New Delhi
In response to recent incidents where Shri was used before Indian Coast Guard officers’ names instead of their ranks, the President’s Secretariat clarified through an RTI reply that only ranks should precede the names of Indian Coast Guard and defense officers in official communications.
A letter issued by the ceremonial section of the President’s Secretariat in May 2023 emphasized that both serving and retired officials should have only their ranks prefixed before their names, with Shri not to be used.
An RTI application confirmed that this directive applied to Indian Coast Guard officials as well. Defence officials noted that this step aims to maintain protocol for the use of titles for Indian Coast Guard Officers.
The correct usage of ranks in official communications is not just a formality; it’s crucial for preserving service traditions, mutual respect among services, and the dignity of the armed forces.
Defence officials express hope that all services will promptly rectify any discrepancies to ensure that Indian Coast Guard officers’ ranks are properly acknowledged in official communications.
It’s essential to remember that the President of India serves as the supreme commander of the country’s defense forces, which include the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Indian Coast Guard, each governed by different acts under the Defence Ministry.
