Indian Coast Guard Marks Golden Jubilee of Service
VINOD BHAT
NEW DELHI, Jan 31: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is set to commemorate its 50th Raising Day on February 1, 2026, marking five decades of unwavering service in safeguarding India’s vast maritime frontiers. Raised on February 1, 1977, the ICG has grown from a modest force of just seven surface platforms into a formidable maritime organisation, today operating 155 ships and 80 aircraft, with an ambitious roadmap to reach 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft by 2030.
According to Commandant Amit Uniyal, Public Relations Officer, Indian Coast Guard, the Golden Jubilee celebrations reflect not just an institutional milestone but a tribute to the dedication, courage and professionalism of generations of Coast Guard personnel who have served the nation selflessly at sea.
Conceived to address emerging maritime challenges and protect India’s expanding maritime interests, the Indian Coast Guard has steadily evolved into a multi-dimensional force entrusted with maritime law enforcement, coastal security, search and rescue operations, marine environmental protection, and humanitarian assistance. Over the years, the service has earned the enduring recognition of being the nation’s “Saviours at Sea.”
The Bharatiya Tatrakshak maintains constant vigilance over 2.01 million square kilometres of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and a coastline stretching 11,098.01 kilometres. Through extensive deployment of ships and aircraft, supported by advanced electronic surveillance systems, the ICG ensures a persistent presence at sea, deterring illegal activities and reassuring the maritime community.
At the core of its mission lies the noble duty of saving lives at sea. From navigating tempestuous waters during emergencies to carrying out critical medical evacuations and extending assistance to mariners in distress far from shore, the Indian Coast Guard has rescued over 11,800 lives since its inception. Its operational preparedness has been demonstrated in close coordination with the Indian Navy during Operation Sindoor, rescue missions in Lakshadweep, and the effective handling of three major maritime incidents off the Kerala coast.
Environmental protection remains a defining pillar of the Coast Guard’s mandate. In alignment with the national vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, the ICG continues to strengthen self-reliance through the induction of indigenously built ships, aircraft, helicopters and advanced surveillance systems, while also focusing on infrastructure development and personnel welfare.
The organisation has also reaffirmed its commitment to gender neutrality and inclusivity, ensuring equal opportunities for women across seagoing, aviation and shore-based roles, and fostering a professional work environment built on respect, merit and trust.
Guided by the Prime Minister’s vision of Amrit Kaal and anchored in the maritime doctrines of SAGAR and MAHASAGAR, the Indian Coast Guard has emerged as a key pillar of India’s maritime resurgence. The service continues to promote security, growth and cooperation, viewing the seas not merely as boundaries to be guarded but as pathways of partnership and shared prosperity.
On the global stage, the ICG has strengthened maritime partnerships through Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions and capacity-building initiatives, inspired by the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. A significant recognition of India’s growing maritime stature came in 2025, when World Coast Guard agencies unanimously decided to hand over the presidency of the 50th Coast Guard Global Summit to the Indian Coast Guard.
The organisation paid rich tributes to its veterans, acknowledging their vision and dedication in laying the foundation of the service, and recognised the unwavering support of Coast Guard families, described as the silent strength behind its operational success.
On the occasion of the 50th Raising Day, the President of India, Vice President of India, Prime Minister of India and the Defence Minister extended heartfelt congratulations to all ranks of the Indian Coast Guard, lauding its remarkable achievements and its vital role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests, PRO Commandant Amit Uniyal said.
