Since its establishment, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has apprehended 1,638 foreign vessels and 13,775 foreign fishermen involved in illegal activities within Indian waters. It has also seized 6,430 kilograms of narcotics, valued at ₹37,833 crore, highlighting its increasing effectiveness in combating transnational maritime crime. The ICG’s dedication to Search and Rescue (SAR) operations has been notable, with 76 missions conducted by July this year, saving 74 lives, and a cumulative record of over 14,500 lives rescued in disaster response operations. The ICG has also demonstrated operational readiness and environmental protection capabilities during critical incidents.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the inaugural session of the 42nd Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference in ICG Headquarters, New Delhi on September 29, 2025, lauding the force’s professionalism and humanitarian service while underlining its critical role in safeguarding India’s 7,500-km-long coastline and island territories. The three-day Conference, being held from September 28 to 30, 2025, brings together the service’s senior leadership to deliberate on strategic, operational, and administrative priorities in the backdrop of evolving maritime security challenges and the growing strategic significance of the Indian Ocean Region.

Defence Minister described ICG as a vital pillar of national security, which has transformed itself from a modest fleet at inception into a formidable force with 152 vessels & 78 aircraft. Defence Minister added that ICG has consistently earned the trust of citizens as well as global recognition for professionalism and humanitarian service.

Role Across Internal and External Security

Rajnath Singh underscored the ICG’s unique mandate of operating at the intersection of external and internal security. He stated that while the Armed Forces focus on defending from external threats and other agencies handle internal security, the ICG seamlessly straddles both spheres. “By patrolling the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the ICG not only deters external threats but also addresses illegal fishing, drug and arms trafficking, smuggling, human trafficking, marine pollution, and irregular maritime activities,” he added.

Defence Minister praised the ICG’s role in multi-agency coordination with the Navy, state administrations, and other security agencies, calling it one of its greatest strengths. “The seamless manner in which the ICG works in real time with civil administration and other forces strengthens the entire national security architecture. You are no longer just a security provider you are a true force multiplier,” he highlighted.

Indigenisation and Self-Reliance

Rajnath Singh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernising the ICG, noting that nearly 90 per cent of its capital budget is allocated to indigenous assets. He hailed the progress made in building, repairing, and servicing ships and aircraft within India, calling it a significant milestone in Atmanirbharta. “This has enhanced the operational strength of the ICG while boosting India’s shipbuilding sector & economy due to which security and self-reliance are progressing hand in hand,” he underlined.

Emerging Technology-Driven Challenges

Defence Minister underlined that maritime threats are becoming increasingly technology-driven and multi-dimensional. “What were once predictable patterns of smuggling or piracy have now evolved into sophisticated operations using GPS spoofing, remote-controlled boats, encrypted communications, drones, satellite phones, and even networks operating on the dark web,” he stated. He also warned that terrorist organisations, exploit modern tools such as digital mapping and real-time intelligence to plan their activities.

“Traditional methods are no longer sufficient, we must be ahead of criminals and adversaries by integrating Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning-based surveillance, drones, cyber defence systems, and automated response mechanisms into our maritime security framework,” highlighted Rajnath Singh.

Preparing for Cyber and Electronic Warfare

Defence Minister cautioned that cyber and electronic warfare are no longer hypothetical threats but present-day realities. “A nation may attempt to paralyse our systems not with missiles, but through hacking, cyber-attacks, and electronic jamming. ICG must continuously adapt, upgrading its training and equipment to guard against such threats. Automated surveillance networks and AI-enabled systems are essential to reduce response times to seconds and ensure readiness at all times,” he said.

Futuristic Roadmap for 2047

Rajnath Singh urged the ICG to develop a futuristic roadmap that anticipates new challenges, integrates cutting-edge technologies, and continuously adapts strategies. He reminded the commanders that warfare is now measured in hours and seconds, not months, with satellites, drones, and sensors redefining the nature of conflict. Preparedness, adaptability, and rapid response must be the cornerstones of the ICG’s vision, he added.

Defence Minister underscored that India’s march towards becoming a developed nation by 2047 rests on the twin pillars of prosperity and security. He invoked the ICG’s motto, ‘Vayam Rakshamah’ (We Protect), calling it not just a slogan but a pledge. “It is this pledge, embedded in every ICG personnel, that will ensure we hand over a strong, secure, and self-reliant India to future generations,” he affirmed.

ICG Commanders Conference 2025

The Conference focuses on enhancing inter-service coordination, strengthening maritime domain awareness, and ensuring that future capabilities align with India’s national maritime priorities. Distinguished participants, including the Chief of the Naval Staff and the Engineerin-Chief engaged in discussions covering operational performance, logistics, human resource development, training, and administration, with a strategic emphasis on bolstering India’s maritime presence.

Director General ICG Paramesh Sivamani inaugurated the Conference, presenting an overview of recent achievements, operational challenges, and the strategic vision for the service. A strong focus on indigenisation and self-reliance was emphasised, with the ICG’s growing reliance on indigenous platforms and technologies reflecting the Government’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar and senior officials from MoD & ICG were also present on the occasion.