Indian Coast Guard celebrates 49th raising day

Indian Coast Guard celebrates 49th raising day

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Indian Coast Guard celebrates 49th raising day

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is celebrating its 49th Raising Day on February 1, 2025. This day commemorates the establishment of the ICG, formally established on February 1, 1977, under the Coast Guard Act of 1978.

The day serves to honour the dedication and contributions of the Coast Guard personnel in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.

The Indian Coast Guard plays a crucial role in ensuring maritime safety and security along India’s extensive coastline, which spans over 7,516 kilometres.

It is responsible for a variety of tasks including search and rescue operations, enforcing maritime law, and protecting the marine environment.

Since its inception, the ICG has evolved significantly from its initial fleet of just seven surface platforms to a robust force comprising 151 ships and 76 aircraft as of early 2025.

The organization is expected to further enhance its capabilities, aiming for a target of 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft by 2030. This goal marks a significant enhancement in India’s maritime security capabilities, reinforcing the ICG’s position as one of the leading coast guard services globally.

The ICG maintains a vigilant presence, deploying between 55 to 60 surface platforms and 10 to 12 aircraft daily to monitor and protect India’s extensive maritime domain, which covers approximately 4.6 million square kilometers.

The motto of the ICG, “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), encapsulates its commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime zones and ensuring the safety of seafarers and fishermen.

On this special day, various events are planned across different regions where the Coast Guard operates. These celebrations typically include:Parades and demonstrations showcasing the capabilities of the Coast Guard.

Recognition ceremonies for personnel who have displayed exceptional service and bravery.Community outreach programs to educate the public about maritime safety and the role of the Coast Guard in national security.

As the ICG approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027, it continues to adapt to emerging challenges in maritime security. This includes enhancing its technological infrastructure and expanding its operational capabilities through indigenous initiatives under the “Make in India” program.

The upcoming Raising Day is not only a celebration of past achievements but also an opportunity to reflect on future goals as the Indian Coast Guard remains a vital component of India’s national security framework.

The ICG has successfully conducted numerous search and rescue operations, saving over 11,730 lives since its establishment, including 169 lives in the past year alone, which averages out to saving one life every two days.

In addition to rescue operations, the ICG has played a crucial role in maritime law enforcement, seizing contraband worth over ₹52,560 crores, including significant narcotics seizures.

The ICG is actively pursuing modernization through indigenous capabilities under initiatives like “Make in India,” which includes contracts for advanced vessels and aircraft.

New facilities such as the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Chennai are being established to enhance operational response capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region.

As it prepares to celebrate its 49th Raising Day on February 1, 2025, the Indian Coast Guard is not only expanding its fleet but also enhancing its operational capabilities and commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime interests.

This strategic growth is vital for ensuring secure sea lanes and supporting sustainable development within India’s blue economy.