New Delhi: The 43rd Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference began in New Delhi on Thursday, bringing senior Coast Guard leadership together to review operational preparedness and discuss emerging challenges in the maritime domain.
On the opening day, Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth interacted with ICG Director General Paramesh Sivamani and Coast Guard commanders, calling for greater use of emerging technologies to strengthen maritime security and operational capabilities.
AI, Autonomous Systems and Space Tech in Focus
Seth highlighted the changing nature of warfare and security challenges, pointing to the growing role of technology in maritime operations.
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He called for greater use of:
- Artificial Intelligence and data technologies
- Autonomous and unmanned systems
- Advanced sensors and software
- Cyber capabilities
- Space-based technologies
- Satellite-enabled maritime domain awareness
- Secure communications
He also urged the ICG to work with start-ups, industry, DRDO and research institutions to develop technologies for operational requirements.
‘Make in India’ Push for Coast Guard Capabilities
The Raksha Rajya Mantri stressed that indigenisation should focus on developing solutions for Indian security requirements while building capabilities that can meet global standards.
“Aatmanirbharta is not merely about buying Indian; it is about developing solutions for Indian challenges and creating capabilities that can meet global requirements.”
The conference will also review projects aimed at strengthening indigenous capabilities under the Make in India initiative.
From Coastal Waters to Open Oceans
Seth emphasised the need to strengthen maritime capabilities across the entire spectrum, from coastal and littoral waters to the open ocean.
The areas highlighted include:
- Advanced maritime platforms
- Underwater technologies
- Unmanned systems
- Long-endurance surveillance
- Satellite-enabled maritime monitoring
- Secure communication systems
The government said these capabilities are important as India’s maritime responsibilities expand beyond its immediate coastline.
ICG’s Role in Search, Rescue and Disaster Response
The Coast Guard’s role extends beyond maritime security to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
Its capabilities also support:
- Search and rescue
- Medical evacuation
- Disaster response
- Marine pollution control
Seth highlighted the ICG’s role as a first responder during distress at sea and its contribution to saving lives irrespective of nationality.
Three-Day Conference to Review Operational Readiness
The three-day conference, which began on September 17, will review the ICG’s operational preparedness, logistics, training, human resources and administrative initiatives.
ICG commanders will also interact with Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan to strengthen coordination between the armed forces on maritime security.
The deliberations will also examine ongoing projects, infrastructure expansion and measures to strengthen the Coast Guard’s capabilities against evolving maritime-security challenges.
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