sanction for the creation of 195 posts by the Government of India in the last year demonstrates the commitment to bolstering the ICG’s capabilities as a credible, reliable, and omnipresent maritime force. The President, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Defence Minister have extended their greetings and congratulations to the Indian Coast Guard, recognizing its remarkable role in advancing the nation’s interests in the Maritime Zones.

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