The Indian Coast Guard (ICG), which calls itself “the fourth service”, celebrates its 49th Raising Day on February 1, 2025.
Beginning with just seven surface ships in 1978, the ICG has grown into a professional and competent force with 151 ships and 78 aircraft in its inventory.
It aims to reach a force level of 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft by 2030. Due to its achievements in keeping the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the northern Indian Ocean safe, the ICG claims to be one of the world’s most effective coast guards.
The ICG is required to maintain order in the international shipping lanes up to 200 nautical miles and India’s vast seas over 11,000-kilometre shoreline.
The ICG has chosen the path of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India), which has resulted in inducting a large number of indigenous ships, aircraft and equipment during recent years.
In an exclusive interview with BharatShakti Editor-in-Chief Nitin A. Gokhale, Director General of Indian Coast Guard, Paramesh Sivamani speaks about the vital role of the organisation in ensuring India’s maritime security and significant steps being taken to strengthen its capacities on the eve of its 49th Raising Day.
