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Rajnath Singh Inaugurates 41st Indian Coast Guard Commanders’ Conference, Emphasizes Technological Advancement

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 41st Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference today in New Delhi. The three-day conference serves as a crucial platform for ICG Commanders to engage in discussions on strategic, operational, and administrative matters against the backdrop of evolving geopolitical landscapes and maritime security challenges.

Addressing the gathering at the Coast Guard Headquarters, Rajnath Singh hailed the ICG as India’s premier guardian of its extensive coastline, highlighting its critical role in monitoring the Exclusive Economic Zone and preventing illegal activities such as terrorism and trafficking. He paid tribute to the brave personnel who have served the nation with dedication, particularly honoring those who lost their lives in a recent operation near Porbandar.

The Raksha Mantri acknowledged the ICG’s significant contributions to disaster response, citing its prompt action during an oil spill off Chennai following Cyclone Michaung, which helped avert ecological damage. He expressed his vision for transforming the ICG into a more technologically oriented force to tackle both conventional and emerging threats in an unpredictable world.

“Today, the importance of technology is paramount. In an era marked by advancements like Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Technology, we must adapt and evolve. While manpower remains crucial, our identity should reflect a technology-driven Coast Guard,” stated Rajnath Singh.

He urged ICG Commanders to remain vigilant about the potential downsides of technology, emphasizing that it can be a double-edged sword. The Raksha Mantri reiterated the government’s commitment to modernizing the Armed Forces and ICG through indigenous platforms, noting that 31 ships valued at over Rs 4,000 crore are currently being built by Indian shipyards. He also highlighted recent approvals from the Defence Acquisition Council aimed at enhancing ICG capabilities, including the procurement of Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft and Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels.

During the conference, ICG Commanders will interact with senior military leaders, including the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of the Naval Staff. Discussions will focus on fostering collaboration among services and advancing ICG’s infrastructure and operational capabilities.

The conference will also evaluate key operational initiatives and assess ongoing projects aligned with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, supporting the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.

Rajnath Singh paid homage to late ICG DG Rakesh Pal, who recently passed away, describing him as a dedicated officer whose loss is deeply felt.

The conference represents a significant step toward strengthening India’s maritime security framework, promoting indigenization, and enhancing the operational readiness of the Indian Coast Guard.

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