IMPROVEMENT IN COASTAL SECURITY

Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has taken following initiative to strengthen India's coastal security:

• ICG deploys 18-20 ships, 30-35 crafts and 10-12 aircraft for surveillance on a daily basis. ICG assets ensure maritime law enforcement to strengthen coastal security and maintain rule based order at sea. Surveillance efforts also focus on Offshore Development Area (ODA) and seas adjoining Island groups (Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep). Surveillance of coastal areas through Coastal Surveillance Network (CSN) and investigation by Remote Operating Station (ROS) and Remote Operating Centres (ROCs) are undertaken. During the last 10 years, ICG has conducted 3,00,296 Boarding Operations for deterrence and to establish identity of personnel, 153 Coastal Security Exercises, 451 Coastal Security Operations, 458 Security Drills and 3,645 Joint Coastal Patrol Sorties.

A total number of 179 boats have been seized and 1,683 personnel arrested over the last 10 years for illegally entering Indian waters. These boats were engaged in various illegal activities like poaching, narcotics smuggling, illegal immigration etc.

Funds utilised towards acquisition of ships and aircraft by ICG towards coastal security (Pan India) is Rs 12,201 crore. Fund utilised for CSN (Pan India) is Rs 1,583.8 crore.

Coastal Security Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Coastal States/Union Territories have been promulgated. These SOPs highlight responsibility of various stakeholder agencies, conduct of operations and response management for various coastal security States.

ICG interactions are focused on maritime safety and security. ICG conducts regular Community Interaction Programmes involving fisher folks. During the interactions, various maritime safety and security aspects are deliberated. A toll free number 1554 has also been promulgated for reporting of any eventuality at sea. Further, fishermen watch groups have been created by States for reporting of any suspicious activities along the coast. Training is imparted to ICG personnel and Marine Police personnel towards effective Coastal Security and performing their laid down role and functions.

This information was given by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth in a written reply to Shri Krishna Prasad Tenneti in the Lok Sabha today.

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