ICG Commanders’ Conference

New Delhi, Sep 29: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday lauded the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) as a “vital pillar of national security,” urging it to prepare a futuristic roadmap that integrates advanced technologies, adapts to evolving threats, and strengthens India’s maritime security architecture.

Speaking at the ICG Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi, Singh noted that the force had grown from “a modest fleet at inception into a formidable organisation” with 152 vessels and 78 aircraft. He said the ICG had earned citizens’ trust and global recognition through professionalism and humanitarian service.

Highlighting the ICG’s unique command Rajnath Singh said, “While the Armed Forces defend against external threats and other agencies handle internal security, the Coast Guard seamlessly straddles both.” By patrolling the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), it not only deters intrusions but also combats smuggling, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, human trafficking, marine pollution, and irregular maritime activities, he added. Calling the ICG a “true force multiplier,” Rajnath Singh praised its ability to work in real time with civil administration, the Navy, and other security agencies. Reaffirming the government’s focus on self-reliance, the Defence Minister said nearly 90% of the ICG’s capital budget was allocated to indigenous assets. “This has enhanced operational strength while boosting the shipbuilding sector and the economy. Security and self-reliance are progressing hand in hand,” he stressed.

CHALLENGES

Contrasting land and sea borders, Rajnath Singh noted that maritime security is “far more complex and unpredictable,” with threats ranging from disguised smuggling vessels to terror groups exploiting open seas. India’s 7,500-km-long coastline and island territories required round-the-clock vigilance, advanced technology, and skilled personnel, he said. He also warned that modern maritime crime is increasingly technology-driven. “What were once predictable patterns of smuggling or piracy have now evolved into sophisticated operations using GPS spoofing, drones, encrypted communications, and dark web networks,” Rajnath Singh said, urging the ICG to adopt AI, machine learning, and cyber defence systems. Cyber and electronic warfare were now “present-day realities,” he cautioned. “A nation may attempt to paralyse our systems not with missiles, but through hacking and electronic jamming.” The Defence Minister praised the ICG’s role in disaster response, citing swift actions during cyclones, oil spills, and maritime accidents. He also commended its strides in women’s participation, with women officers now serving as pilots, observers, hovercraft operators, and air traffic controllers.

Rajnath Singh stressed that ports, shipping lanes, and energy infrastructure were the lifelines of India’s economy. “A disruption in maritime trade, whether physical or cyber, can have cascading effects. We must treat national and economic security as one and the same,” he said.

VISION FOR 2047

Calling on the ICG to anticipate future challenges, Rajnath Singh said warfare was now measured in hours and seconds, with satellites and drones redefining conflict. “Preparedness, adaptability, and rapid response must be your cornerstones. Our march towards a developed India by 2047 rests on prosperity and security alike,” he underlined. The Defence Minister invoked the ICG motto, Vayam Rakshamah (“We Protect”), calling it not just a slogan but a pledge to secure future generations.

The three-day ICG Commanders’ Conference will review operational performance, logistics, HR development, and inter-agency coordination. Director General ICG Rakesh Sivamani presented an overview of achievements and challenges, emphasising indigenisation in line with Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Rajnath Since its inception, the ICG has apprehended 1638 foreign vessels, seized narcotics worth nearly Rs 38,000 crore, and rescued over 14,500 lives during search and rescue missions. In 2025 alone, it has conducted 76 rescue operations, saving 74 lives. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar, and senior officials of the Ministry of Defence and ICG attended the conference.