Indian Coast Guard Must Adapt Quickly to Future Maritime Security Threats and Technologies

Defence News Nexus Exclusive: Indian Coast Guard Commanders' Conference Emphasises Importance of Technological Advancements and Inter-Service Collaboration

In a bid to bolster national and maritime security, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has kicked off its 43rd Commanders' Conference in New Delhi, bringing together key stakeholders to address pressing concerns and emerging challenges. The three-day conference, which commenced on September 17, 2026, saw Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth engage in discussions with ICG Director General Paramesh Sivamani and Coast Guard Commanders on vital issues affecting the country's maritime interests.

During his address, Shri Sanjay Seth commended the ICG for its exemplary work in safeguarding the nation's maritime interests, ensuring coastal security, and serving as the first responder in times of distress at sea. He praised the organisation's dedication to saving precious lives, regardless of nationality, and stressed the need for the ICG to remain prepared for emerging maritime security challenges by embracing rapid technological advancements.

Highlighting the dynamic nature of warfare and security challenges, Shri Sanjay Seth underscored the growing importance of networks, sensors, software, data, Artificial Intelligence, autonomous systems, cyber capabilities, and space-based technologies. He urged the ICG to not only utilise these emerging technologies but also become a co-creator by collaborating with start-ups, industry, DRDO, and research institutions.

"Aatmanirbharta is not merely about buying Indian; it is about developing solutions for Indian challenges and creating capabilities that can meet global requirements. This embodies our vision of 'Make in India, Make of World'," added Raksha Rajya Mantri.

The ICG's crucial role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations was also highlighted, with Shri Sanjay Seth stating that the organisation's capabilities play a vital role in search and rescue, medical evacuation, disaster response, and pollution control. He stressed the need for India to strengthen its maritime capabilities across the spectrum, from the littoral and green waters to the open oceans and blue waters, in line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).

During the conference, the ICG Commanders will also engage in discussions with Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, fostering inter-service collaboration across the full spectrum of maritime security. The deliberations will promote the growth, capability development, and infrastructure expansion of the ICG.

Emerging Technologies and Inter-Service Collaboration: Key Focus Areas for ICG

The ICG Commanders' Conference will provide a platform for the organisation to comprehensively review its operational preparedness, material and logistical support, HR development, training, and administrative initiatives undertaken over the past year. The conference will also assess ongoing projects aimed at strengthening indigenisation through the 'Make in India' initiative, in alignment with the Government's vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'.

Key Takeaways

• The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has kicked off its 43rd Commanders' Conference in New Delhi, bringing together key stakeholders to address pressing concerns and emerging challenges.
• Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth commended the ICG for its exemplary work in safeguarding the nation's maritime interests and stressed the need for the organisation to remain prepared for emerging maritime security challenges.
• The ICG's crucial role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations was highlighted, with a focus on strengthening India's maritime capabilities across the spectrum.
• The conference will promote inter-service collaboration across the full spectrum of maritime security, with discussions between ICG Commanders and Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan.
• The ICG will assess ongoing projects aimed at strengthening indigenisation through the 'Make in India' initiative, in alignment with the Government's vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'.