Indian Coast Guard Personnel Honoured for Exemplary Service at 18th ICG Investiture Ceremony

The awards included six President’s Tatrakshak Medals (Distinguished Service), 11 Tatrakshak Medals (Gallantry), and 15 Tatrakshak Medals (Meritorious Service).

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh conferred gallantry, distinguished service, and meritorious service medals to the personnel of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) during the 18th ICG Investiture Ceremony held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. A total of 32 medals were awarded for their outstanding service, unwavering bravery, and selfless dedication in extreme conditions over the years 2022, 2023, and 2024.

The awards included six President's Tatrakshak Medals (Distinguished Service), 11 Tatrakshak Medals (Gallantry), and 15 Tatrakshak Medals (Meritorious Service). These accolades recognize personnel for their contributions to ensuring national maritime security, countering illicit activities, and conducting successful rescue operations.

Recognition of Bravery and Dedication

Congratulating the awardees, Raksha Mantri described these medals as more than mere mementos—they symbolize courage, perseverance, and an unyielding commitment to safeguarding India's maritime interests. He lauded the personnel for their exemplary performance in coastal security, organizational efficiency, drug seizures, humanitarian rescue operations, and participation in international maritime exercises.

Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the rapid expansion of ICG, positioning it as one of the most formidable and efficient maritime forces globally. He highlighted India's strategic maritime security concerns, including threats from piracy, terrorism, illegal infiltration, smuggling, and illicit fishing. The ICG remains vigilant and proactive in countering these challenges, playing a vital role in securing India's extensive coastline.

ICG's Major Achievements in the Past Year

Over the last year, the Indian Coast Guard has achieved remarkable milestones in maritime security, law enforcement, and humanitarian operations:

• Apprehension of 14 Boats and 115 Pirates: Strengthening India's coastal security by preventing illegal maritime activities.
• Drug Seizures Worth Rs 37,000 Crore: A significant step in combatting narcotics trafficking in the region.
• Rescue Operations: Saving 169 lives at sea and providing medical assistance to 29 seriously injured individuals.

Raksha Mantri asserted that these figures are not mere statistics but a testament to ICG's dedication and operational excellence in protecting national security. By maintaining a high level of alertness along India's maritime borders, ICG plays a crucial role in preventing illegal infiltration and preserving national sovereignty.

Emerging Challenges and the Need for Technological Advancements

Acknowledging the evolving nature of threats in modern warfare, Shri Rajnath Singh urged ICG to remain vigilant against emerging challenges such as cyber threats, data breaches, signal jamming, radar disruptions, and GPS spoofing. He stressed that the security landscape is rapidly evolving, requiring advanced technological integration to counter both conventional and unconventional threats.

To enhance its capabilities, the Indian Coast Guard has been allocated Rs 9,676.70 crore for the Financial Year 2025-26, reflecting a 26.50% increase from the previous budget. This increased funding will support modernization efforts, including the procurement of:

• 14 Fast Patrol Vessels
• 6 Air Cushion Vehicles
• 22 Interceptor Boats
• 6 Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels
• 18 Next-Generation Fast Patrol Vessels

Additionally, the foundation for the Digital Coast Guard project has been laid to integrate cutting-edge technologies into ICG's operations, further strengthening its maritime surveillance and security capabilities.

Ceremonial Honours and Event Highlights

Prior to the award ceremony, Raksha Mantri inspected the Ceremonial Guard of Honour, marking the solemnity and significance of the occasion. The event concluded with interactions between Shri Rajnath Singh, the awardees, and their families, recognizing their invaluable contributions to national security.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, ICG Director General Paramesh Sivamani, senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, and the proud families of the awardees.