IG Bhisham Sharma Calls on J&K Youth to Join Maritime Forces
SYED BASHARAT
MUMBAI, Oct 10: A delegation of journalists from Jammu and Kashmir, currently on a five-day PIB Media Exposure Tour to Mumbai, on Friday visited the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Headquarters (Region West), where they received an in-depth briefing on the organisation’s operational framework, maritime security responsibilities, and humanitarian roles.
Addressing the delegation, Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, Commander, Indian Coast Guard Region (West), who hails from Jammu, encouraged the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to explore career opportunities in the Indian Coast Guard. “The Coast Guard offers a vibrant and challenging career that combines adventure, discipline, and national service,” IG Sharma said. “For the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, joining the Coast Guard can bring a sea change in their lives and their perception of the world. It provides not just employment, but a sense of pride and purpose in serving the nation’s maritime frontiers.”
He highlighted that the Indian Coast Guard is among the most dynamic arms of India’s security forces, providing its personnel with extensive exposure to modern technology, international cooperation, and emergency response operations. “From maritime law enforcement to environmental protection and disaster relief, the Coast Guard offers a diverse platform for growth and learning,” he added.
Deputy Inspector General Bhanu Gupta, Officer-in-Charge, Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai, who also hails from Jammu, echoed the appeal to the youth of the Union Territory. “The Coast Guard gives young men and women from Jammu and Kashmir a chance to be part of something larger than themselves — to serve the nation, to travel, and to gain experiences that transform their outlook,” DIG Gupta said. He also shared details about the operations of MRCC Mumbai, which functions as a key command centre for coordinating maritime rescue missions along India’s western coast.
Earlier, the delegation was welcomed and initially briefed by RPRO Indian Coast Guard Ravi Venugopal, who explained the communication strategies and outreach activities of the maritime force. This was followed by an in-depth presentation by DIG Ajay Chaturvedi, who elaborated on the Coast Guard’s mandate, organisational structure, and coordination with other maritime and defence agencies.
The media team was later given a detailed operational overview by DIG Bhanu Gupta, who highlighted the Coast Guard’s role in real-time rescue operations, maritime surveillance, and coordination with global search-and-rescue agencies. He also shared case studies of major rescue missions and anti-smuggling operations that underscore the strategic importance of the Coast Guard in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
Inspector General Bhisham Sharma also shed light on the technological advancements adopted by the force, including new-generation offshore patrol vessels, helicopters, and coastal radar networks, which have enhanced maritime vigilance and response capabilities. He noted that the Coast Guard’s humanitarian and environmental missions, especially during natural disasters, showcase its multifaceted service to the nation.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Neha Jalali, Director, PIB Jammu, said, “Visits like these enable media professionals from Jammu and Kashmir to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse institutional frameworks that shape India’s governance, security, and communication systems. Engaging directly with organisations such as the Indian Coast Guard and PIB Mumbai helps bridge the information gap and equips journalists to bring nuanced, fact-based reporting to their audiences.”
She added that such initiatives are vital for building awareness about national institutions among regional journalists, fostering accurate reporting, and encouraging youth participation in nation-building activities.
Officials from the Indian Coast Guard appreciated the enthusiasm of the media professionals from Jammu and Kashmir, expressing hope that their engagement would inspire more youth from the region to consider careers in maritime and defence services.
