Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh honored the brave personnel of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) for their outstanding service. At the 18th ICG Investiture Ceremony in Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, 32 medals were given for 2022, 2023 and 2024, recognizing their dedication and hard work in protecting India’s coastal borders.
The awards included six President’s Tatrakshak Medals for Distinguished Service, 11 Tatrakshak Medals for Gallantry, and 15 Tatrakshak Medals for Meritorious Service. Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated the recipients, calling the medals a symbol of courage and commitment. He praised their efforts in keeping the coast secure, stopping illegal activities, and participating in rescue operations and global maritime efforts.
In his speech, the Defence Minister highlighted the vital role of the ICG in protecting India’s long coastline. He said the country faces threats like piracy, terrorism, smuggling, and illegal fishing, apart from traditional warfare. He appreciated the ICG’s quick action in handling these dangers and ensuring national security.
In the past year, the ICG has made significant achievements. It seized 14 boats, arrested 115 pirates, and conducted a major drug bust worth Rs 37,000 crore. The force also saved 169 lives in rescue missions and provided medical help to 29 seriously injured people. Shri Rajnath Singh called these achievements proof of the ICG’s dedication to safety and security.
The Defence Minister also warned about growing cyber threats and demanded the ICG to stay alert against cyberattacks, data leaks, signal disruptions, radar jamming, and GPS spoofing. To maintain the force, he announced a 26.50% budget increase for the ICG for 2025-26, raising the allocation to Rs 9,676.70 crore. This will help modernize the ICG with 14 Fast Patrol Vessels, six Air Cushion Vehicles, 22 Interceptor Boats, six Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels, and 18 Next-Generation Fast Patrol Vessels.
Shri Rajnath Singh also praised the ICG’s focus on technology, including the new Digital Coast Guard project. He assured continued government support to strengthen the ICG against both traditional and new threats.
Before the ceremony, the Defence Minister inspected a Ceremonial Guard of Honour. The event ended with a warm interaction between the awardees, their families, and senior officials, including Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, and ICG Director General Paramesh Sivamani. (PR)