Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction: Define the Role of ICG

• Objective: Briefly introduce the Indian Coast Guard and its mission.
• Content: Mention the ICG’s establishment under the Coast Guard Act, 1978, and its mandate to ensure maritime security, safeguard offshore resources, and provide assistance in distress situations.

Fact to include: The ICG was established under the Coast Guard Act, 1978, with the primary mission of safeguarding India’s maritime interests.

2. Main Body: Detailed Role of ICG in Maritime Security

a. Maritime Patrol and Surveillance

• Key Point: ICG’s role in monitoring and surveilling India’s vast maritime borders to prevent threats.
• Content: Discuss the use of modern surveillance systems like the Coastal Surveillance Network (CSN) and Automatic Identification System (AIS).
• Example: Post-2008 Mumbai attacks, the ICG was tasked with coastal security, strengthening its surveillance capabilities.
• Fact to include: The CSN and AIS are vital for detecting and responding to potential maritime threats.

b. Maritime Law Enforcement

• Key Point: ICG’s role in enforcing maritime laws by combating smuggling, illegal fishing, and drug trafficking.
• Content: The ICG intercepts criminal activities on the seas, ensuring the enforcement of laws related to poaching, narcotics, and smuggling.
• Fact to include: In 2023, the ICG seized contraband worth Rs. 478 crores as part of its law enforcement activities.

c. Cooperation with Regional Partners

• Key Point: ICG’s collaboration with neighboring countries to ensure regional maritime security.
• Content: Highlight joint exercises, patrols, and information-sharing mechanisms between the ICG and other regional maritime agencies.
• Fact to include: India conducts joint maritime security exercises with neighboring countries as part of the “SAGAR” and “Neighbourhood First” policies.

d. Enhancing Maritime Domain Awareness

• Key Point: The role of ICG in improving maritime domain awareness to identify and deter potential threats like piracy and illegal fishing.
• Content: Explain how the ICG monitors vessel movements and detects threats in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
• Example: The ICG prevents illegal fishing by foreign vessels in the EEZ.
• Fact to include: The ICG’s surveillance efforts have helped prevent illegal activities in India’s EEZ.

e. Comprehensive Security Matrix

• Key Point: The ICG’s holistic approach to security, including coastal, offshore, anti-piracy, anti-terrorism, and port security.
• Content: Describe how the ICG works in coordination with other agencies, including the Indian Navy, to ensure comprehensive maritime security.
• Fact to include: The ICG contributes to national security by supporting the Indian Navy in maritime security efforts.

3. Conclusion: Importance of ICG in National Security

• Objective: Summarize the key points, emphasizing the critical role of the ICG in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
• Content: Conclude by mentioning how the ICG’s capabilities are continuously enhanced to meet the growing maritime security challenges posed by the Indian Ocean Region.

Fact to include: The government of India is investing in strengthening the ICG’s capabilities to ensure it remains a critical pillar of maritime security and economic development.

Relevant Facts for the Answer:

1. ICG’s Mission
   • Fact: The Indian Coast Guard was established under the Coast Guard Act, 1978, with the mission of protecting offshore resources and ensuring maritime safety.
   • Source: Coast Guard Act, 1978.
2. Maritime Patrol and Surveillance
   • Fact: The ICG employs advanced technologies like the Coastal Surveillance Network (CSN) and Automatic Identification System (AIS) to detect maritime threats.
   • Source: ICG operational reports, surveillance technologies.
3. Maritime Law Enforcement
   • Fact: The ICG has seized contraband worth Rs. 15,343 crores, including Rs. 478 crores in 2023, as part of its law enforcement efforts.
   • Source: ICG reports on anti-smuggling and narcotics control.
4. Cooperation with Regional Partners
   • Fact: India conducts joint exercises and patrols with neighboring countries as part of its maritime security policies.
   • Source: Government statements on the “SAGAR” and “Neighbourhood First” policies.
5. Enhancing Maritime Domain Awareness
   • Fact: The ICG monitors illegal fishing activities in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), preventing foreign vessels from exploiting marine resources.
   • Source: ICG reports on illegal fishing and EEZ protection.
6. Comprehensive Security Matrix
   • Fact: The ICG supports the Indian Navy and plays a significant role in anti-piracy, anti-terrorism, and port security operations.
   • Source: ICG’s role in national security and coordination with the Indian Navy.

This roadmap guides the structuring of a clear, concise, and well-supported answer, highlighting the ICG’s pivotal role in safeguarding India’s maritime security.