New Delhi: Raksha Rajya Mantri (RRM) Sanjay Seth inaugurated the Multinational Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX-2026) on October 7, 2026, ahead of the main exercise scheduled to be conducted off Paradip on October 8.
The multinational exercise will witness the participation and observation of 32 delegates from 30 foreign friendly nations. SAREX-2026 aims to strengthen maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) preparedness, improve international interoperability and enhance coordination among agencies involved in maritime safety.
RRM Sanjay Seth Highlights Whole-of-Government Approach
Addressing the gathering, Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth welcomed representatives from international organisations and friendly foreign countries and appreciated their participation in strengthening cooperation and maritime safety across the region.
He highlighted that the participation of the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Indian Air Force, Coastal Police, ports, civil agencies, shipping community and international and regional partners reflects the need for a Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Nation approach to modern maritime security.
Seth said maritime Search and Rescue is not the responsibility of any single agency and requires coordinated efforts from multiple stakeholders to ensure effective and timely response during emergencies at sea.
India Strengthens Satellite-Aided Search and Rescue Capabilities
The Raksha Rajya Mantri highlighted India’s continued efforts to strengthen its Search and Rescue capabilities through international cooperation, preparedness and technological advancement.
He noted that India’s satellite-aided Search and Rescue capabilities have progressively evolved from Low Earth Orbit Search and Rescue (LEOSAR) to Geostationary Search and Rescue (GEOSAR) and now towards Medium Earth Orbit Search and Rescue (MEOSAR).
He described the achievement of full operational capability of the Indian Medium Earth Orbit Local User Terminal (MEOLUT) as a significant advancement in India’s satellite-aided Search and Rescue capabilities.
Seth congratulated ISRO and all associated teams for their contribution towards strengthening India’s national Search and Rescue capabilities.
SAREX-2026 to Test Joint Maritime Rescue Response
SAREX-2026 is a multi-agency Search and Rescue exercise designed to validate operational preparedness and test joint response mechanisms.
The exercise will focus on:
- Enhancing international interoperability
- Testing coordinated response mechanisms
- Improving inter-agency coordination
- Exchanging operational experiences and best practices
- Strengthening maritime Search and Rescue preparedness
- Ensuring timely response to emergencies at sea
The preservation of life at sea remains the paramount objective of every Search and Rescue mission.
RRM Calls for Stronger International Cooperation
Sanjay Seth called upon participating agencies and international partners to reaffirm their shared commitment to safeguarding lives at sea.
He stressed the importance of strengthening the spirit of cooperation that supports effective Search and Rescue operations across the region.
Invoking the principle of “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” he said collective efforts can contribute to building a safer, more resilient and more cooperative maritime community.
India’s SAR Capabilities to Support Viksit Bharat 2047
The Raksha Rajya Mantri said that as India moves towards the aspirations of Viksit Bharat 2047, its Search and Rescue capabilities must also evolve.
He emphasised the need for SAR systems to become faster, more accurate and more resilient.
Seth said a developed and empowered India must also emerge as a safe, resilient and technologically advanced maritime nation. He also highlighted the Indian Coast Guard’s motto, “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), in the context of India’s maritime safety and security efforts.
24th NMSAR Board Meeting Reviews Maritime SAR Preparedness
Earlier on October 7, the 24th National Maritime Search and Rescue (NMSAR) Board Meeting was convened under the chairmanship of Director General Paramesh Sivamani, DG Indian Coast Guard and Chairman, NMSAR Board.
The meeting reviewed the preparedness of maritime Search and Rescue operations across India’s 4.6 million sq km Indian Search & Rescue Region (ISRR).
The discussions focused on key operational areas, including:
- Technological integration
- Real-time information sharing
- Distress-alert management
- Vessel tracking
- Inter-agency coordination
These deliberations provided an operational foundation for SAREX-2026 and focused on strengthening the country’s ability to respond effectively to maritime emergencies.
NMSAR Chairman Stresses Mission Readiness
During the meeting, the NMSAR Chairman underscored the importance of translating operational lessons from previous missions and multi-agency exercises into improved mission readiness.
He emphasised that lessons learned through past Search and Rescue operations should directly contribute to stronger response capabilities and greater preparedness for future emergencies.
National Maritime Search & Rescue Awards 2026 Presented
The 24th NMSAR Board Meeting also witnessed the presentation of the National Maritime Search & Rescue Awards 2026.
The awards recognised exemplary efforts in saving lives at sea, highlighting the contribution of individuals and agencies involved in maritime Search and Rescue operations.
The recognition underscores the importance of timely coordination, preparedness and effective response in protecting lives within India’s maritime Search and Rescue Region.
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