To Procure 100 Aircraft By 2030: Indian Coast Guard's 48th Raising Day

BY A STAFF REPORTER: The Indian Coast Guard celebrated its 48th raising day on 1st February, Thursday. Moreover, the ICG aims to achieve a targeted force of 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft by 2030. 

Serving its motto 'Vayam Rakshamah' (we protect), The ICG has rescued nearly 11,554 lives since its Inauguration in 1977. Moreover, it saved 200 lives in the last year. 

The ICG has deployed around 50-60 ships and 10-12 aircraft daily to safeguard India's maritime boundaries. Along with this, the ICG has recovered weapons, contraband, and narcotics worth Rs. 15,343 crores since its inception. Furthermore, it seized rs. 478 crores of contraband in 2023 during its sea operations to prevent the exploitation of maritime routes.

ICG has significantly contributed to 'Make In India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan' initiatives as 90% of CG's budget is spent on indigenous assets. Along with this, they have inducted numerous indigenously built assets including ships, aircraft, and other equipment. Furthermore, 21 ships are under construction comprising two pollution control vessels which will be the frontline ships for eliminating sea pollution in the Area of Responsibility (AoR). 

To uphold air surveillance, 16 ALH MK-III aircraft have been incorporated into ICG. ICG has also finalized a contract for the procurement of two additional Dornier aircraft. A contract for nine advanced light helicopters and six multi-mission maritime surveillance aircraft is in the works.

On the eve of 48th Raising Day-2024..!!#CoastGuardDay-24 @IndiaCoastGuard Day (01 Feb)

वयम रक्षामः #WeProtect@giridhararamane pic.twitter.com/Lwn660lrpM

— Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) January 31, 2024

Contributing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'cleanliness across the nation', the ICG launched 'Swacch Sagar, Surakshit Sagar' and 'Punit Sagar Abhiyan' missions across the country. 

President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also congratulated on the 48th raising day of the Indian Coast Guard.