{"id":8189,"date":"2025-09-30T14:30:07","date_gmt":"2025-09-30T09:00:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/?p=8189"},"modified":"2025-09-30T14:30:07","modified_gmt":"2025-09-30T09:00:07","slug":"raksha-mantri-addresses-icg-commanders-conference-in-new-delhi-calls-for-futuristic-roadmap-technological-vigilance-and-indigenous-strengthening-of-maritime-security","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/?p=8189","title":{"rendered":"Raksha Mantri Addresses ICG Commanders\u2019 Conference in New Delhi; Calls for Futuristic Roadmap, Technological Vigilance, and Indigenous Strengthening of Maritime Security"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Raksha Mantri Addresses ICG Commanders\u2019 Conference in New Delhi; Calls for Futuristic Roadmap, Technological Vigilance, and Indigenous Strengthening of Maritime Security<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

\u201cWhile Responding to any crises, ICG has always acted swiftly to protect lives & property. The world judges India by how we act in such crises & ICG has consistently brought us honour\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWomen officers today serve as frontline warriors, being trained & deployed in various fields. This transformation reflects our vision of inclusive participation, where women contribute equally in leadership & operational capacities\u201d<\/p>\n

ICG\u2019s role in multi-agency coordination is one of its greatest strengths. It is no longer just a security provider but a true force multiplier: RM<\/p>\n

\u201cWarfare is now measured in hours & seconds, with satellites, drones, & sensors redefining the nature of conflict. Preparedness, adaptability & rapid response must be the cornerstones of the ICG\u2019s vision\u201d<\/p>\n

Since inception, ICG apprehended 1,638 foreign vessels and 13,775 foreign fishermen involved in illegal activities; Seized 6,430 kilograms of narcotics, valued at Rs. 37,833 cr<\/p>\n

ICG conducted 76 SAR missions by July this year, saving 74 lives with cumulative record of over 14,500 lives rescued<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n

Posted On: 29 SEP 2025 1:53PM by PIB Delhi<\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
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Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh addressed the inaugural session of the 42nd<\/sup>\u00a0Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders\u2019 Conference in ICG Headquarters, New Delhi on September 29, 2025, lauding the force\u2019s professionalism and humanitarian service while underlining its critical role in safeguarding India\u2019s 7,500-km-long coastline and island territories. The three-day Conference, being held from September 28 to 30, 2025, brings together the service\u2019s senior leadership to deliberate on strategic, operational, and administrative priorities in the backdrop of evolving maritime security challenges and the growing strategic significance of the Indian Ocean Region.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Raksha Mantri described ICG as a vital pillar of national security, which has transformed itself from a modest fleet at inception into a formidable force with 152 vessels & 78 aircraft. Raksha Mantri added that ICG has consistently earned the trust of citizens as well as global recognition for professionalism and humanitarian service.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Role Across Internal and External Security<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Shri Rajnath Singh underscored the ICG\u2019s unique mandate of operating at the intersection of external and internal security. He stated that while the Armed Forces focus on defending external threats and other agencies handle internal security, the ICG seamlessly straddles both spheres. \u201cBy patrolling the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the ICG not only deters external threats but also addresses illegal fishing, drug and arms trafficking, smuggling, human trafficking, marine pollution, and irregular maritime activities,\u201d he added.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Raksha Mantri praised the ICG\u2019s role in multi-agency coordination with the Navy, state administrations, and other security agencies, calling it one of its greatest strengths. \u201cThe seamless manner in which the ICG works in real time with civil administration and other forces strengthens the entire national security architecture. You are no longer just a security provider you are a true force multiplier,\u201d he highlighted.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Indigenisation and Self-Reliance<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Shri Rajnath Singh reaffirmed the government\u2019s commitment to modernising the ICG, noting that nearly 90% of its capital budget is allocated to indigenous assets. He hailed the progress made in building, repairing, and servicing ships and aircraft within India, calling it a significant milestone in Aatmanirbharta. \u201cThis has enhanced the operational strength of the ICG while boosting India\u2019s shipbuilding sector & economy due to which security and self-reliance are progressing hand in hand,\u201d he underlined.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Complexity of Maritime Borders<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Raksha Mantri contrasted land and maritime borders, noting that while land boundaries are permanent, clearly marked & relatively predictable, maritime borders are fluid and constantly shifting due to tides, waves & weather. \u201cA smuggling vessel may look like a fishing boat, a terrorist group may exploit the openness of the sea, and threats may emerge invisibly. Maritime security is far more complex & unpredictable than land borders and demands constant vigilance,\u201d he stressed.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Shri Rajnath Singh underlined the fact that India\u2019s 7,500-km-long coastline, along with island territories such as the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep, poses enormous challenges, requiring advanced technology, well-trained personnel, and round-the-clock surveillance.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Humanitarian Role and Disaster Response<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Raksha Mantri lauded ICG\u2019s humanitarian character, highlighting its role in disaster management and rescue operations. \u201cWhether it is responding to cyclones, oil spills, industrial accidents, or foreign vessels in distress, ICG has always acted swiftly to protect lives and property. The world judges India by how we act in such crises, and the ICG has consistently brought us honour,\u201d he said.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Women Empowerment<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Shri Rajnath Singh commended the ICG\u2019s strides in women empowerment, stating that women officers today serve not only in support roles but also as frontline warriors. They are now being trained and deployed as pilots, observers, hovercraft operators, air traffic controllers, logistics officers, and law officers. \u201cThis transformation reflects our vision of inclusive participation, where women contribute equally in leadership and operational capacities,\u201d he highlighted.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Emerging Technology-Driven Challenges<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Raksha Mantri underlined that maritime threats are becoming increasingly technology-driven and multi-dimensional. \u201cWhat were once predictable patterns of smuggling or piracy have now evolved into sophisticated operations using GPS spoofing, remote-controlled boats, encrypted communications, drones, satellite phones, and even networks operating on the dark web,\u201d he stated. He also warned that terrorist organisations, exploit modern tools such as digital mapping and real-time intelligence to plan their activities.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTraditional methods are no longer sufficient, we must be ahead of criminals and adversaries by integrating Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning-based surveillance, drones, cyber defence systems, and automated response mechanisms into our maritime security framework,\u201d highlighted Shri Rajnath Singh.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Preparing for Cyber and Electronic Warfare<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Raksha Mantri cautioned that cyber and electronic warfare are no longer hypothetical threats but present-day realities. \u201cA nation may attempt to paralyse our systems not with missiles, but through hacking, cyber-attacks, and electronic jamming. ICG must continuously adapt, upgrading its training and equipment to guard against such threats. Automated surveillance networks and AI-enabled systems are essential to reduce response times to seconds and ensure readiness at all times,\u201d he said.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Regional Geopolitical Awareness<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted that instability in neighbouring countries often spills into the maritime domain. He cited frequent developments in Myanmar, Bangladesh, Nepal, and other regional nations that impact coastal security, especially in the Bay of Bengal, through refugee influx, illegal migration, and irregular maritime activities. He urged the ICG to maintain not just routine surveillance but also geopolitical awareness and readiness to respond swiftly to external developments.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Maritime Security and Economic Security<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Linking maritime security directly with India\u2019s economic well-being, Raksha Mantri underscored that ports, shipping lanes, and energy infrastructure are lifelines of the nation\u2019s economy. \u201cA disruption in maritime trade whether physical or cyber can have cascading effects on security and economy alike. We must treat national security and economic security as one & the same,\u201d he stressed.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Futuristic Roadmap for 2047<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Shri Rajnath Singh urged the ICG to develop a futuristic roadmap that anticipates new challenges, integrates cutting-edge technologies, and continuously adapts strategies. He reminded the commanders that warfare is now measured in hours and seconds, not months, with satellites, drones, and sensors redefining the nature of conflict. Preparedness, adaptability, and rapid response must be the cornerstones of the ICG\u2019s vision, he added.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Raksha Mantri underscored that India\u2019s march towards becoming a developed nation by 2047 rests on the twin pillars of prosperity and security. He invoked the ICG\u2019s motto, \u2018Vayam Rakshamah\u2019 (We Protect), calling it not just a slogan but a pledge. \u201cIt is this pledge, embedded in every ICG personnel, that will ensure we hand over a strong, secure, and self-reliant India to future generations,\u201d he affirmed.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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ICG Commanders Conference 2025<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The Conference focuses on enhancing inter-service coordination, strengthening maritime domain awareness, and ensuring that future capabilities align with India\u2019s national maritime priorities. Distinguished participants, including the Chief of the Naval Staff and the Engineer-in-Chief, will engage in discussions covering operational performance, logistics, human resource development, training, and administration, with a strategic emphasis on bolstering India\u2019s maritime presence.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Director General ICG Paramesh Sivamani inaugurated the Conference, presenting an overview of recent achievements, operational challenges, and the strategic vision for the service. A strong focus on indigenisation and self-reliance was emphasised, with the ICG\u2019s growing reliance on indigenous platforms and technologies reflecting the Government\u2019s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Indian Coast Guard<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Since its establishment, ICG has apprehended 1,638 foreign vessels and 13,775 foreign fishermen involved in illegal activities within Indian waters. It has also seized 6,430 kilograms of narcotics, valued at Rs. 37,833 crore, highlighting its increasing effectiveness in combating transnational maritime crime. The ICG\u2019s dedication to Search and Rescue (SAR) operations has been notable, with 76 missions conducted by July this year, saving 74 lives, and a cumulative record of over 14,500 lives rescued in disaster response operations. The ICG has also demonstrated operational readiness and environmental protection capabilities during critical incidents, including the MV Wan Hai 503 fire and the sinking of MV MSC ELSA-3 off the Kerala Coast.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Defence Secretary Shri. Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar and senior officials from MoD & ICG were also present on the occasion.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Raksha Mantri Addresses ICG Commanders\u2019 Conference in New Delhi; Calls for Futuristic Roadmap, Technological Vigilance, and Indigenous Strengthening of Maritime Security \u201cWhile Responding to any crises, ICG has always acted swiftly to protect lives & property. The world judges India by how we act in such crises & ICG has consistently brought us honour\u201d \u201cWomen …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8189","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-education-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8189","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=8189"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8189\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8191,"href":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8189\/revisions\/8191"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=8189"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=8189"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=8189"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}