The three-day conference (September 28–30) gathers senior leadership to discuss priorities, with Rajnath Singh highlighting ICG’s growth to 152 vessels and 78 aircraft, covering both external and internal security
New Delhi
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday praised the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) as a true force multiplier, highlighting its critical role in addressing India’s maritime security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region. Speaking at the inaugural session of the 42nd ICG Commanders’ Conference at ICG Headquarters in Delhi, he said the force not only patrols the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to deter external threats but also tackles illegal fishing, smuggling of drugs and arms, human trafficking, marine pollution, and other irregular maritime activities.
Rajnath Singh commended the ICG’s professionalism and humanitarian efforts, emphasizing its responsibility for safeguarding India’s 7,500-km coastline and island territories. He also praised the force’s coordination with the Navy, state administrations, and other security agencies, calling this cooperation a major strength. The seamless manner in which the ICG operates with civil administration and other forces strengthens the entire national security framework, he said.
The three-day conference, held from September 28 to 30, brings together senior leadership to discuss strategic, operational, and administrative priorities. Rajnath Singh noted that the ICG has evolved from a modest fleet into a formidable force with 152 vessels and 78 aircraft, uniquely bridging external and internal security responsibilities.
The Defence Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernising the ICG, stating that nearly 90% of its capital budget is directed toward indigenously built assets. He praised progress in building, repairing, and maintaining ships and aircraft domestically, underlining that this strengthens both the ICG’s operational capacity and India’s shipbuilding sector, advancing security and self-reliance together.
This recognition underscores the ICG’s growing significance as a cornerstone of India’s maritime security and national resilience.