The Indian Coast Guard personnel are responsible for the security of the Indian maritime borders. But do you know what kind of missions they are sent on? Today we will tell you some interesting facts related to the Indian Coast Guard.
Indian Coast Guard
Let us tell you that every year on 1 February, Indian Coast Guard Day is celebrated. For information, let us tell you that this is the armed force of India, its soldiers protect the maritime borders. Along with this, they handle relief and rescue operations for maritime interests. It is led by an officer of the rank of Vice-Admiral of the Indian Navy.
The motto of the Indian Coast Guard is ‘Vayam Raksham:’ which means we protect. Their specialty is preparedness, readiness and accountability. The Indian Coast Guard is the smallest armed force of India. The Indian Coast Guard has an important contribution in protecting against piracy, smuggling and disasters.
When was it established?
In 1977, the establishment of Indian Coast Guard was approved with two ships and five patrol boats to protect the country’s maritime borders. After this, on 1 February 1978, the Indian Coast Guard took over the responsibility of overseeing the aquatic and economic sector. On 19 August 1978, the then Prime Minister of India Morarji Desai formally inaugurated the Indian Coast Guard.
Interesting facts related to Indian Coast Guard
• The Indian Coast Guard works in collaboration with the Indian Navy, Fisheries Department, Revenue Department and the central and state police forces to protect the maritime borders.
• Let us tell you that it protects 7516.60 km of coastline of India, which includes kilometres of coastline of various states and some of the busiest trade routes.
• Almost every member of the Indian Coast Guard gets the opportunity to visit some foreign countries during their service.
• The Indian Coast Guard has been established to provide non-military maritime services. It cannot take part in any kind of military action. However, its soldiers remain alert to prevent any other maritime intrusion.
• Unlike India’s land, air and naval services, the Indian Coast Guard has a provision to serve till the age of 60 years.
• Indian Coast Guard ships are different from Indian Navy ships and they protect the Indian borders.
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