The 43rd edition of Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference commenced in New Delhi from September 17. On the opening day of the three-day conference, state defence minister Sanjay Seth interacted with DG ICG Director General Paramesh Sivamani and Coast Guard Commanders on pivotal issues concerning national and maritime security. In his address, he commended ICG for safeguarding maritime interests by ensuring coastal security and being the first responder in times of distress at sea, saving precious lives irrespective of the nationality. He called upon ICG to remain prepared for emerging maritime security challenges by keeping pace with rapid technological advancements.

Highlighting that the character of warfare and security challenges are changing rapidly, Seth stressed the growing importance of networks, sensors, software, data, Artificial Intelligence, autonomous systems, cyber capabilities and space-based technologies. Stressing upon the need to harness emerging technologies to enhance operational effectiveness, he called for ICG to not only remain a user but also become a co-creator by working closely with start-ups, industry, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and research institutions.

“Aatmanirbharta is not merely about buying Indian; it is about developing solutions for Indian challenges and creating capabilities that can meet global requirements. This embodies our vision of ‘Make in India, Make of World’,” added Seth.

The minister highlighted the ICG’s crucial role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations that contribute to the safety and well-being of people at sea. He stated that the capabilities developed for maritime security also play an important role in search and rescue, medical evacuation, disaster response and pollution control.

Seth underscored the importance of strengthening India’s maritime capabilities across the spectrum, from the littoral and green waters to the open oceans and blue waters, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of MAHASAGAR. He stressed the need for advanced platforms, underwater technologies, unmanned systems, long-endurance surveillance capabilities, satellite-enabled maritime domain awareness and secure communications. “As India’s maritime responsibilities expand, our capabilities must expand with them, from our coasts to the wider maritime domain,” he said.

During the conference, the ICG Commanders also interacted with Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, fostering inter-service collaboration across the full spectrum of maritime security. The discussions further promoted the growth, capability development, and infrastructure expansion of ICG.

The deliberations at the conference provide a distinguished platform for ICG Commanders to comprehensively review operational preparedness, material and logistical support, HR development, training, and administrative initiatives undertaken over the past year. It helps them to identify vital milestones essential for safeguarding maritime interests, against the backdrop of evolving geopolitical dynamics and complexities of maritime security. Over the course of the conference, the Commanders assessed ongoing projects aimed at strengthening indigenisation through ‘Make in India’ initiative, in alignment with the government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.