The Indian Coast Guard will stage SAREX-2026 off Odisha’s Paradip coast, simulating a passenger aircraft crash and container-ship collision involving hundreds of people. The exercise will test multi-agency rescue, evacuation, and international coordination across the Indian Ocean.

SAREX 2026 maritime drill held off Paradip Coast in Odisha 

The Indian Coast Guard on Wednesday (Sep 30) said it had foiled a major maritime drug smuggling attempt in the Arabian Sea, west of Lakshadweep. India, as per the Coast Guard, has seized narcotics valued at more than ₹3,000 crore in the international market, apprehending five Pakistani nationals.The operation involved an Iranian dhow carrying five Pakistani nationals. It was conducted jointly by the Indian Coast Guard and the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).The seized contraband included 526 kg of heroin and methamphetamine, according to the Coast Guard.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-kind-of-confession-is-this-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-s-terrorists-would-be-roaming-new-york-remark-goes-viral-raises-alarm-online-watch-1790136284702">'What kind of confession is this?': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s 'terrorists would be roaming New York' remark goes viral, raises alarm online. Watch</a><h2>Pakistani nationals intercepted after sea-air surveillance</h2>The Coast Guard said its assets acted on actionable intelligence and maintained continuous surveillance of the suspected vessel before launching a hot pursuit.“Executing precise sea-air surveillance based on actionable intelligence, Bharatiya Tatrakshak assets maintained unyielding tracking before initiating hot pursuit, neutralizing the target, and boarding a suspicious Iranian dhow on 25 September 2026,” it said in a statement.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In an intelligence-led joint operation with ATS Gujarat, and Central Intelligence Agency, <a href="https://x.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> units interdicted a suspicious Iranian dhow in the Arabian Sea, west of <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Lakshadweep?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lakshadweep</a>. Positive detection, sustained tracking and a hot pursuit culminated in tactical… <a href="https://t.co/p2BthJvndS">pic.twitter.com/p2BthJvndS</a>&mdash; Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) <a href="https://x.com/IndiaCoastGuard/status/2105122206099591234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The vessel was intercepted in the Arabian Sea on September 25, with the operation resulting in the seizure of the narcotics.The Coast Guard described the operation as an example of its maritime surveillance and enforcement capabilities against illicit activities in India's maritime zones.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-polic-couple-arrested-isi-pakistan-linked-espionage-sim-cards-spy-network-india-1787897385131">ISI spy module busted in Delhi? Police arrest couple over alleged Pakistan links</a><h2>Dhow, crew and drugs taken to Mumbai</h2>Following the interception, the dhow, its crew and the seized contraband were escorted to Mumbai under armed guard.“The intercepted dhow, crew, and seized contraband have been escorted under armed escort to Mumbai for joint interrogation and comprehensive multi-agency legal proceedings,” the Coast Guard said.The joint investigation is expected to examine the origin of the drugs, their intended destination and the wider network allegedly involved in the attempted smuggling.<h2>Coast Guard highlights Nasha Mukt Bharat push</h2>The Coast Guard said the seizure would help disrupt the financial networks behind international drug trafficking and prevent narcotics from reaching India's shores.“By crippling the financial engine of hostile foreign syndicates and intercepting toxic synthetic substances before they reach mainland shores, this mission serves as a critical force multiplier to the government’s vision of a Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan,” it said. &nbsp;

The Indian Coast Guard, in a joint operation with Gujarat's Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), has foiled a major drug smuggling attempt in the Arabian Sea, seizing narcotics worth more than Rs 3,000 crore in the international market. Five Pakistani nationals aboard an Iranian dhow were apprehended.

The Indian Coast Guard on Wednesday (Sep 30) said it had foiled a major maritime drug smuggling attempt in the Arabian Sea, west of Lakshadweep. India, as per the Coast Guard, has seized narcotics valued at more than ₹3,000 crore in the international market, apprehending five Pakistani nationals. The operation involved an Iranian dhow carrying five Pakistani nationals. It was conducted jointly by the Indian Coast Guard and the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). The seized contraband included 526 kg of heroin and methamphetamine, according to the Coast Guard. Also read | 'What kind of confession is this?': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s 'terrorists would be roaming New York' remark goes viral, raises alarm online. Watch Pakistani nationals intercepted after sea-air surveillance The Coast Guard said its assets acted on actionable intelligence and maintained continuous surveillance of the suspected vessel before launching a hot pursuit. “Executing precise sea-air surveillance based on actionable intelligence, Bharatiya Tatrakshak assets maintained unyielding tracking before initiating hot pursuit, neutralizing the target, and boarding a suspicious Iranian dhow on 25 September 2026,” it said in a statement.

Indian Coast Guard and Gujarat ATS have intercepted an Iranian dhow in the Arabian Sea, apprehending five Pakistani nationals and seizing 526 kg of heroin and methamphetamine worth over Rs 3,000 crore in the international market.

India foils major Pakistani drug smuggling bid: Five arrested with 526 kg heroin, meth in Arabian sea

A tilting chemical tanker loaded with 9,000 tonnes of palm oil, with 23 crew aboard, was pulled back from the brink off the Odisha coast after a swift Indian Coast Guard (ICG) operation that officials say averted a major maritime incident.The Belize-flagged MT Seagull 9 sent an urgent distress call at about 0730 hrs on 27 September. Its main engine had failed, and its ballast tanks were flooding fast, pushing the ship into a dangerous tilt roughly 37 nautical miles east-south-east of Paradip.&nbsp;ICG Ship (ICGS) Vishwast was dispatched immediately. A specialist damage control team then boarded the unstable vessel in difficult conditions. Using submersible de-flooding pumps and other damage-control equipment, the team arrested the leakage, blanked two damaged seawater pipelines and contained a third fractured line.&nbsp;Coast Guard and ship's crew then worked together on cargo transfer and de-flooding at the same time. This stabilised the tanker and removed the threat of capsizing. The danger went beyond the ship. A capsized or breached vessel carrying such a cargo could have threatened the surrounding marine ecosystem. A minor palm-oil sheen was spotted near the vessel on 27 September, but follow-up aerial sorties on 28 September confirmed it had fully dissipated.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-eci-four-months-tmc-name-symbol-dispute-1790606827719">Supreme Court gives ECI four months to resolve TMC name, symbol dispute</a>&nbsp;An ICG Dornier aircraft flying from Bhubaneswar provided real-time aerial surveillance. The Coast Guard has also diverted a Pollution Control Vessel and an additional Offshore Patrol Vessel to the area for stronger pollution response and round-the-clock monitoring. Strict pollution-response protocols remain active.&nbsp;The rescue became a multi-agency effort as the Paradip Port Authority's tug Dolphin took the stabilised tanker under tow to the anchorage off Paradip. Repairs to the main engine are under way, with help from ICGS Vishwast's technical team.&nbsp;ICGS Vishwast and the other deployed assets remain on scene, maintaining what the Coast Guard describes as an active sentinel watch and providing continuous operational support. The incident shows the value of rapid response on India's busy eastern sea lanes, where a single mechanical failure can escalate within hours into a threat to lives, cargo and coastline.

The Indian Coast Guard rescued the tilting tanker MT Seagull 9, carrying 9,000 tonnes of palm oil and 23 crew, off Odisha after engine failure and flooding. Damage control stabilised it, a minor oil sheen dissipated, and it was towed to Paradip.

A tilting chemical tanker loaded with 9,000 tonnes of palm oil, with 23 crew aboard, was pulled back from the brink off the Odisha coast after a swift Indian Coast Guard (ICG) operation that officials say averted a major maritime incident. The Belize-flagged MT Seagull 9 sent an urgent distress call at about 0730 hrs on 27 September. Its main engine had failed, and its ballast tanks were flooding fast, pushing the ship into a dangerous tilt roughly 37 nautical miles east-south-east of Paradip. ICG Ship (ICGS) Vishwast was dispatched immediately. A specialist damage control team then boarded the unstable vessel in difficult conditions. Using submersible de-flooding pumps and other damage-control equipment, the team arrested the leakage, blanked two damaged seawater pipelines and contained a third fractured line. Coast Guard and ship's crew then worked together on cargo transfer and de-flooding at the same time. This stabilised the tanker and removed the threat of capsizing. The danger went beyond the ship. A capsized or breached vessel carrying such a cargo could have threatened the surrounding marine ecosystem. A minor palm-oil sheen was spotted near the vessel on 27 September, but follow-up aerial sorties on 28 September confirmed it had fully dissipated. Also read: Supreme Court gives ECI four months to resolve TMC name, symbol dispute An ICG Dornier aircraft flying from Bhubaneswar provided real-time aerial surveillance. The Coast Guard has also diverted a Pollution Control Vessel and an additional Offshore Patrol Vessel to the area for stronger pollution response and round-the-clock monitoring. Strict pollution-response protocols remain active. The rescue became a multi-agency effort as the Paradip Port Authority's tug Dolphin took the stabilised tanker under tow to the anchorage off Paradip. Repairs to the main engine are under way, with help from ICGS Vishwast's technical team. ICGS Vishwast and the other deployed assets remain on scene, maintaining what the Coast Guard describes as an active sentinel watch and providing continuous operational support. The incident shows the value of rapid response on India's busy eastern sea lanes, where a single mechanical failure can escalate within hours into a threat to lives, cargo and coastline.

The Indian Coast Guard rescued the tilting tanker MT Seagull 9, carrying 9,000 tonnes of palm oil and 23 crew, off Odisha after engine failure and flooding. Damage control stabilised it, a minor oil sheen dissipated, and it was towed to Paradip.

Coast guard races to save listing tanker off Paradip, averting maritime disaster

Amid rough seas, strong winds, poor visibility and darkness, Indian Coast Guard(ICG) Ship Sachet rescued six fishermen from their vessel, Indian Fishing Boat Manju Matha, which had suffered hull damage and severe flooding. The rescue was carried out during the evening hours on Monday (29th June), about 33 nautical miles (61 kms) off Surathkal coast, Mangaluru, India's southwest coast.According to the Indian Coast Guard, they intercepted a distress call over the Very High Frequency Radio Transmission at around 4 pm. Despite the adverse sea conditions and the active southwest monsoon, the ICG immediately diverted its ship Sachet to render assistance, and reached the distressed vessel within 90 minutes.Given the challenging conditions at sea, the crew of ICG Ship Sachet decided to deploy remotely-operated lifebuoys. These are floatation devices that can be dropped into the sea, and then remotely controlled and steered towards distressed persons adrift at sea. Once the distressed person makes contact with the remotely operated buoy and holds on to it, the buoy can be remotely steered back to the mother ship. For similar operations during better weather conditions, the ICG also deploys drones from their ships to carry conventional floatation devices or lifebuoys to distressed people at sea, following which they are rescued and brought aboard the ship.ICG said that all fishers from the distressed vessel were rescued safely and without injury by 6pm, Monday. Following the successful recovery, ICGS Sachet is presently entering New Mangalore for the safe disembarkation of the rescued crew and the completion of further formalities."The operation stands as a testament to the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding life at sea. It highlights the effective integration of modern technology with the courage, training, and professionalism of Coast Guard personnel in overcoming the most demanding maritime emergencies. The Indian Coast Guard remains steadfast in its motto, “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), continuing to maintain constant vigil over India’s maritime domain and ensuring timely assistance to those in distress at sea," ICG added.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Coast Guard, they intercepted a distress call over the Very High Frequency Radio Transmission at around 4 pm. Despite the adverse sea conditions and the active southwest monsoon, the ICG immediately diverted its ship Sachet to render assistance.

Amid rough seas, strong winds, poor visibility and darkness, Indian Coast Guard(ICG) Ship Sachet rescued six fishermen from their vessel, Indian Fishing Boat Manju Matha, which had suffered hull damage and severe flooding. The rescue was carried out during the evening hours on Monday (29th June), about 33 nautical miles (61 kms) off Surathkal coast, Mangaluru, India's southwest coast. According to the Indian Coast Guard, they intercepted a distress call over the Very High Frequency Radio Transmission at around 4 pm. Despite the adverse sea conditions and the active southwest monsoon, the ICG immediately diverted its ship Sachet to render assistance, and reached the distressed vessel within 90 minutes. Given the challenging conditions at sea, the crew of ICG Ship Sachet decided to deploy remotely-operated lifebuoys. These are floatation devices that can be dropped into the sea, and then remotely controlled and steered towards distressed persons adrift at sea. Once the distressed person makes contact with the remotely operated buoy and holds on to it, the buoy can be remotely steered back to the mother ship. For similar operations during better weather conditions, the ICG also deploys drones from their ships to carry conventional floatation devices or lifebuoys to distressed people at sea, following which they are rescued and brought aboard the ship. ICG said that all fishers from the distressed vessel were rescued safely and without injury by 6pm, Monday. Following the successful recovery, ICGS Sachet is presently entering New Mangalore for the safe disembarkation of the rescued crew and the completion of further formalities. "The operation stands as a testament to the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding life at sea. It highlights the effective integration of modern technology with the courage, training, and professionalism of Coast Guard personnel in overcoming the most demanding maritime emergencies. The Indian Coast Guard remains steadfast in its motto, “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), continuing to maintain constant vigil over India’s maritime domain and ensuring timely assistance to those in distress at sea," ICG added.

According to the Indian Coast Guard, they intercepted a distress call over the Very High Frequency Radio Transmission at around 4 pm. Despite the adverse sea conditions and the active southwest monsoon, the ICG immediately diverted its ship Sachet to render assistance.

Amid rough seas, Indian Coast Guard rescues 6 fishers off Mangaluru using remote-controlled buoys

In a joint operation between the Indian Coast Guard and the Omani authorities, at least 24 Indian seafarers were saved after a missile strike on a foreign-flagged oil tanker on Monday (June 8). The Palau-flagged vessel, Marivex, had reported a fire incident off the coast of Oman. Upon receiving the alert, Mumbai’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) collaborated with Omani officials to secure the crew's rescue. Footage from the scene showed Omani helicopters hovering over the ship's deck to evacuate the stranded seafarers. "Swift response by MRCC Mumbai following missile attack on MT Marivex in Oman SRR. On receiving information, MRCC Mumbai immediately coordinated with OMSC Oman, ensuring the safe rescue of 24 Indian crew by Oman Navy helicopters," it said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Swift response by <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/MRCC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MRCC</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> following missile attack on MT Marivex in <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/OmanSRR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OmanSRR</a>. On receiving information, MRCC Mumbai immediately coordinated with OMSC Oman, ensuring the safe rescue of 24 <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> crew by <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Oman?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Oman</a> Navy helicopters.<a href="https://x.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> remains steadfast in its… <a href="https://t.co/ULDjzgEK4g">pic.twitter.com/ULDjzgEK4g</a>&mdash; Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) <a href="https://x.com/IndiaCoastGuard/status/2064142668972867943?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-caused-the-deadly-delhi-malviya-nagar-hotel-fire-probe-points-to-two-possible-triggers-what-we-know-1780977125526">What caused the deadly Delhi hotel fire? Probe points to two possible triggers – What we know</a><h3>All Indian seafarers are safe</h3>Maritime traffic data indicated that the vessel Marivex was sailing from Karwar in India to Duqm in Oman when it was targeted in a missile attack. Shipping Ministry Director Opesh Kumar Sharma confirmed yesterday that all Indian seafarers on board are safe. He further noted that the Shipping Ministry, working alongside the Directorate General of Shipping, has successfully coordinated the safe repatriation of 3,506 Indian seafarers to date, which includes 32 sailors brought home within the last 96 hours. Additionally, the Coast Guard reiterated its unwavering commitment to protecting Indian lives throughout the Indian Ocean region, maintaining close coordination with neighbouring coastal nations. "International cooperation with friendly foreign countries remains a key focus for ICG to ensure prompt and effective search and rescue in the Indo-Pacific," it added.&nbsp;

An Indian Coast Guard and Omani joint operation rescued 24 Indian seafarers after a missile strike hit the Palau-flagged tanker Marivex off Oman on June 8. All crew are safe, and the Shipping Ministry is coordinating their repatriation.

In a joint operation between the Indian Coast Guard and the Omani authorities, at least 24 Indian seafarers were saved after a missile strike on a foreign-flagged oil tanker on Monday (June 8). The Palau-flagged vessel, Marivex, had reported a fire incident off the coast of Oman. Upon receiving the alert, Mumbai’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) collaborated with Omani officials to secure the crew's rescue. Footage from the scene showed Omani helicopters hovering over the ship's deck to evacuate the stranded seafarers. "Swift response by MRCC Mumbai following missile attack on MT Marivex in Oman SRR. On receiving information, MRCC Mumbai immediately coordinated with OMSC Oman, ensuring the safe rescue of 24 Indian crew by Oman Navy helicopters," it said.

An Indian Coast Guard and Omani joint operation rescued 24 Indian seafarers after a missile strike hit the Palau-flagged tanker Marivex off Oman on June 8. All crew are safe, and the Shipping Ministry is coordinating their repatriation.

VIDEO: Indian Coast Guard and Oman officials rescue 24 Indian seafarers from burning tanker after missile attack

In a viral video from Thursday (23rd April), an Indian Coast Guard Chetak helicopter was seen flying meters above the high-security Sabarimala hilltop temple in Kerala. The helicopter flying at such a low altitude had sparked concerns. Nestled within the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district, the major pilgrimage site is at an altitude of around 500meters. Known for its strict traditions, this temple attracts millions of devotees every year. The incident took place around 11 am on Thursday.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An Indian coast Guard Chetak Helicopter is seen flying meters above the Sabarimala hilltop temple in Kerala. Chopper is seen slowly overlying the temple, following which it speeds away. Incident has sparked concerns. Coast Guard says &quot;chopper deviated due to adverse weather&quot; <a href="https://t.co/NGQzSZgX0Q">pic.twitter.com/NGQzSZgX0Q</a>&mdash; Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/2047553940867449314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

For a few seconds, the video showed the helicopter flying at an extremely slow pace, exactly above the Hindu temple of Lord Ayyappa, following which it sped away. The helicopter was seen meters above the Sabarimala temple's 'Kodimaram', (also known as Dhwajasthambam), which is a sacred, tall flagpole installed in front of Hindu temples. Following the incident, authorities in Kerala are said to have launched a probe."On 23 April 2026, during a routine training sortie from Kochi, one of our aircraft encountered adverse weather conditions. As a precaution, the crew briefly deviated from the planned track while seeking clearer skies. The aircraft returned safely to Kochi without incident. Training operations continue as scheduled," the Indian Coast Guard said in a statement, without elaborating further.

The helicopter was seen meters above the Sabarimala temple's 'Kodimaram', (also known as Dhwajasthambam), which is a sacred, tall flagpole installed in front of Hindu temples.

In a viral video from Thursday (23rd April), an Indian Coast Guard Chetak helicopter was seen flying meters above the high-security Sabarimala hilltop temple in Kerala. The helicopter flying at such a low altitude had sparked concerns. Nestled within the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district, the major pilgrimage site is at an altitude of around 500meters. Known for its strict traditions, this temple attracts millions of devotees every year. The incident took place around 11 am on Thursday.

The helicopter was seen meters above the Sabarimala temple's 'Kodimaram', (also known as Dhwajasthambam), which is a sacred, tall flagpole installed in front of Hindu temples.

India: Coast Guard helicopter flies meters above Sabarimala temple; ICG blames weather

The Indian Defence Ministry inked contracts worth Rs. 5,083 crore ($552mn) for the purchase of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard, and Russian Surface-to-Air, Vertical Launch 'Shtil' missiles for the Indian Navy. The contracts were inked in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, on Tuesday, (March 3).&nbsp;The contract for ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) along with operational role equipment, an engineering support package, and performance-based logistics support, valued at Rs 2,901 crore, has been signed with the government firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bengaluru. ALH Mk-III is an indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured platform that is a variant of the ALH or Dhruv series of helicopters that have been operational with the Indian armed forces for over two decades. These 5.5 ton-class, twin-engine helicopters are meant to undertake a wide spectrum of maritime security missions from the Coast Guard's shore-based airfields&nbsp;and from ships at sea. The induction will significantly enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s capability for fulfilling the duties of safety and protection of islands, offshore installations, and protection of fishermen and marine environment. The six helicopters will add to the existing fleet of the Coast Guard's ALH helicopters. The Indian ALH fleet had come under scrutiny in 2025, after a crash at the Porbandar airport runway in Gujarat. Tragically, all three Coast Guard crew onboard had lost their lives in the mishap. Following this incident, the entire ALH fleet of the Indian Armed Forces were grounded for inspection. While the Army and Air Force fleet of ALH's resumed flying after a grounding period of a few months, the maritime variants(operated by the Navy and Coast Guard) have had a year-long grounding. The contract for the procurement of Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch 'Shtil' missiles and associated missile holding frames, valued at Rs 2,182 crore, has been signed with the Russian Government defence firm JSC Rosoboronexport.&nbsp;The acquisition is intended to enhance the air defence capabilities of frontline warships against a wide spectrum of aerial threats. The Shtil missiles have been operational with Indian frontline warships for well over two decades. These missiles are meant to counter incoming missiles, helicopters, aircraft, among others.

Indian government inks $552 million deal for indigenous helicopters, Russian missiles

The Indian Defence Ministry inked contracts worth Rs. 5,083 crore ($552mn) for the purchase of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard, and Russian Surface-to-Air, Vertical Launch 'Shtil' missiles for the Indian Navy. The contracts were inked in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, on Tuesday, (March 3). The contract for ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) along with operational role equipment, an engineering support package, and performance-based logistics support, valued at Rs 2,901 crore, has been signed with the government firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bengaluru. ALH Mk-III is an indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured platform that is a variant of the ALH or Dhruv series of helicopters that have been operational with the Indian armed forces for over two decades. These 5.5 ton-class, twin-engine helicopters are meant to undertake a wide spectrum of maritime security missions from the Coast Guard's shore-based airfields and from ships at sea. The induction will significantly enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s capability for fulfilling the duties of safety and protection of islands, offshore installations, and protection of fishermen and marine environment. The six helicopters will add to the existing fleet of the Coast Guard's ALH helicopters. The Indian ALH fleet had come under scrutiny in 2025, after a crash at the Porbandar airport runway in Gujarat. Tragically, all three Coast Guard crew onboard had lost their lives in the mishap. Following this incident, the entire ALH fleet of the Indian Armed Forces were grounded for inspection. While the Army and Air Force fleet of ALH's resumed flying after a grounding period of a few months, the maritime variants(operated by the Navy and Coast Guard) have had a year-long grounding. The contract for the procurement of Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch 'Shtil' missiles and associated missile holding frames, valued at Rs 2,182 crore, has been signed with the Russian Government defence firm JSC Rosoboronexport. The acquisition is intended to enhance the air defence capabilities of frontline warships against a wide spectrum of aerial threats. The Shtil missiles have been operational with Indian frontline warships for well over two decades. These missiles are meant to counter incoming missiles, helicopters, aircraft, among others.

The Indian ALH fleet had come under scrutiny in 2025, after a crash at the Porbandar airport runway in Gujarat. Tragically, all three Coast Guard crew onboard had lost their lives in the mishap

Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships undertaking International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) surveillance in the Northern Bay of Bengal, apprehended three Bangladeshi fishing boats and 79 crew for illegal fishing in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), over the weekend.The ICG said that the Bangladeshi boats were detected as operating well within Indian waters, in violation of Indian law. ICG teams intercepted and boarded the fishing vessels to conduct inspections, following which it was known that the crew did not possess the requisite permits to fish within the Maritime Zones of India. Onboard fishing gear and freshly caught fish confirmed that this was a case of illegal fishing by the Bangladeshi fishermen, ICG said.All three boats and their crew were apprehended by the ICG and escorted to Frazerganj, West Bengal, where they were handed over to the Marine police for further legal action. ICG emphasised the close coordination between itself and West Bengal Police, and that ICG maintains continuous surface and aerial surveillance in the Bay of Bengal to enforce maritime laws and protect national maritime assets.&nbsp;

All three boats and their crew were apprehended by the ICG and escorted to Frazerganj, West Bengal, where they were handed over to the Marine police for further legal action.

Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships undertaking International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) surveillance in the Northern Bay of Bengal, apprehended three Bangladeshi fishing boats and 79 crew for illegal fishing in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), over the weekend. The ICG said that the Bangladeshi boats were detected as operating well within Indian waters, in violation of Indian law. ICG teams intercepted and boarded the fishing vessels to conduct inspections, following which it was known that the crew did not possess the requisite permits to fish within the Maritime Zones of India. Onboard fishing gear and freshly caught fish confirmed that this was a case of illegal fishing by the Bangladeshi fishermen, ICG said. All three boats and their crew were apprehended by the ICG and escorted to Frazerganj, West Bengal, where they were handed over to the Marine police for further legal action. ICG emphasised the close coordination between itself and West Bengal Police, and that ICG maintains continuous surface and aerial surveillance in the Bay of Bengal to enforce maritime laws and protect national maritime assets.

All three boats and their crew were apprehended by the ICG and escorted to Frazerganj, West Bengal, where they were handed over to the Marine police for further legal action.

79 Bangladeshi fishermen, 3 boats apprehended for illegal fishing in Indian waters

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully carried out a long-range medical evacuation of a critically injured Iranian fisherman from the fishing vessel Al-Owais, located in the middle of Arabian Sea, approximately 1500km off Kochi, Kerala. For context, the rescue was conducted in the high seas, approximately midway between Indian and the Horn of Africa.&nbsp;&nbsp;Indian Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), Mumbai received information from MRCC Chabahar, Iran, regarding a medical emergency and engine failure onboard the Iranian fishing vessel Al-Owais. Iranian national Allah Baksh, who was at the helm of the vessel had sustained serious injuries to both eyes and deep lacerations on his right ear following an onboard explosion during fuel transfer to the generator.&nbsp;Considering the life-threatening situation at the high seas,&nbsp; MRCC (Mumbai) immediately activated the International Safety Net (ISN) to alert vessels in the vicinity and initiate coordinated assistance. Further, ICG Ship Sachet, which was on return passage from an overseas deployment to East African countries, was directed to render immediate assistance.&nbsp;Simultaneously, MT STI Grace, a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker enroute from Kuwait to Moroni, Comoros, was diverted in the wee hours of Monday, (Oct 27) to assist the distressed vessel. The tanker successfully rendezvoused with the fishing vessel around 10:00 am hours the same day, embarked the injured sailor, and administered tele-medical first aid and stabilization under guidance from ICG medical personnel.&nbsp;Subsequently, MRCC (Mumbai) directed MT STI Grace to proceed southwest to establish a rendezvous with ICG Ship Sachet for patient transfer and further medical management. The transfer operation was successfully executed in the morning hours of Tuesday, (Oct 28), under challenging sea conditions.&nbsp;The injured fisherman is presently receiving medical treatment onboard ICG Ship Sachet, which is proceeding towards Goa, where the injured would be provided with further medical care.&nbsp;&nbsp;This complex, challenging rescue, demonstrated yet again the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to maritime safety and humanitarian assistance beyond national boundaries. This reaffirms the ICG's role as a credible and reliable maritime search and rescue agency in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), where it coordinates search and rescue across 4.6 million square kilometers. &nbsp;

 Iranian national Allah Baksh, who was at the helm of the vessel had sustained serious injuries to both eyes and deep lacerations on his right ear following an onboard explosion during fuel transfer to the generator.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully carried out a long-range medical evacuation of a critically injured Iranian fisherman from the fishing vessel Al-Owais, located in the middle of Arabian Sea, approximately 1500km off Kochi, Kerala. For context, the rescue was conducted in the high seas, approximately midway between Indian and the Horn of Africa. Indian Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), Mumbai received information from MRCC Chabahar, Iran, regarding a medical emergency and engine failure onboard the Iranian fishing vessel Al-Owais. Iranian national Allah Baksh, who was at the helm of the vessel had sustained serious injuries to both eyes and deep lacerations on his right ear following an onboard explosion during fuel transfer to the generator. Considering the life-threatening situation at the high seas, MRCC (Mumbai) immediately activated the International Safety Net (ISN) to alert vessels in the vicinity and initiate coordinated assistance. Further, ICG Ship Sachet, which was on return passage from an overseas deployment to East African countries, was directed to render immediate assistance. Simultaneously, MT STI Grace, a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker enroute from Kuwait to Moroni, Comoros, was diverted in the wee hours of Monday, (Oct 27) to assist the distressed vessel. The tanker successfully rendezvoused with the fishing vessel around 10:00 am hours the same day, embarked the injured sailor, and administered tele-medical first aid and stabilization under guidance from ICG medical personnel. Subsequently, MRCC (Mumbai) directed MT STI Grace to proceed southwest to establish a rendezvous with ICG Ship Sachet for patient transfer and further medical management. The transfer operation was successfully executed in the morning hours of Tuesday, (Oct 28), under challenging sea conditions. The injured fisherman is presently receiving medical treatment onboard ICG Ship Sachet, which is proceeding towards Goa, where the injured would be provided with further medical care. This complex, challenging rescue, demonstrated yet again the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to maritime safety and humanitarian assistance beyond national boundaries. This reaffirms the ICG's role as a credible and reliable maritime search and rescue agency in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), where it coordinates search and rescue across 4.6 million square kilometers.

&nbsp;Iranian national Allah Baksh, who was at the helm of the vessel had sustained serious injuries to both eyes and deep lacerations on his right ear following an onboard explosion during fuel transfer to the generator.

Indian Coast Guard saves injured Iranian fisher 1,500kms from Indian shores

Indian Coast Guard conducts the 10th National Pollution Response Exercise (NATPOLREX-X) off Chennai to test India’s marine oil spill response and enhance inter-agency coordination.

Indian Coast Guard Conducts 'NATPOLREX' | Tasked To Combat Oil Spills At Sea

Indian Coast Guard conducts the 10th National Pollution Response Exercise (NATPOLREX-X) off Chennai to test India’s marine oil spill response and enhance inter-agency coordination.


Indian Coast Guard is responsible for combating pollution at sea

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is conducting the 10th edition of the country's National Level Pollution Response Exercise (NATPOLREX-X) in conjunction with the 27th National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOSDCP) &amp; Preparedness Meeting on Sunday, 5th and Monday, 6th October, in the Southern Indian city of Chennai. This biennial flagship NATPOLREX is designed to evaluate and enhance India’s national preparedness to respond to marine oil spill incidents, while testing the efficiency of inter-agency coordination as outlined under the NOSDCP.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Will be going aboard Indian Coast Guard Ship Shaurya tomorrow, to bring you reports about how the ICG combats marine oil spills (at sea &amp; ashore).. Every 2 years, ICG holds a National Pollution Response Exercise. This 10th edition is off Chennai- Ships, planes, helicopters... <a href="https://t.co/D8lqkvho5x">pic.twitter.com/D8lqkvho5x</a>&mdash; Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1974762728255586716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The event is expected to witness active participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including central ministries, coastal state governments, major ports, oil handling agencies, and maritime organizations. Significantly, the event will host more than 40 foreign observers from 32 countries and over 100 national delegates, making it a globally relevant forum for marine pollution response.The exercise will be overseen by Director General Paramesh Sivamani, Chief, Indian Coast Guard, and Chairperson, NOSDCP, who will assess the level of preparedness and synergy among the participating agencies.&nbsp;To showcase India’s operational preparedness, the ICG will deploy a comprehensive array of pollution response assets, including ships and aircraft configured for combating maritime pollution. The drills will highlight the multi-tiered response strategy of the ICG and reinforce the importance of coordinated maritime operations involving both national and international partners. The ongoing NATPOLREX stands out as it would involve a demonstration of oil spill cleanup at a beach. Experts say, a litre of oil that reaches the shore would end up creating 100kg of debris and waste, which is why coastal cleanup is a critical aspect of Marine pollution response.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NATPOLREX-X 2025 will reaffirm India’s&nbsp;commitment to marine environmental protection, aligning with the national vision of sustainable development and ecological responsibility. The exercise will further strengthen inter-agency cooperation, promote the adoption of best practices, and set new benchmarks in maritime environmental stewardship, operational readiness, and technological integration.&nbsp;Speaking at the inaugural event, Indian Coast Guard Chief, Director General Paramesh, said that the recent ship accidents off India's West Coast would be examined and analyzed at the NATPOLREX technical sessions. He added that the Indian Coast Guard's response and ability to prevent significant damage to the Kerala coast is testimony to the preparedness and synergy of the Indian forces.&nbsp;&nbsp;He highlighted that the ICG's airborne and seaborne teams braved the harsh southwest monsoon, swiftly rescued distressed crew members, and ensured that the pristine maritime environmental of the Kerala coast remained free from pollution. He was referring to the ICG's response to the sinkage of MSC Elsa 3 in May, and the fire aboard Wan Hai 503 in June, off Kerala.&nbsp;&nbsp;He added that NATPOLREX-X demonstrates India's commitment towards ensuring that all regional partners and friendly foreign nations in the Indo-Pacific can rise up to any contingency related to Marine oil spills. During the technical discussion phase of the event, there would be sessions to understand the nuances of maritime pollution response and preparedness, where delegates discuss issues pertaining to environment protection.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The event is expected to witness active participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including central ministries, coastal state governments, major ports, oil handling agencies, and maritime organizations.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is conducting the 10th edition of the country's National Level Pollution Response Exercise (NATPOLREX-X) in conjunction with the 27th National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOSDCP) & Preparedness Meeting on Sunday, 5th and Monday, 6th October, in the Southern Indian city of Chennai. This biennial flagship NATPOLREX is designed to evaluate and enhance India’s national preparedness to respond to marine oil spill incidents, while testing the efficiency of inter-agency coordination as outlined under the NOSDCP.

The event is expected to witness active participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including central ministries, coastal state governments, major ports, oil handling agencies, and maritime organizations.

Indian Coast Guard to test & validate oil spill combating capabilities off Chennai

In a mid-sea medical emergency evacuation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued an injured crew member from aboard the Belize-flagged cargo vessel MV Haje Nafela that was sailing off India's southeast coast. The 20-year-old Syrian crew member Adbulkader Yahya had sustained a severe head injury while working at the ship's deck, following which he suffered intermittent memory loss and severe contusion on the right eye.&nbsp;According to the Indian Coast Guard, the cargo vessel, which was sailing from Male, Maldives to Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India, had made a medical emergency information at 11am Indian time on Tuesday, 16th September. The vessel was about 200 nautical miles (370 km) off Chennai when the medical evacuation call was made to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre(MRCC), Chennai. Given the proximity to Chennai, the cargo vessel was instructed to proceed towards the southeastern Indian port city, while the ICG's Medical officer provided telemedicine support to stabilize the patient.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the ICG high-speed interceptor boat C-440 with an onboard medical team was deployed to undertake medical evacuation at sea, and the ICG ship Annie Besant was also diverted for assistance. The cargo ship transferred the patient to C-440, while they were 60 nautical miles (111 km) away from Chennai, following which the patient was provided first aid and brought ashore by 2:15pm IST, and later handed over for further treatment. The patient is reported to be stable.

The vessel was about 200 nautical miles (370 km) off Chennai when the medical evacuation call was made to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre(MRCC), Chennai. 

In a mid-sea medical emergency evacuation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued an injured crew member from aboard the Belize-flagged cargo vessel MV Haje Nafela that was sailing off India's southeast coast. The 20-year-old Syrian crew member Adbulkader Yahya had sustained a severe head injury while working at the ship's deck, following which he suffered intermittent memory loss and severe contusion on the right eye. According to the Indian Coast Guard, the cargo vessel, which was sailing from Male, Maldives to Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India, had made a medical emergency information at 11am Indian time on Tuesday, 16th September. The vessel was about 200 nautical miles (370 km) off Chennai when the medical evacuation call was made to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre(MRCC), Chennai. Given the proximity to Chennai, the cargo vessel was instructed to proceed towards the southeastern Indian port city, while the ICG's Medical officer provided telemedicine support to stabilize the patient. Meanwhile, the ICG high-speed interceptor boat C-440 with an onboard medical team was deployed to undertake medical evacuation at sea, and the ICG ship Annie Besant was also diverted for assistance. The cargo ship transferred the patient to C-440, while they were 60 nautical miles (111 km) away from Chennai, following which the patient was provided first aid and brought ashore by 2:15pm IST, and later handed over for further treatment. The patient is reported to be stable.

The vessel was about 200 nautical miles (370 km) off Chennai when the medical evacuation call was made to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre(MRCC), Chennai.&nbsp;

Indian Coast Guard evacuates injured Syrian crew from Cargo ship

A Singapore-flagged container ship, MV Wan Hai 503, caught fire following an explosion off the coast of Beypore in Kozhikode, Kerala, on Monday (June 9). The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.&nbsp;According to the Defence Spokesperson in Kochi, the Indian Navy has diverted frontline warship INS Surat and plans to carry out maritime surveillance using Dornier aircraft from the INS Garuda Naval Air Base in Kochi. Of the 22 crew on the ablaze cargo ship, 18 of them have abandoned the adrift vessel, it was added.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the Indian Coast Guard, they have diverted four vessels to the scene. This includes ICGS Rajdoot, ICGS Arnvesh, ICGS Sachet. Further, a Coast Guard Dornier maritime patrol aircraft is also being deployed.&nbsp;&nbsp;The vessel is a Singapore-flagged container ship, 270 m long and with a draught of 12.5m, with LPC Colombo. The vessel departed Colombo on June 7 and was likely to reach Mumbai on June 10, said the Indian Navy PRO.&nbsp;No confirmed injuries or casualties have been reported so far.&nbsp;This is a developing story.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Quick response by <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> after explosion on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Singapore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Singapore</a> flagged MV <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WANHAI503?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WANHAI503</a>, 130 NM NW of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> coast. ➡️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICG</a> aircraft assessed the scene &amp; dropped air-droppable ➡️ 04 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICG</a> ships diverted for rescue.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaritimeSafety?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaritimeSafety</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SearchAndRescue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SearchAndRescue</a> <a href="https://t.co/xVPEShbU8h">pic.twitter.com/xVPEShbU8h</a>&mdash; Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard/status/1931992672404635671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Cargo ship ablaze off Kerala as Indian Coast Guard and Navy rush to help

A Singapore-flagged container ship, MV Wan Hai 503, caught fire following an explosion off the coast of Beypore in Kozhikode, Kerala, on Monday (June 9). The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation. According to the Defence Spokesperson in Kochi, the Indian Navy has diverted frontline warship INS Surat and plans to carry out maritime surveillance using Dornier aircraft from the INS Garuda Naval Air Base in Kochi. Of the 22 crew on the ablaze cargo ship, 18 of them have abandoned the adrift vessel, it was added. According to the Indian Coast Guard, they have diverted four vessels to the scene. This includes ICGS Rajdoot, ICGS Arnvesh, ICGS Sachet. Further, a Coast Guard Dornier maritime patrol aircraft is also being deployed. The vessel is a Singapore-flagged container ship, 270 m long and with a draught of 12.5m, with LPC Colombo. The vessel departed Colombo on June 7 and was likely to reach Mumbai on June 10, said the Indian Navy PRO. No confirmed injuries or casualties have been reported so far. This is a developing story.

The vessel departed Colombo on June 7 and was expected to reach Mumbai on June 10

Since the morning hours of Sunday, 25th May, when the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MSC ELSA3 sank off the Kerala coast, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) assets have been combating the resultant oil spill and marine pollution. Oil spills are major maritime disasters that have the potential to cause serious damage to the economy and biodiversity of the affected region. Notably, the Kerala coast, which is at direct risk from this marine accident is rich in marine life and is a popular tourist hub.&nbsp;According to the ICG, within 2-3 hours of the cargo vessel’s sinking, their surveillance aircraft detected the presence of an oil slick at the site.Following which, ICG ship Saksham, already on standby in Pollution Response (PR) configuration, was immediately deployed to begin counter-pollution operations. In parallel, a Dornier aircraft was launched for aerial assessment and the dispersal of Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) across a wide area.&nbsp;As of 11 am Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders.&nbsp;Despite the adverse conditions, ICG personnel continued their operations with resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic away from the affected zone. By 2 pm Sunday, the spill was assessed to have spread over an area of approximately two square kilometres.&nbsp;&nbsp;Further, more than 100 containers were observed floating near the site, with some breaking apart and their contents scattered in adjacent waters. Mariners have been issued advisories to maintain a sharp lookout and exercise caution, as metallic shipping containers coming in contact with a vessel’s propeller or other systems could cause serious damage.&nbsp;ICG continues intensive surveillance and spill mitigation through air operations and deployment of Oil Spill Dispersant Chemicals using specialised equipment. Two ICG Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) remain on-site for ongoing monitoring, assessment, and pollution response. In addition, the ICG has mobilised ICG Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response Vessel carrying significant quantities of Oil dispersing chemicals, along with additional OPVs in Pollution Response configuration.&nbsp;On Sunday, a coordination meeting was convened by the Directorate General of Shipping, bringing together key stakeholders including ICG, vessel owners, managers, Kerala state authorities, and others to implement an integrated response strategy. Ship managing firm MSC has appointed T&amp;T Salvage for cleanup and recovery operations, including container and cargo retrieval and oil removal from the wreck.As per directives under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD), Kochi, has issued a warning to the sunken vessel’s owners regarding pollution liability. The ICG has also advised the state administration to prepare for shoreline cleanup operations and to caution local communities against handling any debris or cargo that may wash ashore.

As of 11 am Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders.

Since the morning hours of Sunday, 25th May, when the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MSC ELSA3 sank off the Kerala coast, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) assets have been combating the resultant oil spill and marine pollution. Oil spills are major maritime disasters that have the potential to cause serious damage to the economy and biodiversity of the affected region. Notably, the Kerala coast, which is at direct risk from this marine accident is rich in marine life and is a popular tourist hub. According to the ICG, within 2-3 hours of the cargo vessel’s sinking, their surveillance aircraft detected the presence of an oil slick at the site. Following which, ICG ship Saksham, already on standby in Pollution Response (PR) configuration, was immediately deployed to begin counter-pollution operations. In parallel, a Dornier aircraft was launched for aerial assessment and the dispersal of Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) across a wide area. As of 11 am Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders. Despite the adverse conditions, ICG personnel continued their operations with resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic away from the affected zone. By 2 pm Sunday, the spill was assessed to have spread over an area of approximately two square kilometres. Further, more than 100 containers were observed floating near the site, with some breaking apart and their contents scattered in adjacent waters. Mariners have been issued advisories to maintain a sharp lookout and exercise caution, as metallic shipping containers coming in contact with a vessel’s propeller or other systems could cause serious damage. ICG continues intensive surveillance and spill mitigation through air operations and deployment of Oil Spill Dispersant Chemicals using specialised equipment. Two ICG Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) remain on-site for ongoing monitoring, assessment, and pollution response. In addition, the ICG has mobilised ICG Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response Vessel carrying significant quantities of Oil dispersing chemicals, along with additional OPVs in Pollution Response configuration. On Sunday, a coordination meeting was convened by the Directorate General of Shipping, bringing together key stakeholders including ICG, vessel owners, managers, Kerala state authorities, and others to implement an integrated response strategy. Ship managing firm MSC has appointed T&T Salvage for cleanup and recovery operations, including container and cargo retrieval and oil removal from the wreck. As per directives under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD), Kochi, has issued a warning to the sunken vessel’s owners regarding pollution liability. The ICG has also advised the state administration to prepare for shoreline cleanup operations and to caution local communities against handling any debris or cargo that may wash ashore.

As of 11 am Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders.

Here’s how Indian Coast Guard is cleaning up oil spill off Kerala

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched an extensive pollution response operation to tackle the oil spill generated by the sinking of the Liberian container vessel MV MSC ELSA 3 on May 25, 2025, about 15 nautical miles southwest of Alappuzha, Kerala. Just hours after the vessel submerged completely, ICG surveillance aircraft detected an oil slick at the site, raising environmental concerns.More than 100 containers were spotted floating, with some breaking apart and their contents scattered in adjacent waters.&nbsp;ICG Ship Saksham, which was already stationed in pollution response configuration, was deployed immediately, while an ICG Dornier aircraft conducted aerial assessments and dispersed Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) across the affected zone.By late morning on May 25, the oil slick was spotted drifting east-southeast from the site of the sinking at a speed of 1.5 to 2 knots.&nbsp;&nbsp;The rough seas and strong winds presented challenging conditions for responders, but the ICG personnel continued operations with professionalism and resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic away from the affected zone.&nbsp;To ensure safety, all passing ships have been diverted, and mariners have been warned to navigate cautiously due to floating debris and potential navigation hazards.ICG intensified surveillance and spill mitigation efforts using aerial sorties and specialised dispersal equipment. Two Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) remain on-site for round-the-clock monitoring.&nbsp;In addition, the ICG has mobilised ICG Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response Vessel carrying significant quantities of OSD, along with additional OPVs in PR configuration.&nbsp;The Mercantile Marine Department, Kochi, issued a pollution liability warning to the vessel owners M/s MSC under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958.&nbsp;The MSC appointed T&amp;T Salvage for container recovery, oil removal, and environmental clean-up.The ICG also advised the Kerala state administration to prepare for shoreline clean-up and to alert local communities not to handle any cargo or debris that may wash ashore.The Indian Coast Guard remains committed to ensuring environmental protection, maritime safety, and effective disaster response in collaboration with all stakeholders.

The rough seas and strong winds presented challenging conditions for responders, but the ICG personnel continued operations with professionalism and resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched an extensive pollution response operation to tackle the oil spill generated by the sinking of the Liberian container vessel MV MSC ELSA 3 on May 25, 2025, about 15 nautical miles southwest of Alappuzha, Kerala. Just hours after the vessel submerged completely, ICG surveillance aircraft detected an oil slick at the site, raising environmental concerns. More than 100 containers were spotted floating, with some breaking apart and their contents scattered in adjacent waters. ICG Ship Saksham, which was already stationed in pollution response configuration, was deployed immediately, while an ICG Dornier aircraft conducted aerial assessments and dispersed Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) across the affected zone. By late morning on May 25, the oil slick was spotted drifting east-southeast from the site of the sinking at a speed of 1.5 to 2 knots. The rough seas and strong winds presented challenging conditions for responders, but the ICG personnel continued operations with professionalism and resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic away from the affected zone. To ensure safety, all passing ships have been diverted, and mariners have been warned to navigate cautiously due to floating debris and potential navigation hazards. ICG intensified surveillance and spill mitigation efforts using aerial sorties and specialised dispersal equipment. Two Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) remain on-site for round-the-clock monitoring. In addition, the ICG has mobilised ICG Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response Vessel carrying significant quantities of OSD, along with additional OPVs in PR configuration. The Mercantile Marine Department, Kochi, issued a pollution liability warning to the vessel owners M/s MSC under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958. The MSC appointed T&T Salvage for container recovery, oil removal, and environmental clean-up. The ICG also advised the Kerala state administration to prepare for shoreline clean-up and to alert local communities not to handle any cargo or debris that may wash ashore. The Indian Coast Guard remains committed to ensuring environmental protection, maritime safety, and effective disaster response in collaboration with all stakeholders.

The rough seas and strong winds presented challenging conditions for responders, but the ICG personnel continued operations with professionalism and resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic.

Indian Coast Guard tackles oil slick after Liberian vessel sinks off Kerala coast

MSC ELSA 3, a 184-metre-long cargo ship that was facing a dangerous situation at sea, approximately 70 kms off the southwestern Indian city of Kochi, Kerala, has sunk. The Liberia-flagged container vessel was sailing on a day-long voyage between two ports in Kerala – from Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram, to Kochi – when it began to tilt sideways at noon on Saturday (May 24). All 24 crew members of the cargo ship have been rescued by the Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy.Of the 640 containers carried by the sunken vessel, 13 contained hazardous cargo, and 12 contained calcium carbide. The ship had in its tanks 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil. The ICG is gearing up&nbsp; to tackle an oil or chemical spill risk scenario, if any. ICG ship Saksham, with pollution response equipment, has been positioned at the scene.The sensitive coast of Kerala is home to both a vivid biodiversity and is a major tourist hotspot. ICG has geared up pollution response preparedness and coordination with the State administration for all possible scenarios. ICG aircraft with advanced oil spill mapping technology is undertaking an assessment of the situation. "Presently, no oil spill has been reported," ICG said.According to the Indian Coast Guard, at around 1:25 pm Saturday, the shipping company MSC's officials intimated Indian authorities regarding the cargo vessel that was taking in water and tilted significantly. The shipping firm requested immediate assistance. In response, the Indian Coast Guard deployed two ships and its Dornier short-range maritime patrol aircraft. An Indian Navy vessel was also part of the operation. Videos and pictures from Saturday shared by the Indian Coast Guard show the vessel tilted to one side. At present, the reasons that have led to this flooding and eventual sinking are not known.India's shipping authorities and the Coast Guard had issued directives to the ship managers to provide urgent salvage services for the vessel. It is learnt that the vessel's 24 crew members comprised a Russian, a Georgian, two Ukrainians, and 20 Filipinos.&nbsp;

Of the 640 containers carried by the sunken vessel, 13 contained hazardous cargo, and 12 contained calcium carbide. The ship had in its tanks 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil. 

MSC ELSA 3, a 184-metre-long cargo ship that was facing a dangerous situation at sea, approximately 70 kms off the southwestern Indian city of Kochi, Kerala, has sunk. The Liberia-flagged container vessel was sailing on a day-long voyage between two ports in Kerala – from Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram, to Kochi – when it began to tilt sideways at noon on Saturday (May 24). All 24 crew members of the cargo ship have been rescued by the Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy. Of the 640 containers carried by the sunken vessel, 13 contained hazardous cargo, and 12 contained calcium carbide. The ship had in its tanks 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil. The ICG is gearing up to tackle an oil or chemical spill risk scenario, if any. ICG ship Saksham, with pollution response equipment, has been positioned at the scene. The sensitive coast of Kerala is home to both a vivid biodiversity and is a major tourist hotspot. ICG has geared up pollution response preparedness and coordination with the State administration for all possible scenarios. ICG aircraft with advanced oil spill mapping technology is undertaking an assessment of the situation. "Presently, no oil spill has been reported," ICG said. According to the Indian Coast Guard, at around 1:25 pm Saturday, the shipping company MSC's officials intimated Indian authorities regarding the cargo vessel that was taking in water and tilted significantly. The shipping firm requested immediate assistance. In response, the Indian Coast Guard deployed two ships and its Dornier short-range maritime patrol aircraft. An Indian Navy vessel was also part of the operation. Videos and pictures from Saturday shared by the Indian Coast Guard show the vessel tilted to one side. At present, the reasons that have led to this flooding and eventual sinking are not known. India's shipping authorities and the Coast Guard had issued directives to the ship managers to provide urgent salvage services for the vessel. It is learnt that the vessel's 24 crew members comprised a Russian, a Georgian, two Ukrainians, and 20 Filipinos.

Of the 640 containers carried by the sunken vessel, 13 contained hazardous cargo, and 12 contained calcium carbide. The ship had in its tanks 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil.&nbsp;

Large cargo ship sinks off Kochi; Oil and chemical spill risk persists

MSC ELSA 3, a 184-metre-long cargo ship, faces the risk of sinking in the sea, approximately 70 km off the southwestern Indian city of Kochi, Kerala. The Liberia-flagged container vessel was sailing on a day-long voyage between two ports in Kerala, from Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram to Kochi, when it began to tilt sideways at noon, Saturday, 24th May. At the time of writing this report, 21 crew members have been rescued, while the ship’s Captain, Chief Engineer, and 2nd Engineer remain on board for salvage operations.&nbsp;According to the Indian Coast Guard, at around 1:25 pm Saturday, the shipping company MSC’s officials intimated Indian authorities regarding the cargo vessel that was taking in water and tilted significantly and requested immediate assistance. In response, the Indian Coast Guard deployed two ships and its Dornier short-range maritime patrol aircraft. It is learnt that an Indian Navy vessel is also on scene. Videos and pictures shared by the Indian Coast Guard show the vessel tilted to one side. At present, the reasons that have led to this risky situation are not known.&nbsp;&nbsp;India’s shipping authorities and the Coast Guard have issued directives to the ship managers for providing urgent salvage services for the vessel.&nbsp;While the exact type of cargo being carried by the distressed vessel remains unknown, a few containers are understood to have fallen. Further, it is learnt that the vessel’s 24 crew members comprised a Russian, a Georgian, two Ukrainians, and 20 Filipinos. The 21 rescued crew members are being provided medical assistance on board the Coast Guard vessel.

At around 1:25 pm on Saturday, the shipping company’s officials intimated Indian authorities regarding the cargo vessel that was taking in water and requested immediate assistance. In response, the Indian Coast Guard deployed two ships and its Dornier short-range maritime patrol aircraft.

MSC ELSA 3, a 184-metre-long cargo ship, faces the risk of sinking in the sea, approximately 70 km off the southwestern Indian city of Kochi, Kerala. The Liberia-flagged container vessel was sailing on a day-long voyage between two ports in Kerala, from Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram to Kochi, when it began to tilt sideways at noon, Saturday, 24th May. At the time of writing this report, 21 crew members have been rescued, while the ship’s Captain, Chief Engineer, and 2nd Engineer remain on board for salvage operations. According to the Indian Coast Guard, at around 1:25 pm Saturday, the shipping company MSC’s officials intimated Indian authorities regarding the cargo vessel that was taking in water and tilted significantly and requested immediate assistance. In response, the Indian Coast Guard deployed two ships and its Dornier short-range maritime patrol aircraft. It is learnt that an Indian Navy vessel is also on scene. Videos and pictures shared by the Indian Coast Guard show the vessel tilted to one side. At present, the reasons that have led to this risky situation are not known. India’s shipping authorities and the Coast Guard have issued directives to the ship managers for providing urgent salvage services for the vessel. While the exact type of cargo being carried by the distressed vessel remains unknown, a few containers are understood to have fallen. Further, it is learnt that the vessel’s 24 crew members comprised a Russian, a Georgian, two Ukrainians, and 20 Filipinos. The 21 rescued crew members are being provided medical assistance on board the Coast Guard vessel.

At around 1:25 pm on Saturday, the shipping company’s officials intimated Indian authorities regarding the cargo vessel that was taking in water and requested immediate assistance. In response, the Indian Coast Guard deployed two ships and its Dornier short-range maritime patrol aircraft.

Massive cargo ship faces risk of sinking off Kochi; rescue ops underway

A tragic helicopter crash during a training exercise in Gujarat results in the deaths of three Indian Coast Guard personnel.

Indian coast guard helicopter crashes in Gujarat, three dead during training exercise

A tragic helicopter crash during a training sortie in Gujarat's Porbandar results in the deaths of three Indian Coast Guard personnel.

Indian coast guard helicopter crashes in Gujarat, three dead during training

The Indian Coast Guard said Thursday (Dec 5) in a press release that it had rescued 12 people from a sunken vessel from the North Arabian Sea in a mission that saw close collaboration with Pakistan’s Maritime Security Agency (MSA).

The 12 crew members were aboard the Indian vessel MSV Al Piranpir, which was travelling from Porbandar port in India’s Gujarat to Bandar Abbas port in Iran.

However, on Wednesday, the Indian vessel sank outside Indian waters but within Pakistan’s search and rescue region.

"This humanitarian search and rescue mission saw a close collaboration between the Indian Coast Guard and PMSA, with both nations' maritime rescue coordination centres (MRCC) maintaining continuous communication throughout the operation," the press release said.

The vessel is believed to have faced rough seas and then flooding, due to which it sank in the early hours of Wednesday. The ship made the distress call to the Indian Coast Guard's MRCC, Mumbai, which promptly alerted the ICG regional headquarters (North West) in Gandhinagar.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj0m-muipCKAxWnkq8BHeu0JM4QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-helps-in-maintenance-of-maldives-mauritius-coast-guard-vessels-778799" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-helps-in-maintenance-of-maldives-mauritius-coast-guard-vessels-778799&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0m-muipCKAxWnkq8BHeu0JM4QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Indian Navy helps in maintenance of Maldives, Mauritius Coast Guard vessels</a>

The ICG deployed its Sarthak vessel to carry out the operation and an alert was also sent to MRCC Pakistan. The ICG statement added that Pakistan MSA swiftly provided required assistance.

All crew members had taken shelter in a small dinghy and they were located approximately 270 km west of Dwarka, within Pakistan's search and rescue region. The search operation by the ICG was launched with support from a PMSA aircraft and the merchant ship MV Cosco Glory.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj0m-muipCKAxWnkq8BHeu0JM4QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-five-week-air-sea-op-indian-coast-guard-recovers-mortal-remains-of-missing-pilot-766554" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-five-week-air-sea-op-indian-coast-guard-recovers-mortal-remains-of-missing-pilot-766554&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0m-muipCKAxWnkq8BHeu0JM4QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">After five-week air-sea op, Indian Coast Guard recover mortal remains of missing pilot</a>

The rescued people were then examined by doctors aboard Sarthak. ICG statement said all of them were being transported back to Gujarat’s Porbandar harbour.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Coast Guard said Thursday (Dec 5) in a press release that it had rescued 12 people from a sunken vessel from the North Arabian Sea in a mission that saw close collaboration with Pakistan’s Maritime Security Agency (MSA).

The Indian Coast Guard said Thursday (Dec 5) in a press release that it had rescued 12 people from a sunken vessel from the North Arabian Sea in a mission that saw close collaboration with Pakistan’s Maritime Security Agency (MSA). The 12 crew members were aboard the Indian vessel MSV Al Piranpir, which was travelling from Porbandar port in India’s Gujarat to Bandar Abbas port in Iran. However, on Wednesday, the Indian vessel sank outside Indian waters but within Pakistan’s search and rescue region. "This humanitarian search and rescue mission saw a close collaboration between the Indian Coast Guard and PMSA, with both nations' maritime rescue coordination centres (MRCC) maintaining continuous communication throughout the operation," the press release said. The vessel is believed to have faced rough seas and then flooding, due to which it sank in the early hours of Wednesday. The ship made the distress call to the Indian Coast Guard's MRCC, Mumbai, which promptly alerted the ICG regional headquarters (North West) in Gandhinagar. Also read: Indian Navy helps in maintenance of Maldives, Mauritius Coast Guard vessels The ICG deployed its Sarthak vessel to carry out the operation and an alert was also sent to MRCC Pakistan. The ICG statement added that Pakistan MSA swiftly provided required assistance. All crew members had taken shelter in a small dinghy and they were located approximately 270 km west of Dwarka, within Pakistan's search and rescue region. The search operation by the ICG was launched with support from a PMSA aircraft and the merchant ship MV Cosco Glory. Also read: After five-week air-sea op, Indian Coast Guard recover mortal remains of missing pilot The rescued people were then examined by doctors aboard Sarthak. ICG statement said all of them were being transported back to Gujarat’s Porbandar harbour. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Coast Guard rescues 12 Indian crew from Arabian Sea with help from Pakistan agency

A boat repairman was detained from the western Indian state of Gujarat for passing sensitive information about the movement of Indian Coast Guard vessels to operatives in Pakistan, Indian&nbsp;officials revealed Friday (Nov 29).

Gujarat’s Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) arrested Dipesh Gohil, a resident of Arambhada village in Okha Mandal taluka of Dev Bhoomi Dwarka district, on the charges of criminal conspiracy and waging war against the government under sections 61 and 147 respectively of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

<h2>Pak operative contacted through Facebook</h2>

According to Indian officials, the repairman was contacted by a Pakistani agent, named Sahima, on Facebook. The operative told Gohil that she worked with the Pakistani Navy and would pay him INR 200 per day ($2.3/day) if he provided info about the names and number of Coast Guard ships arriving at the Okha jetty and their movement.

Officials revealed that the repairman was paid about $500 over the last seven months. The amount was transferred to the bank accounts of three of Gohil’s friends as the repairman didn’t have one of his own.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjE7924iYKKAxXRSWwGHdGPFQkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-helps-in-maintenance-of-maldives-mauritius-coast-guard-vessels-778799" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-helps-in-maintenance-of-maldives-mauritius-coast-guard-vessels-778799&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjE7924iYKKAxXRSWwGHdGPFQkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Indian Navy helps in maintenance of Maldives, Mauritius Coast Guard vessels</a>

“Gohel was aware of what kind of information he was sharing and with whom. He knew this was illegal. Based on our initial investigation, it seems he did it for money. He routinely gave information about the coastguard ships and where they were stationed,” said Virjit Parmar, deputy superintendent of police, Gujarat ATS.

<h2>Why is Okha&nbsp;sensitive?</h2>

Okha is placed in a strategic location, being at the westernmost tip of the Devbhoomi Dwarka district and serving as a gateway to Beyt Dwarka Island. The Okha port holds extreme significance, owing to the heavy maritime traffic, fishing activities and proximity to Pakistan’s coastline. An Indian Navy base is also located in the area, further underlying the sensitivity of the movement of security assets.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjE7924iYKKAxXRSWwGHdGPFQkQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-meth-seized-from-myanmarese-boat-costs-more-than-aircraft-carrier-vikrant-779201" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-meth-seized-from-myanmarese-boat-costs-more-than-aircraft-carrier-vikrant-779201&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjE7924iYKKAxXRSWwGHdGPFQkQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">India: Meth seized from Myanmarese boat costs more than aircraft carrier Vikrant, built at a cost of $2.49bn</a>

The repairman had been working at the site for the last three years.

(With inputs from agencies)

A boat repairman was detained from the western Indian state of Gujarat for passing sensitive information about the movement of Indian Coast Guard vessels to operatives in Pakistan, Indian officials revealed Friday (Nov 29).

A boat repairman was detained from the western Indian state of Gujarat for passing sensitive information about the movement of Indian Coast Guard vessels to operatives in Pakistan, Indian officials revealed Friday (Nov 29). Gujarat’s Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) arrested Dipesh Gohil, a resident of Arambhada village in Okha Mandal taluka of Dev Bhoomi Dwarka district, on the charges of criminal conspiracy and waging war against the government under sections 61 and 147 respectively of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Pak operative contacted through Facebook According to Indian officials, the repairman was contacted by a Pakistani agent, named Sahima, on Facebook. The operative told Gohil that she worked with the Pakistani Navy and would pay him INR 200 per day ($2.3/day) if he provided info about the names and number of Coast Guard ships arriving at the Okha jetty and their movement. Officials revealed that the repairman was paid about $500 over the last seven months. The amount was transferred to the bank accounts of three of Gohil’s friends as the repairman didn’t have one of his own. Also read: Indian Navy helps in maintenance of Maldives, Mauritius Coast Guard vessels “Gohel was aware of what kind of information he was sharing and with whom. He knew this was illegal. Based on our initial investigation, it seems he did it for money. He routinely gave information about the coastguard ships and where they were stationed,” said Virjit Parmar, deputy superintendent of police, Gujarat ATS. Why is Okha sensitive? Okha is placed in a strategic location, being at the westernmost tip of the Devbhoomi Dwarka district and serving as a gateway to Beyt Dwarka Island. The Okha port holds extreme significance, owing to the heavy maritime traffic, fishing activities and proximity to Pakistan’s coastline. An Indian Navy base is also located in the area, further underlying the sensitivity of the movement of security assets. Also read: India: Meth seized from Myanmarese boat costs more than aircraft carrier Vikrant, built at a cost of $2.49bn The repairman had been working at the site for the last three years. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian man detained for leaking sensitive info to Pakistan Navy for $2 a day

Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to sign an executive order that would bar transgender individuals from serving in the military, potentially as early as his first day back in office.

Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to sign an executive order that would bar transgender individuals from serving in the military, potentially as early as his first day back in office. The order, expected to follow his inauguration on 20 January, would also result in the medical discharge of thousands of currently serving transgender personnel. As per a report by The Sunday Times, defence sources estimate that approximately 15,000 transgender service members could be medically discharged, effectively deeming them unfit for military duty. This comes as Trump continues to criticise what he calls “woke” policies in the armed forces, claiming some senior officers prioritise diversity and inclusion over military readiness. Also read: 'Israel, Lebanon on verge of ceasefire deal to end Israel-Hezbollah conflict' A source cited by the report said that transgender people will be "forced out at a time when the military can’t recruit enough people.” They added that only the Marine Corps is meeting recruitment targets and warned that some of the ones likely to be affected hold senior roles. The report follows Trump’s nomination of Pete Hegseth, a former major in the US National Guard and Fox News host, as his defence secretary. Hegseth has been outspoken in his criticism of what he terms “weak” leadership in the military. In his recent book, he called for “housecleaning” within the ranks and called the medical care provided to transgender personnel an unnecessary expense for the Pentagon. This would not be Trump’s first move against transgender individuals in the military. During his first term, he declared that transgender people would no longer be allowed to serve, citing “tremendous medical costs and disruption.” That policy, announced by Trump in 2017, came into effect in 2019 before being reversed by President Joe Biden. Biden’s reversal allowed transgender individuals to serve once more, but Trump is now expected to not only reinstate the ban but go further by discharging those currently serving. Also read: From picking Vance to blocking Pompeo, Trump junior is calling shots in US transition process This anticipated executive order is just one of many actions Trump plans to take upon returning to office. His proposed measures include significant changes to immigration policies and other controversial initiatives likely to face strong opposition. During his campaign, Trump vowed to roll back civil rights protections for LGBT+ individuals, block transgender students from participating in sports or using facilities aligned with their gender, and ban gender-affirming healthcare for transgender youth across the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Navy, Coast Guard, NDRF on alert over brewing Cyclone Fengal

In their 47-year history, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) seized a total of 12.85 tonnes&nbsp;of narcotic substances, nearly half of which (6 tonnes) was seized this week from a single Myanmarese fishing vessel that was lurking in the Andaman Sea, in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This unprecedented haul of Crystal Methamphetamine (valued at Rs. 27,500 crore or $USD 3.27 billion, as per modest estimates) was made after a coordinated air-sea operation amid rough seas, while a potential cyclonic storm brewed in the Bay of Bengal, off India's southeast coast.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In their 47yrs of service, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianCoastGuard?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianCoastGuard</a> has seized total 12.85tons of drugs(all kinds) 
 
Of this 12.85tons, almost half(6tons) was seized yesterday from a single <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Myanmar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Myanmar</a> origin fishing boat 
 
Let that sink in! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianOcean?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianOcean</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/drugs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#drugs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/maritime?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#maritime</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/smuggling?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#smuggling</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meth?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meth</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/trade?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#trade</a> <a href="https://t.co/VGFLEYxl14">pic.twitter.com/VGFLEYxl14</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1861421419848179880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As per conservative estimates, Meth is valued at Rs. 5 crore/kg ($0.58 million/kg), which puts the latest seizure value at Rs. 27,500 crore ($3 billion). For perspective, this sum (Rs. 27,500 crore) is more than the cost of the Indian indigenous Aircraft Carrier INS Vikrant (approx Rs. 21,000cr), the biggest and most sophisticated surface warship built in India. Rs. 27,000crore is also more than twice the annual budget of the Indian Space agency ISRO (which hovers around Rs. 12,500 crore/year). Some estimates say that Meth costs Rs. 10 crore/kg or more.

The record-breaking haul underscores India’s growing role in combating transnational drug trafficking and highlights the complexities of safeguarding the nation’s maritime borders. This haul gains also significance because it took place in an extremely challenging and vast geography, where there are more than 550 islands as part of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. This operation, conducted over two days, involved the ICG's air and sea assets working in perfect coordination to intercept the foreign vessel.

<h2>Rampant flow of drugs from India's immediate neighbourhood&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

India’s strategic location&nbsp;between the Golden Crescent (Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran) and the Golden Triangle (Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand)—two of the world’s largest illicit opium-producing regions, has made it a transit and consumption hub. The aforementioned regions in India's vicinity feed a network of transnational crime syndicates that use land and maritime routes to smuggle contraband across borders.&nbsp;

The maritime domain, with its vast stretches of unpatrolled waters, presents unique challenges for enforcement agencies. Smugglers exploit these routes using sophisticated techniques and technology, such as satellite communication and unregistered vessels, to avoid detection.&nbsp;

<h2>Presence of Myanmarese vessels in Andaman Sea &amp; ICG's heightened vigil&nbsp;</h2>

Recent incidents of Myanmarese/Rohingya fishing vessels poaching in the Andaman Seas, within the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone, have led to heightened vigil by Indian agencies. According to the Indian Coast Guard, the Andaman Seas were kept under strict surveillance owing to recent inputs from the joint interrogation of an apprehended poacher.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi5tpPvr_qJAxXqQfUHHThQKucQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-largest-drug-bust-5-tons-meth-seized-by-coast-guard-off-andamans-778983" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-largest-drug-bust-5-tons-meth-seized-by-coast-guard-off-andamans-778983&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi5tpPvr_qJAxXqQfUHHThQKucQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">India`s largest drug bust: 5 tonnes of Meth seized by Coast Guard off Andamans</a>

This operation is ICG's third major anti-narcotics breakthrough in the Andaman Sea in recent years. In September 2019, the ICG apprehended a Myanmarese vessel carrying 1,160 kilogramme&nbsp;of ketamine worth Rs. 300 crore ($33.5 million). Three months later, another boat was intercepted with 371 kg&nbsp;of methaqualone valued at&nbsp;Rs. 185 crore ($20.7 million). These operations reflect the increasing reliance of drug cartels on maritime routes to evade land-based enforcement.&nbsp;

<h2>Recap of the latest operation</h2>

The operation began on Saturday, November 23, when a routine surveillance flight by an ICG Dornier-228 aircraft detected an unidentified fishing boat in the Andaman Sea, within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Recognizing the potential threat, ICG swiftly launched a coordinated response and tasked fast patrol vessel ICGS Aruna Asaf Ali from Sri Vijaya Puram (formerly Port Blair). Tracking the suspicious boat for hours, the ICG maintained overnight surveillance in preparation for a VBSS (Visit, Board, Search and Seize) operation at dawn. On Sunday, November 24, at 6:30 AM, the crew intercepted the vessel, later identified as ‘Soe Wai Yan Htoo’, registered in Myanmar.&nbsp;

Manned by six crew members, the boat was carrying several gunny sacks, giving rise to suspicion. Thereafter, the vessel was towed to Sri Vijaya Puram harbor for a thorough investigation, where authorities uncovered 222 bags filled with crystalline methamphetamine, weighing a total of 6,016.87 kg. In addition to the drugs, the ICG seized an INMARSAT satellite phone and Myanmar currency worth 633,850 Kyat (approx Rs. 25,000).&nbsp;

In their 47-year history, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) seized a total of 12.85 tonnes of narcotic substances, nearly half of which (6 tonnes) was seized this week from a single Myanmarese fishing vessel that was lurking in the Andaman Sea, in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

In their 47-year history, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) seized a total of 12.85 tonnes of narcotic substances, nearly half of which (6 tonnes) was seized this week from a single Myanmarese fishing vessel that was lurking in the Andaman Sea, in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This unprecedented haul of Crystal Methamphetamine (valued at Rs. 27,500 crore or $USD 3.27 billion, as per modest estimates) was made after a coordinated air-sea operation amid rough seas, while a potential cyclonic storm brewed in the Bay of Bengal, off India's southeast coast. In their 47yrs of service, the #IndianCoastGuard has seized total 12.85tons of drugs(all kinds) Of this 12.85tons, almost half(6tons) was seized yesterday from a single #Myanmar origin fishing boat Let that sink in! #IndianOcean #drugs #maritime #smuggling #Meth #trade pic.twitter.com/VGFLEYxl14 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) November 26, 2024 × As per conservative estimates, Meth is valued at Rs. 5 crore/kg ($0.58 million/kg), which puts the latest seizure value at Rs. 27,500 crore ($3 billion). For perspective, this sum (Rs. 27,500 crore) is more than the cost of the Indian indigenous Aircraft Carrier INS Vikrant (approx Rs. 21,000cr), the biggest and most sophisticated surface warship built in India. Rs. 27,000crore is also more than twice the annual budget of the Indian Space agency ISRO (which hovers around Rs. 12,500 crore/year). Some estimates say that Meth costs Rs. 10 crore/kg or more. The record-breaking haul underscores India’s growing role in combating transnational drug trafficking and highlights the complexities of safeguarding the nation’s maritime borders. This haul gains also significance because it took place in an extremely challenging and vast geography, where there are more than 550 islands as part of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. This operation, conducted over two days, involved the ICG's air and sea assets working in perfect coordination to intercept the foreign vessel. Rampant flow of drugs from India's immediate neighbourhood India’s strategic location between the Golden Crescent (Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran) and the Golden Triangle (Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand)—two of the world’s largest illicit opium-producing regions, has made it a transit and consumption hub. The aforementioned regions in India's vicinity feed a network of transnational crime syndicates that use land and maritime routes to smuggle contraband across borders. The maritime domain, with its vast stretches of unpatrolled waters, presents unique challenges for enforcement agencies. Smugglers exploit these routes using sophisticated techniques and technology, such as satellite communication and unregistered vessels, to avoid detection. Presence of Myanmarese vessels in Andaman Sea & ICG's heightened vigil Recent incidents of Myanmarese/Rohingya fishing vessels poaching in the Andaman Seas, within the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone, have led to heightened vigil by Indian agencies. According to the Indian Coast Guard, the Andaman Seas were kept under strict surveillance owing to recent inputs from the joint interrogation of an apprehended poacher. Also read: India`s largest drug bust: 5 tonnes of Meth seized by Coast Guard off Andamans This operation is ICG's third major anti-narcotics breakthrough in the Andaman Sea in recent years. In September 2019, the ICG apprehended a Myanmarese vessel carrying 1,160 kilogramme of ketamine worth Rs. 300 crore ($33.5 million). Three months later, another boat was intercepted with 371 kg of methaqualone valued at Rs. 185 crore ($20.7 million). These operations reflect the increasing reliance of drug cartels on maritime routes to evade land-based enforcement. Recap of the latest operation The operation began on Saturday, November 23, when a routine surveillance flight by an ICG Dornier-228 aircraft detected an unidentified fishing boat in the Andaman Sea, within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Recognizing the potential threat, ICG swiftly launched a coordinated response and tasked fast patrol vessel ICGS Aruna Asaf Ali from Sri Vijaya Puram (formerly Port Blair). Tracking the suspicious boat for hours, the ICG maintained overnight surveillance in preparation for a VBSS (Visit, Board, Search and Seize) operation at dawn. On Sunday, November 24, at 6:30 AM, the crew intercepted the vessel, later identified as ‘Soe Wai Yan Htoo’, registered in Myanmar. Manned by six crew members, the boat was carrying several gunny sacks, giving rise to suspicion. Thereafter, the vessel was towed to Sri Vijaya Puram harbor for a thorough investigation, where authorities uncovered 222 bags filled with crystalline methamphetamine, weighing a total of 6,016.87 kg. In addition to the drugs, the ICG seized an INMARSAT satellite phone and Myanmar currency worth 633,850 Kyat (approx Rs. 25,000).

Seized Myanmarese boat carried as much drugs as ICG confiscated in 47 years

In a coordinated air-sea operation, the Indian Coast Guard has seized more than five tonnes of synthetic narcotic contraband (initial testing indicates Methamphetamine), off the Andaman and Nicobar islands. The suspicious foreign-origin fishing vessel was identified and tracked by an Indian Coast Guard Dornier-228 maritime surveillance aircraft, following which fast patrol vessels were tasked to intercept and apprehend it. Watch in for more details!

5 Tonnes of Meth Seized by Coast Guard Off Andamans

India: Over Five Tonnes of Drugs Seized in Andaman Sea

Indian Coast Guards Seizes Nearly Five Tonnes of Drugs in Andaman

Indian Coast Guards Seizes Nearly Five Tonnes Of Contraband

In a coordinated air-sea operation, the Indian Coast Guard has seized more than five tonnes of synthetic narcotic contraband (initial testing indicates Methamphetamine), off the Andaman and Nicobar islands, WION has learnt. The suspicious foreign-origin fishing vessel was identified and tracked by an Indian Coast Guard Dornier-228 maritime surveillance aircraft, following which fast patrol vessels were tasked to intercept and apprehend it.&nbsp;

The foreign-origin vessel with six foreign crew members was apprehended in the Andaman Sea in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone and has been taken to Port Blair for further investigation. Port Blair houses the Joint Command of the Indian Armed Forces, which is the country's only tri-services(Army, Navy, Air Force) command, and the regional headquarters of the Indian Coast Guard's Andaman and Nicobar Command.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-was-a-stupid-idea-ex-british-soldier-captured-in-russia-while-fighting-for-ukraine-report-778948">Ex-British soldier captured in Russia while fighting for Ukraine: Report</a>

There are more than 550 islands of varying sizes in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, making it a highly challenging region to monitor for illegal activities. The latest seizure of contraband comes barely a few days after India conducted its largest-ever Maritime Security drill - Exercise Sea Vigil-2024. The exercise involved the Indian tri-services, six central ministries, and 21 law enforcement agencies from the state and central levels.&nbsp;

The latest operation was carried out amid harsh weather at sea, owing to the storm that is brewing in the Bay of Bengal, off India's East Coast.&nbsp;According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the&nbsp;well-marked low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining East Equatorial Indian Ocean concentrated into a depression at 8.30 am Indian Standard Time, Monday, 25th November. In Meteorological parlance, depression is associated with stormy weather, gusty winds, and rough sea conditions.&nbsp;

This is the single largest contraband seizure in the nearly five-decades-long history of the Indian Coast Guard, which has been at the forefront of maritime law enforcement in India's Exclusive Economic Zone that is spread across 2.4 million square kilometres.&nbsp;For context, the Indian Coast Guard's annual seizure of contraband (all kinds of drugs) usually hovers between 1-1.5 tonnes. However, in the latest operation, 5 tonnes were seized in a single day, from a single vessel, making it unprecedented.&nbsp;

Based on estimates from previous Meth seizures, it can be said that the latest Meth consignment weighing more than 5 tonnes could have a market value running into billions of US dollars (far exceeding Rs 8400 cr).

In a coordinated air-sea operation, the Indian Coast Guard has seized more than five tonnes of synthetic narcotic contraband (initial testing indicates Methamphetamine), off the Andaman and Nicobar islands, WION has learnt.

In a coordinated air-sea operation, the Indian Coast Guard has seized more than five tonnes of synthetic narcotic contraband (initial testing indicates Methamphetamine), off the Andaman and Nicobar islands, WION has learnt. The suspicious foreign-origin fishing vessel was identified and tracked by an Indian Coast Guard Dornier-228 maritime surveillance aircraft, following which fast patrol vessels were tasked to intercept and apprehend it. The foreign-origin vessel with six foreign crew members was apprehended in the Andaman Sea in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone and has been taken to Port Blair for further investigation. Port Blair houses the Joint Command of the Indian Armed Forces, which is the country's only tri-services(Army, Navy, Air Force) command, and the regional headquarters of the Indian Coast Guard's Andaman and Nicobar Command. Also read: Ex-British soldier captured in Russia while fighting for Ukraine: Report There are more than 550 islands of varying sizes in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, making it a highly challenging region to monitor for illegal activities. The latest seizure of contraband comes barely a few days after India conducted its largest-ever Maritime Security drill - Exercise Sea Vigil-2024. The exercise involved the Indian tri-services, six central ministries, and 21 law enforcement agencies from the state and central levels. The latest operation was carried out amid harsh weather at sea, owing to the storm that is brewing in the Bay of Bengal, off India's East Coast. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the well-marked low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining East Equatorial Indian Ocean concentrated into a depression at 8.30 am Indian Standard Time, Monday, 25th November. In Meteorological parlance, depression is associated with stormy weather, gusty winds, and rough sea conditions. This is the single largest contraband seizure in the nearly five-decades-long history of the Indian Coast Guard, which has been at the forefront of maritime law enforcement in India's Exclusive Economic Zone that is spread across 2.4 million square kilometres. For context, the Indian Coast Guard's annual seizure of contraband (all kinds of drugs) usually hovers between 1-1.5 tonnes. However, in the latest operation, 5 tonnes were seized in a single day, from a single vessel, making it unprecedented. Based on estimates from previous Meth seizures, it can be said that the latest Meth consignment weighing more than 5 tonnes could have a market value running into billions of US dollars (far exceeding Rs 8400 cr).

India's largest drug bust: 5 tonnes of Meth seized by Coast Guard off Andamans

The Indian Coast Guard conducted a regional-level Pollution Response Exercise, validating and demonstrating the preparedness of various stakeholders in dealing with oil and chemical spills at sea. The Exercise was held between Tuesday (Nov 12) and Thursday (Nov 14) at Paradip, Odisha.&nbsp;

The participating agencies were Paradip Port Authority, Dhamra Port, Gopalpur Port, BPCL, HPCL, IOCL and Odisha State Pollution Control Board.

The three-day exercise included professional presentations, discussions and mock drills onboard ICG Ships at sea, off Paradip. This elaborate scenario-based exercise provided valuable insights and an effective response strategy for addressing oil spills along the sensitive coasts.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiEnoK679uJAxX8R2wGHTcSKv4QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-faces-severe-smog-as-aqi-soars-to-428-will-grap-3-be-enforced-primary-schools-shut-details-here-776054" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-faces-severe-smog-as-aqi-soars-to-428-will-grap-3-be-enforced-primary-schools-shut-details-here-776054&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiEnoK679uJAxX8R2wGHTcSKv4QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Delhi faces severe smog as AQI soars to 428. Will GRAP 3 be enforced, primary schools shut? Details here</a>

During Pollution Response Exercises, the Coast Guard and relevant stakeholders simulate an oil spill at sea and deploy air and sea assets to contain the spill within a limited area. Subsequently, they disperse chemicals to counter and disperse the simulated oil slicks and their impact on the marine environment. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard also undertakes efforts to rescue any mariners involved in the simulated accident.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiEnoK679uJAxX8R2wGHTcSKv4QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-pollution-thick-smog-causes-low-visibility-in-delhi-ncr-aqi-crosses-350-mark-775686" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-pollution-thick-smog-causes-low-visibility-in-delhi-ncr-aqi-crosses-350-mark-775686&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiEnoK679uJAxX8R2wGHTcSKv4QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Delhi pollution: Thick smog causes low visibility in Delhi-NCR, AQI crosses 350-mark</a>

ICG takes the lead role in Pollution Response pan-India and conducts training and real-time scenario-based exercises for all stakeholders, as part of its commitment to safeguarding the marine environment and ensuring the welfare of coastal communities.

The Indian Coast Guard conducted a regional-level Pollution Response Exercise, validating and demonstrating the preparedness of various stakeholders in dealing with oil and chemical spills at sea.

The Indian Coast Guard conducted a regional-level Pollution Response Exercise, validating and demonstrating the preparedness of various stakeholders in dealing with oil and chemical spills at sea. The Exercise was held between Tuesday (Nov 12) and Thursday (Nov 14) at Paradip, Odisha. The participating agencies were Paradip Port Authority, Dhamra Port, Gopalpur Port, BPCL, HPCL, IOCL and Odisha State Pollution Control Board. The three-day exercise included professional presentations, discussions and mock drills onboard ICG Ships at sea, off Paradip. This elaborate scenario-based exercise provided valuable insights and an effective response strategy for addressing oil spills along the sensitive coasts. Also read: Delhi faces severe smog as AQI soars to 428. Will GRAP 3 be enforced, primary schools shut? Details here During Pollution Response Exercises, the Coast Guard and relevant stakeholders simulate an oil spill at sea and deploy air and sea assets to contain the spill within a limited area. Subsequently, they disperse chemicals to counter and disperse the simulated oil slicks and their impact on the marine environment. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard also undertakes efforts to rescue any mariners involved in the simulated accident. Also read: Delhi pollution: Thick smog causes low visibility in Delhi-NCR, AQI crosses 350-mark ICG takes the lead role in Pollution Response pan-India and conducts training and real-time scenario-based exercises for all stakeholders, as part of its commitment to safeguarding the marine environment and ensuring the welfare of coastal communities.

Indian Coast Guard conducts Pollution Response Exercise off Odisha 

The 7th Annual High-Level Meeting (HLM) between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) was conducted on Monday, 11th November, at Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The meeting is aimed at enhancing the collaborative efforts to combat transnational maritime crime and promote regional cooperation. The annual meeting is as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between both maritime agencies in May 2018.

The four member ICG delegation is led by Director General S. Paramesh, Chief of the Indian Coast Guard, while the SLCG side is led by Rear Admiral YR Serasinghe, Director General, Sri Lanka Coast Guard.&nbsp;

The meeting underscores the commitment of both the Coast Guards to jointly address a plethora of maritime challenges, including drug trafficking, marine pollution, safety of mariners, adoption of best practices, capacity-building programmes and other collaborative arrangements.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-coast-guard-navy-assets-intensify-search-for-helicopter-captain-756071">Also read:&nbsp;Indian Coast Guard and Navy assets intensify search for helicopter captain</a>

The outcome of the meeting reiterates enhancing cooperation in addressing these challenges, thereby strengthening the maritime safety and security framework in the region. The 8th annual ICG-SLCG meeting will be hosted by Indian Coast Guard in the year 2025.

The meeting between the Coast Guard leadership comes barely a week after the 34th India and Sri Lanka Navy &amp; Coast Guard International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) meeting, co-chaired by Rear Admiral Ravi Kumar Dhingra, Flag Officer Commanding Tamil Nadu and Puducherry (FOTNA) &amp; Rear Admiral SJ Kumara, Commander North Central Naval Area, Sri Lanka Navy. This meeting was held onboard the Sri Lankan Naval Ship SLNS Vijayabahu in Palk Bay on 6th November 2024.&nbsp;

Representatives from both the sides held discussions with special focus on maritime security in Palk Bay &amp; Gulf of Mannar, safety of fishermen, and ways to enhance fishermen’s response to real-time communications.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian Coast Guard organises 'Day at Sea' showcases operational readiness &amp; capabilities

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-coast-guard-organises-day-at-sea-showcases-operational-readiness-capabilities-693780/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

It is notable that the fishermen issue remains a sore point in India-Sri Lanka ties, with fishers from each side crossing over into the other's waters. This is a longstanding and complex problem that involves fishing rights and territory in the narrow Palk Strait, the water body that separates the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu and the Northern part of the island nation Sri Lanka.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On Sunday, the Sri Lankan Navy arrested 23 Indian fishermen from Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, and detained their three trawlers for illegally fishing in Sri Lankan waters. More than 120 Indian fishermen and 190 boats remain in Sri Lankan custody. Notably, while campaigning for the upcoming Parliamentary polls, Lankan President AK Dissanayake vowed to protect the rights and marine resources of Northern Sri Lankan fishermen, most of whom belong to the minority Sri Lankan Tamil Community.&nbsp;

Speaking at the political event in Jaffna, the President accused Indian fishermen of destroying the marine resources that belonged to the Tamil-populated Northern region of Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

The 7th Annual High-Level Meeting (HLM) between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) was conducted on Monday, 11th November, at Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The 7th Annual High-Level Meeting (HLM) between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) was conducted on Monday, 11th November, at Colombo, Sri Lanka. The meeting is aimed at enhancing the collaborative efforts to combat transnational maritime crime and promote regional cooperation. The annual meeting is as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between both maritime agencies in May 2018. The four member ICG delegation is led by Director General S. Paramesh, Chief of the Indian Coast Guard, while the SLCG side is led by Rear Admiral YR Serasinghe, Director General, Sri Lanka Coast Guard. The meeting underscores the commitment of both the Coast Guards to jointly address a plethora of maritime challenges, including drug trafficking, marine pollution, safety of mariners, adoption of best practices, capacity-building programmes and other collaborative arrangements. Also read: Indian Coast Guard and Navy assets intensify search for helicopter captain The outcome of the meeting reiterates enhancing cooperation in addressing these challenges, thereby strengthening the maritime safety and security framework in the region. The 8th annual ICG-SLCG meeting will be hosted by Indian Coast Guard in the year 2025. The meeting between the Coast Guard leadership comes barely a week after the 34th India and Sri Lanka Navy & Coast Guard International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) meeting, co-chaired by Rear Admiral Ravi Kumar Dhingra, Flag Officer Commanding Tamil Nadu and Puducherry (FOTNA) & Rear Admiral SJ Kumara, Commander North Central Naval Area, Sri Lanka Navy. This meeting was held onboard the Sri Lankan Naval Ship SLNS Vijayabahu in Palk Bay on 6th November 2024. Representatives from both the sides held discussions with special focus on maritime security in Palk Bay & Gulf of Mannar, safety of fishermen, and ways to enhance fishermen’s response to real-time communications. Watch | Indian Coast Guard organises 'Day at Sea' showcases operational readiness & capabilities × It is notable that the fishermen issue remains a sore point in India-Sri Lanka ties, with fishers from each side crossing over into the other's waters. This is a longstanding and complex problem that involves fishing rights and territory in the narrow Palk Strait, the water body that separates the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu and the Northern part of the island nation Sri Lanka. On Sunday, the Sri Lankan Navy arrested 23 Indian fishermen from Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, and detained their three trawlers for illegally fishing in Sri Lankan waters. More than 120 Indian fishermen and 190 boats remain in Sri Lankan custody. Notably, while campaigning for the upcoming Parliamentary polls, Lankan President AK Dissanayake vowed to protect the rights and marine resources of Northern Sri Lankan fishermen, most of whom belong to the minority Sri Lankan Tamil Community. Speaking at the political event in Jaffna, the President accused Indian fishermen of destroying the marine resources that belonged to the Tamil-populated Northern region of Sri Lanka.

Indian and Sri Lankan Coast Guards conduct 7th high-level meet, to combat transnational maritime crime

indian-coast-guard

Indian Coast Guard, News on Indian Coast Guard, stories on Indian Coast Guard, articles on Indian Coast Guard, Indian Coast Guard stories at Wion, Indian Coast Guard news, Indian Coast Guard latest news

indian coast-guard

SAREX 2026 maritime drill held off Paradip Coast in Odisha

5 Pakistanis arrested as India foils major drug smuggling bid in Arabian Sea