KD NEWS SERVICE
NEW DELHI, Apr 17: India asserted its growing stature as a key maritime security player on the global stage by actively participating in the prestigious World Border Security Congress 2026 held in Vienna from April 14 to 16. A three-member Indian delegation, led by Additional Director General Anand Prakash Badola, represented the country at the high-level international forum that brought together global leaders in border and maritime security.
The Congress, established in 2012, has evolved into a premier platform for dialogue among senior government officials, security experts, policymakers, and industry leaders. It focuses on emerging challenges in border management, cutting-edge technological innovations, and the adoption of best practices, while also fostering international cooperation in tackling transnational threats.
Addressing a key session on “Maritime Safety and Security,” ADG Badola highlighted the proactive and strategic role played by the Indian Coast Guard (Bharatiya Tatrakshak) in safeguarding India’s vast maritime domain. He underscored the force’s efforts in ensuring coastal and offshore security, preventing illegal activities at sea such as smuggling and trafficking, and strengthening regional maritime collaboration.
Badola emphasized that maritime borders are inherently complex and dynamic, requiring coordinated and sustained efforts among nations. He called for enhanced international collaboration, seamless intelligence sharing, and integrated security frameworks to effectively address evolving maritime threats, while maintaining respect for national sovereignty.
The Indian delegation also showcased the country’s best practices in maritime governance, highlighting initiatives aimed at strengthening surveillance, rapid response capabilities, and inter-agency coordination. India’s approach reflects its commitment to building a robust and resilient maritime security architecture capable of addressing both conventional and non-traditional threats.
Participation in the global summit further reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and contributing constructively to global security frameworks. The country’s engagement at such forums underscores its intent to play a leading role in promoting safe, secure, and rules-based maritime order.
Officials noted that India’s consistent presence at international security platforms not only enhances its diplomatic outreach but also facilitates the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and technological advancements critical to modern border management.
With maritime security emerging as a critical pillar of national and global security, India’s active contribution at the Vienna Congress signals its readiness to collaborate with the international community in addressing shared challenges and ensuring stability across the world’s oceans.
