MINISTRY OF DEFENCE (INDIAN COAST GUARD) - YEAR END REVIEW 2023

 INDIAN COAST GUARD

 

• Digital Coast Guard: In alignment with the Government’s strategic vision for Digital Armed Forces, a contract was signed between Ministry of Defence and Telecommunications Consultants India Limited, worth at a total cost of Rs 588.68 crore, for the acquisition of Digital Coast Guard (DCG) project, under the Buy (Indian) category. The DCG Project will unfold a comprehensive narrative of technological progression, encompassing the construction of an advanced Data Centre, the establishment of a robust Disaster Recovery Data Centre, amplification of connectivity across ICG sites, and the development of the ERP system. The project also leverages secured MPLS/VSAT connectivity, propelling itself to the forefront of cutting-edge defence technology. The project is estimated to generate about one and a half lakh man-days over a span of five years, fostering active participation from diverse sectors of Indian industries, thus significantly contributing to the Government’s efforts to achieve ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence.
• Coast Guard Fast Patrol Vessels: Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane laid the keel of four Coast Guard Fast Patrol vessels at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). These vessels designed by GSL is a medium range weapon fitted surface vessel with length of 51.43 mtrs, and breadth 8 mtrs. The ship is propelled with twin engine and has maximum speed of 27 Knots. Displacement of the vessel is approx. 320 Tons, and it is capable of operating in rough sea conditions. These vessels will be fitted with most modern and technologically advanced machinery and computerized controls systems, making these state-of-the-art Fast Patrol Vessels.
• Cyclonic Storm ‘BIPORJOY’: Consequent to issuance of warning by IMD regarding Cyclonic Storm ‘BIPORJOY’ formed in Arabian Sea from 6th June, 2023, ICG initiated various proactive & preventive measures to ensure safety of fishermen. ICG ensured immediate evacuation of 50 crew from the rig ‘Key Singapore’.
• Cyclonic Storm Hamoon: ICG assets, including aircraft, were deployed during Cyclonic Storm Hamoon for SAR and Disaster Response. ICG also monitored towing operation of distressed Research Vessel Samudra Kaustubh (25 crew including 06 Scientists). During the entire period, constant positive, liaison was maintained with all stakeholders including State administration.
• MoU with Philippines: Indian Coast Guard signed an MoU with Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on enhanced maritime cooperation. The MoU seeks to enhance the professional linkage between the two Coast Guards in the domain of Maritime Law Enforcement. The PCG delegation visited GSL to witness India’s ship design capabilities and ICG off shore patrol vessels Sujeet at Goa to familiarize with multi-role capabilities of ICG ships.
• Rescue of pilgrims: ICG undertook 15 sorties and rescued a total of 511 pilgrims from two ferry vessels (MV Lochamati and MV Agramati) in distress. Both the ferry vessels were reported to be aground near 01 nautical mile South off Ghoramara Island. ICG Hovercrafts from Haldia and Frazerganj were deployed immediately.
• Seizure of Sea Cucumber: ICG recovered a total of 2,266 kgs of sea cucumber from the various shores of Tamil Nadu. The combined estimated commercial value of the consignments is approximately Rs 11.3 crore.
• Seizure of Gold: ICG seized a combined total of 50.617 kgs of gold from the apprehension of IFB ‘Star NS’ & IFB ‘Black Pearl’. The estimated commercial value of the consignments was approximately Rs 31 crore.
• Seizure of Tendu Leaves: ICG seized a total of 267 kgs of Tendu Leaves from suspicious packages. The combined estimated commercial value of the consignments is approximately Rs 19 lakh.
• Seizure of Narcotics: ICGS Meera Behn apprehended Iranian boat with five crew and seized 61 packets of suspected narcotics substance. Apprehended boat was subsequently brought to Okha harbour and handed over to Marine Police.

PIB  (Release ID: 1989502)