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The government on Tuesday announced two major policy reforms for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), opening permanent service opportunities for women officers on par with men and simplifying compensation procedures for families of personnel reported missing at sea.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the reforms, describing them as measures aimed at strengthening gender equality within the force while providing faster financial relief to the families of personnel who go missing in the line of duty.
The first reform introduces a gender-neutral framework for officer induction, allowing women to be inducted into both Short Service Appointments (SSA) and Permanent Appointments (PA) on the same terms as their male counterparts. At the same time, the SSA stream has also been opened to male candidates.
The Defence Ministry said the policy ensures equal opportunities for career progression from the initial training stage. Existing women officers holding Permanent Appointments will be eligible for promotion to higher ranks, subject to meeting the prescribed criteria.
Women officers currently serving under Short Service Appointments will also have the option to convert to Permanent Appointments, provided they fulfill the stipulated conditions.
The ministry said the reforms reflect the government’s commitment to promoting gender parity and expanding opportunities for women in India’s maritime security framework.
The second policy aims to reduce delays in extending financial support to the families of Coast Guard personnel who go missing at sea while on operational duty.
Under the new provisions, the competent authority will be empowered to declare a Coast
Guard personnel reported missing at sea as “presumed dead” for the limited purpose of granting ex gratia compensation and terminal benefits. The move is expected to significantly expedite the release of financial assistance and reduce procedural hurdles for the next of kin during periods of uncertainty and distress.
The Ministry said the measure would spare families prolonged administrative processes while ensuring timely delivery of benefits.
Addressing the event, Singh praised the Indian Coast Guard’s service over the past five decades and said the reforms would enhance the force’s morale and operational effectiveness as it prepares to mark its golden jubilee in 2027.
He also reiterated the government’s commitment to building a modern, capable and future-ready Coast Guard to meet India’s growing maritime security requirements.
Team BharatShakti
