In a joint operation between the Indian Coast Guard and the Narcotics Control Bureau, a suspicious boat with four crew members were apprehended. The incident took place on Monday 21st&nbsp;November, when the suspicious vessel was trying to flee at high speeds, near Rameshwaram in the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

On investigation, 300kg of marijuana in eight gunny bags and 500gm of Hashish oil were recovered from the boat. The market value of the seized contraband is estimated at Rs.1.3 crores or $159,000.&nbsp;

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This comes just a week after the ICG thwarted a smuggling attempt in the same region, involving fishing boats from India and Sri Lanka. Back then,&nbsp;104 bags of Tendu leaves, weighing nearly 2.8 tons and worth Rs.2 crores (USD245K) was recovered from the boats.&nbsp;Leaves of tree species 'Diospyros melanoxylon' are used as wrappers of tobacco to produce bidi. This tree is commonly known as "tendu".

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In a joint operation between the Indian Coast Guard and the Narcotics Control Bureau, a suspicious boat with four crew members were apprehended. The incident took place on Monday 21st November, when the suspicious vessel was trying to flee at high speeds, near Rameshwaram in the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu.

In a joint operation between the Indian Coast Guard and the Narcotics Control Bureau, a suspicious boat with four crew members were apprehended. The incident took place on Monday 21st November, when the suspicious vessel was trying to flee at high speeds, near Rameshwaram in the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu. On investigation, 300kg of marijuana in eight gunny bags and 500gm of Hashish oil were recovered from the boat. The market value of the seized contraband is estimated at Rs.1.3 crores or $159,000. Also read | Indonesia quake toll rises to 252, president announces compensation for families of victims This comes just a week after the ICG thwarted a smuggling attempt in the same region, involving fishing boats from India and Sri Lanka. Back then, 104 bags of Tendu leaves, weighing nearly 2.8 tons and worth Rs.2 crores (USD245K) was recovered from the boats. Leaves of tree species 'Diospyros melanoxylon' are used as wrappers of tobacco to produce bidi. This tree is commonly known as "tendu".

India: Coast Guard intercepts fleeing boat, recovers contraband valued at $159K

An Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ship patrolling thwarted a smuggling attempt on the waters of the Gulf of Mannar, which connects India and Sri Lanka,.

A total of four fishing boats, two each from India and Sri Lanka, were spotted by the guards of Ship Vajra, as they were engaging in the smuggling of Tendu leaves near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).&nbsp;

According to the ICG, two Sri Lankan fishing boats were apprehended after a hot pursuit as they were fleeing at high speed to cross the IMBL. About 104 bags of Tendu leaves, weighing nearly 2.8 tonnes worth Rs. 20 million ($24,500) were recovered from the boats.&nbsp;

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The leaves of Tendu, scientifically known as 'Diospyros melanoxyion', are used as wrappers of tobacco to produce bidi -- a thin cigarette or mini-cigar that is filled with tobacco flakes and commonly wrapped in a tendu leaf.

The boats were then taken to Tuticorin harbour in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu and were handed over to local authorities for further action.&nbsp;

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An Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ship patrolling thwarted a smuggling attempt on the waters of the Gulf of Mannar, which connects India and Sri Lanka,. A total of four fishing boats, two each from India and Sri Lanka, were spotted by the guards of Ship Vajra, as they were engaging in the smuggling of Tendu leaves near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).

An Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ship patrolling thwarted a smuggling attempt on the waters of the Gulf of Mannar, which connects India and Sri Lanka,. A total of four fishing boats, two each from India and Sri Lanka, were spotted by the guards of Ship Vajra, as they were engaging in the smuggling of Tendu leaves near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). According to the ICG, two Sri Lankan fishing boats were apprehended after a hot pursuit as they were fleeing at high speed to cross the IMBL. About 104 bags of Tendu leaves, weighing nearly 2.8 tonnes worth Rs. 20 million ($24,500) were recovered from the boats. World Business Watch: Decoding the state of Global Economy The leaves of Tendu, scientifically known as 'Diospyros melanoxyion', are used as wrappers of tobacco to produce bidi -- a thin cigarette or mini-cigar that is filled with tobacco flakes and commonly wrapped in a tendu leaf. The boats were then taken to Tuticorin harbour in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu and were handed over to local authorities for further action. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian Coast Guard thwarts smuggling attempts, seizes fishing boats in Gulf of Mannar

American Coast Guard vessel USCGC Midgett sailed into and is anchored at the southern Indian city of Chennai on Friday as part of a four-day visit. The visiting crew is set to have in-port and at-sea bilateral professional exchanges, sharing of expertise and best practices with the Indian Coast Guard.

American Coast Guard vessel USCGC Midgett sailed into and is anchored at the southern Indian city of Chennai on Friday as part of a four-day visit. The visiting crew is set to have in-port and at-sea bilateral professional exchanges, sharing of expertise and best practices with the Indian Coast Guard. USCGC Midgett is on a mission to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific through cooperation and maritime domain awareness with the Indian Coast Guard. The visit by USCGC Midgett is aimed at reiterating the 75 years of partnership between the United States and India and strengthening the relationship between the two countries. 418 feet long and 54 feet wide, the Midgett is the largest and most technologically advanced of the US Coast Guard’s most recent class of vessels. Over the course of this voyage, the Midgett has sailed through the region’s waters, interacted with counterparts in the Philippines, Singapore and also taken part in bilateral exercises. #Chennai , we have a visitor! @uscoastguard ship (#Hawaii -based)Midgett is here for 4 days , for at-sea & in-port pro exchanges with the @IndiaCoastGuard Midgett is the largest & most tech advanced of US CG newest class of vessels; it has an onboard MH65 helo & scaneagle UAV pic.twitter.com/Q0VIfCGeCf — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) September 16, 2022 × It is capable of executing the most challenging operations, including supporting the maritime homeland security and defence missions, and is equipped with a UAS Scan Eagle drone, MH-65 helicopter, and other state-of-the-art equipment. WATCH | India's Coast Guard divers clean coral reef zones, remove ghost nets “As we spend the next four days with our Indian Coast Guard partners, we will work to advance our capabilities and interoperability through meaningful human interactions with our likeminded partners who share similar values and a commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific." said US Coast Guard Captain Willie Carmichael, the Commanding Officer, USCGCS, Midgett. Welcoming the Midgett to Chennai, US Consul General in Chennai Judith Ravin said, “The US is a proud Indo-Pacific nation, and our vital interests are inextricably tied to the region. India is an important partner of the United States in the Indo-Pacific region. I am confident the US-India partnership during the visit of the USCGC Midgett will further strengthen our bond towards a shared vision of a free and secure Indo-Pacific.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US Coast Guard ship Midgett on a four-day visit to Chennai; at-sea, in-port exchanges planned

To make seas and oceans safer for fellow mariners, the Indian Coast Guard conducted the SAREX-2022 exercise. The search and rescue exercise had in its attendance international participants and delegates. Have a look at this special report by WION's Disha Shah and Video Journalist Gopal Choudhary.

SAREX-2022: The Indian Coast Guard's Maritime Search & Rescue Exercise

SAREX-2022: The Indian Coast Guard's Maritime Search & Rescue

The 10th edition of the national maritime search and rescue exercise 2022 was inaugurated in Chennai. The two-day exercise which will be conducted under the national maritime search and rescue board and is hosted by the Indian coast guard. Indian coast guard Director General Virender Singh Pathania spoke to WION and elaborated the importance of this exercise.

'We never let our guard down,' says Indian coast guard Director General Virender Singh Pathania

The Indian Coast Guard on Monday inducted the made-in-India Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk3, into the Coast Guard Region East. While this is the first induction into the newly created '840 Squadron' that is to be based in Chennai, three more choppers of the same variant are to follow. The first chopper was received at Coast Guard Air Station, Chennai with a traditional ‘water cannon salute', in the presence of Inspector General AP Badola, Commander, Coast Guard Region East.&nbsp;

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First ALH Mk3 made-in-India chopper inducted in ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a>⁩ Region East <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chennai</a> 
 
Chopper will be part of ‘840 Squadron’, 3 more will join soon.. They will operate across entire CG east region 
 
It is capable of beyond-visual-range detection, has mounted machinegun <a href="https://t.co/VZMiapYG9U">pic.twitter.com/VZMiapYG9U</a>
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Positioning the ALH Mk3 at Chennai, gives the Coast Guard the capability of Beyond Visual Range detection, using state-of-the-art radar integrated with long range imaging and identification using the Electro Optical Pod and Automatic Identification System. Equipped with the mounted Heavy machine gun, the chopper can also carry out target neutralization. As part of '840 squadron', the state-of-the-art helicopter will address India’s multi-faceted marine interests within the Exclusive Economic Zone. The Squadron’s operations area will encompass the entire Eastern Region due to its strategic importance and geographical location and will boost the air-arm of the Indian Coast Guard Region East.&nbsp;

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An indigenous aircraft designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the ALH Mk3 aircraft represents a tremendous leap towards self-reliance in the field of Coast Guard aviation. Till date, 13 out of 16 ALH choppers have been delivered by M/s HAL to the ICG This is the first ALH MK III aircraft to be positioned in Coast Guard Region East.&nbsp;

The Indian Coast Guard on Monday inducted the made-in-India Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk3, into the Coast Guard Region East. While this is the first induction into the newly created '840 Squadron' that is to be based in Chennai, three more choppers of the same variant are to follow.

The Indian Coast Guard on Monday inducted the made-in-India Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk3, into the Coast Guard Region East. While this is the first induction into the newly created '840 Squadron' that is to be based in Chennai, three more choppers of the same variant are to follow. The first chopper was received at Coast Guard Air Station, Chennai with a traditional ‘water cannon salute', in the presence of Inspector General AP Badola, Commander, Coast Guard Region East. First ALH Mk3 made-in-India chopper inducted in ⁦@IndiaCoastGuard⁩ Region East #chennai Chopper will be part of ‘840 Squadron’, 3 more will join soon.. They will operate across entire CG east region It is capable of beyond-visual-range detection, has mounted machinegun pic.twitter.com/VZMiapYG9U — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) June 20, 2022 × Positioning the ALH Mk3 at Chennai, gives the Coast Guard the capability of Beyond Visual Range detection, using state-of-the-art radar integrated with long range imaging and identification using the Electro Optical Pod and Automatic Identification System. Equipped with the mounted Heavy machine gun, the chopper can also carry out target neutralization. As part of '840 squadron', the state-of-the-art helicopter will address India’s multi-faceted marine interests within the Exclusive Economic Zone. The Squadron’s operations area will encompass the entire Eastern Region due to its strategic importance and geographical location and will boost the air-arm of the Indian Coast Guard Region East. Also read | Agneepath scheme: Indian Army issues notification for Agniveer recruitments An indigenous aircraft designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the ALH Mk3 aircraft represents a tremendous leap towards self-reliance in the field of Coast Guard aviation. Till date, 13 out of 16 ALH choppers have been delivered by M/s HAL to the ICG This is the first ALH MK III aircraft to be positioned in Coast Guard Region East.

Indian Coast Guard '840 squadron' inducts first ALH Mk3 Helicopter, three more to join

During the wee hours of Sunday (May 1), the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued all six crew members of a sinking vessel, off India's west coast. The cargo vessel, MSV Malabar Light, was in distress owing to flooding in its engine room, as it was on a voyage from Beypore in Kerala to Androth in Lakshadweep. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the ICG, it was at 2 am that the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai intimated the Coast Guard Station in Beypore, Kerala about the situation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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At 2.45 am, the Coast Guard ship C-404 was deployed from Beypore, to render assistance. The distressed vessel MSV Malabar Light was ferrying construction materials, livestock, etc, and the flooding on-board had forced the crew to jump onto a lifeboat and drift in the open sea. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Having reached the spot at 4.20 am, all crew were rescued onto the Coast Guard vessel, rendered first aid and found healthy.

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The lifeboat was then towed to Beypore harbour, where the rescued crew members disembarked and were handed over to local authorities, at 6:15 am.

During the wee hours of Sunday (May 1), the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued all six crew members of a sinking vessel, off India's west coast. The cargo vessel, MSV Malabar Light, was in distress owing to flooding in its engine room, as it was on a voyage from Beypore in Kerala to Androth in Lakshadweep.

During the wee hours of Sunday (May 1), the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued all six crew members of a sinking vessel, off India's west coast. The cargo vessel, MSV Malabar Light, was in distress owing to flooding in its engine room, as it was on a voyage from Beypore in Kerala to Androth in Lakshadweep. According to the ICG, it was at 2 am that the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai intimated the Coast Guard Station in Beypore, Kerala about the situation. Also Read: Indian SC: No curbs in public places for those not jabbed against Covid At 2.45 am, the Coast Guard ship C-404 was deployed from Beypore, to render assistance. The distressed vessel MSV Malabar Light was ferrying construction materials, livestock, etc, and the flooding on-board had forced the crew to jump onto a lifeboat and drift in the open sea. Having reached the spot at 4.20 am, all crew were rescued onto the Coast Guard vessel, rendered first aid and found healthy. Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi arrives in Germany on first leg of three-nation trip × The lifeboat was then towed to Beypore harbour, where the rescued crew members disembarked and were handed over to local authorities, at 6:15 am.

Indian Coast Guard saves all six crew members of sinking ship off India's west coast

During a routine patrol off east coast of India, near Andhra Pradesh, an Indian Coast Guard ship performed a rescue operation of a different kind. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On spotting an endangered Olive Ridley Turtle caught in a fishing net, the ship sent a team to set it free. &nbsp;

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In the pictures and videos of the incident, the 51-meter-long Fast Patrol Craft ICGS Rani Rashmoni can be seen overlooking the scene, when personnel on-board a small dinghy make efforts to free the turtle from the net. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Every life matters! 
 
While on regular patrol off the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Andhra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Andhra</a> coast, <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> ship 'Rani Rashmoni' spotted an endangered OliveRidley turtle caught in a fishing net 
 
True to the ICG credo, 'Vayam Rakshamah' (we protect), the ship sent a small boat &amp; freed the turtle <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://t.co/T4QERCCLcZ">pic.twitter.com/T4QERCCLcZ</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1519311909555961856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to the Schedule I of Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and Appendix I of the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) of Wild Flora and Fauna, Olive Ridley turtles are among the endangered species.

Watch:&nbsp;Critically endangered Cotton-top Tamarin species monkey born in Colombia zoo

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Indian Coast Guard fast patrol crafts, such as 'Rani Rashmoni', are meant to perform multifarious tasks, such as surveillance, interdiction, search and rescue, anti-smuggling and anti-poaching operations.&nbsp;

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During a routine patrol off east coast of India, near Andhra Pradesh, an Indian Coast Guard ship performed a rescue operation of a different kind. On spotting an endangered Olive Ridley Turtle caught in a fishing net, the ship sent a team to set it free.

During a routine patrol off east coast of India, near Andhra Pradesh, an Indian Coast Guard ship performed a rescue operation of a different kind. On spotting an endangered Olive Ridley Turtle caught in a fishing net, the ship sent a team to set it free. Also Read | India: Irate over repeated snags, man sets his e-scooter on fire In the pictures and videos of the incident, the 51-meter-long Fast Patrol Craft ICGS Rani Rashmoni can be seen overlooking the scene, when personnel on-board a small dinghy make efforts to free the turtle from the net. Every life matters! While on regular patrol off the #Andhra coast, @IndiaCoastGuard ship 'Rani Rashmoni' spotted an endangered OliveRidley turtle caught in a fishing net True to the ICG credo, 'Vayam Rakshamah' (we protect), the ship sent a small boat & freed the turtle #India pic.twitter.com/T4QERCCLcZ — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) April 27, 2022 × According to the Schedule I of Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and Appendix I of the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) of Wild Flora and Fauna, Olive Ridley turtles are among the endangered species. Watch: Critically endangered Cotton-top Tamarin species monkey born in Colombia zoo × Indian Coast Guard fast patrol crafts, such as 'Rani Rashmoni', are meant to perform multifarious tasks, such as surveillance, interdiction, search and rescue, anti-smuggling and anti-poaching operations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch: Indian Coast Guard ship spots endangered turtle being stuck in net mid-sea, sets it free  

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is conducting International Maritime Organization Level I &amp; II course for 42 delegates from 17 friendly foreign countries.

The course will be taught in southern Chennai city, which is the headquarters for Coast Guard Region East. It is sponsored by the Indian Technical&nbsp;and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) division of India's Ministry of External Affairs.

Under this course, participants will be exposed to the theoretical aspects of oil-spill response techniques and a practical live demo of response methods, shoreline clean-up techniques and surveillance procedures.&nbsp;

The 12-day course has been drawn up in line with the Indian government's vision to enhance the capacity building in the Indian Ocean Region, Indo-Pacific, Gulf of Guinea countries and littoral countries.

This course, which commenced on Monday,&nbsp;is meant to enhance professional acumen, awareness, coordination and cooperation among the countries in the field of environmental protection.

The participating countries are Iran, Comoros, Thailand, Somalia, Mauritius, Myanmar, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Oman, Seychelles, Bangladesh, South Africa, Vietnam, Madagascar, Yemen and Nigeria.&nbsp;

The Indian Coast Guard, part of the Ministry of Defence, is the designated national authority for oil spill response in Indian waters under the National Oil Spill-Disaster Contingency Plan.

Over the last several decades, the ICG has had vast experience in carrying out response activities to oil spills, off India's east and west coast and also in the Indian Ocean Region.

The most recent examples are of India's constant support and efforts in fighting the fire on commercial ships that were off the coast of Sri Lanka. In September 2020, a major fire had broken onboard MT New Diamond, which was carrying about 270,000 metric tonnes of oil and positioned off the eastern coast of Sri Lanka and the ICG played a major role in mitigating an environmental disaster.&nbsp;

The ICG’s swift response was again on display when it helped combat the blaze on board MV X-Press Pearl, off Sri Lankan coast. When it caught fire, the container ship was carrying 1,486 containers of chemical cargo classified under International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG).

Among other chemicals, the IMDG cargo consisted of highly inflammable Nitric Acid, Methanol, Methyl Acetate, Sodium Hydroxide and Polystyrene beads.

Despite the best firefighting efforts, the vessel sank off the coast of Sri Lanka, between Colombo and Negombo.&nbsp;

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is conducting International Maritime Organization Level I & II course for 42 delegates from 17 friendly foreign countries. The course will be taught in southern Chennai city, which is the headquarters for Coast Guard Region East.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is conducting International Maritime Organization Level I & II course for 42 delegates from 17 friendly foreign countries. The course will be taught in southern Chennai city, which is the headquarters for Coast Guard Region East. It is sponsored by the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) division of India's Ministry of External Affairs. Under this course, participants will be exposed to the theoretical aspects of oil-spill response techniques and a practical live demo of response methods, shoreline clean-up techniques and surveillance procedures. The 12-day course has been drawn up in line with the Indian government's vision to enhance the capacity building in the Indian Ocean Region, Indo-Pacific, Gulf of Guinea countries and littoral countries. This course, which commenced on Monday, is meant to enhance professional acumen, awareness, coordination and cooperation among the countries in the field of environmental protection. The participating countries are Iran, Comoros, Thailand, Somalia, Mauritius, Myanmar, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Oman, Seychelles, Bangladesh, South Africa, Vietnam, Madagascar, Yemen and Nigeria. The Indian Coast Guard, part of the Ministry of Defence, is the designated national authority for oil spill response in Indian waters under the National Oil Spill-Disaster Contingency Plan. Over the last several decades, the ICG has had vast experience in carrying out response activities to oil spills, off India's east and west coast and also in the Indian Ocean Region. The most recent examples are of India's constant support and efforts in fighting the fire on commercial ships that were off the coast of Sri Lanka. In September 2020, a major fire had broken onboard MT New Diamond, which was carrying about 270,000 metric tonnes of oil and positioned off the eastern coast of Sri Lanka and the ICG played a major role in mitigating an environmental disaster. The ICG’s swift response was again on display when it helped combat the blaze on board MV X-Press Pearl, off Sri Lankan coast. When it caught fire, the container ship was carrying 1,486 containers of chemical cargo classified under International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG). Among other chemicals, the IMDG cargo consisted of highly inflammable Nitric Acid, Methanol, Methyl Acetate, Sodium Hydroxide and Polystyrene beads. Despite the best firefighting efforts, the vessel sank off the coast of Sri Lanka, between Colombo and Negombo.

Indian Coast Guard trains counterparts from 17 countries in combating oil spill

The Indian Coast Guard inducted two Advanced Light Helicopters Mk3 variants at Kochi, under the 845 Squadron.&nbsp;

These made-in-India helicopters are designed and built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and ten of these are being operated by the Indian Coast Guard.&nbsp;

The Mk 3 variant of the chopper is a maritime version that can be used for reconnaissance, long-range search and rescue, during both day and night.

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Water cannon salute accorded to 2 <a href="https://twitter.com/HALHQBLR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HALHQBLR</a> built ALHMk3 choppers being inducted into <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kochi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kochi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> base <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kerala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/maritime?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#maritime</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/security?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#security</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/helicopter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#helicopter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtmaNirbharBharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtmaNirbharBharat</a> <a href="https://t.co/QMkLMSNtov">https://t.co/QMkLMSNtov</a> <a href="https://t.co/Avg40zBLtq">pic.twitter.com/Avg40zBLtq</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1491736351267385344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The two choppers, based at Kochi, are aimed at boosting coastal security along the coast of Kerala, Karnataka and around Lakshadweep, on India's West Coast.

The ALH Mk 3 features an array of systems that were previously seen on heavier, multi-role helicopters.&nbsp;

This variant is fitted with modern surveillance radar and electro-optical equipment.&nbsp;

It is also fitted with a heavy machine gun and a removable intensive care unit, that would be useful in airlifting and providing relief to critically ill patients. With a host of advanced avionics, this chopper is an all-weather aircraft.

The ALH Mk3 squadron in Kochi will be commanded by Commandant Kunal Chandrakant Naik, who is an experienced qualified flying instructor with extensive operational experience in ALH Mk3.

The Indian Coast Guard inducted two Advanced Light Helicopters Mk3 variants at Kochi, under the 845 Squadron. These made-in-India helicopters are designed and built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and ten of these are being operated by the Indian Coast Guard.

The Indian Coast Guard inducted two Advanced Light Helicopters Mk3 variants at Kochi, under the 845 Squadron. These made-in-India helicopters are designed and built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and ten of these are being operated by the Indian Coast Guard. The Mk 3 variant of the chopper is a maritime version that can be used for reconnaissance, long-range search and rescue, during both day and night. Water cannon salute accorded to 2 @HALHQBLR built ALHMk3 choppers being inducted into #kochi @IndiaCoastGuard base #kerala #India #maritime #security #helicopter #AtmaNirbharBharat https://t.co/QMkLMSNtov pic.twitter.com/Avg40zBLtq — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 10, 2022 × The two choppers, based at Kochi, are aimed at boosting coastal security along the coast of Kerala, Karnataka and around Lakshadweep, on India's West Coast. The ALH Mk 3 features an array of systems that were previously seen on heavier, multi-role helicopters. This variant is fitted with modern surveillance radar and electro-optical equipment. It is also fitted with a heavy machine gun and a removable intensive care unit, that would be useful in airlifting and providing relief to critically ill patients. With a host of advanced avionics, this chopper is an all-weather aircraft. The ALH Mk3 squadron in Kochi will be commanded by Commandant Kunal Chandrakant Naik, who is an experienced qualified flying instructor with extensive operational experience in ALH Mk3.

Indian Coast Guard inducts made-in-India choppers for maritime security of west coast

How hard is it for a 17-year old to leave home, family, and travel abroad to train at a Military Academy? New culture, new people, new language, new places, and a gruelling and transformative four-year-long training period… The list is endless.

Despite all these challenges, these young men and women assimilate, learn, grow and develop into fine Naval Officers at the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, ready to go back and serve their respective Navy.&nbsp;

WION spoke to foreign personnel who completed their training at the Indian Naval Academy and formally passed out of the premier Naval training institution.

The INA trains young men and women, to be commissioned as officers of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. INA is also the only Defence institution in India to handle ab-initio training for young men and women under both Short Service Commission, Permanent Commission.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-maldives-hits-out-at-malicious-india-out-campaign-says-propaganda-by-corrupt-people-432448" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Maldives hits out at malicious ‘India out’ campaign, says propaganda by 'corrupt people'</a>

“Apart from training hard with the Indian cadets, we had the opportunity of blending with Indian Culture. We celebrated and enjoyed festivals such as Holi, Diwali and Onam… the brotherhood here and the love showered upon me by the fellow cadets and their families never let me feel like the foreigner in the last four years” Sub Lieutenant Isuru Senevirathne, from Sri Lanka told WION. Notably, he also spoke the same in fluent Hindi, which he had picked up and mastered during his time at the academy.&nbsp;

Walking into the INA, the trainees come from various cultural, linguistic, socio-economic backgrounds, but, once in the academy, they only have a single identity - as Naval officers in the making. In their crew cuts, glistening white uniforms and chiselled, lean-muscular physiques, it's hard to even identify one cadet from another.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-subscribe-elon-musk-backed-starlink-services-till-it-gets-licence-indian-government-tells-public-432309">Also read |&nbsp;Don’t subscribe Elon Musk-backed Starlink services till it gets licence, Indian government tells public</a>

For Abdullazizi Omar Haji, from Tanzania, his first challenge was to improve his English language while at the Academy, in order to better understand the course and communicate with his course mates and instructors.&nbsp;

“I joined here after completing high school. My parents are teachers back home and I’m the youngest of four brothers.. Here, I picked up English slowly, with the help of my instructors, coursemates, and seniors, who helped me a lot. I’m also able to understand Hindi now” Omar Haji told WION.&nbsp;

Omar and Isuru were among the 231 trainees who had passed out as Naval Officers from the Indian Naval Academy, over the weekend. These cadets(commissioned as Naval Officer) had pursued different technical courses at the INA, spanning between six months, one year and four years. While the Indian Officers will go on to serve the Indian Navy, the foreign personnel will return to their respective countries.&nbsp;

As a part of Military diplomacy and in order to build stronger bridges of friendship, India’s Defence Institutions train military personnel from friendly foreign countries. This helps develop trust, bonding and camaraderie, and interoperability, between the forces. In recent decades, the Indian Navy alone has trained over 15,000 foreign personnel from over 46 countries.&nbsp;

How hard is it for a 17-year old to leave home, family, and travel abroad to train at a Military Academy? New culture, new people, new language, new places, and a gruelling and transformative four-year-long training period… The list is endless.

How hard is it for a 17-year old to leave home, family, and travel abroad to train at a Military Academy? New culture, new people, new language, new places, and a gruelling and transformative four-year-long training period… The list is endless. Despite all these challenges, these young men and women assimilate, learn, grow and develop into fine Naval Officers at the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, ready to go back and serve their respective Navy. WION spoke to foreign personnel who completed their training at the Indian Naval Academy and formally passed out of the premier Naval training institution. The INA trains young men and women, to be commissioned as officers of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. INA is also the only Defence institution in India to handle ab-initio training for young men and women under both Short Service Commission, Permanent Commission. Also read | Exclusive: Maldives hits out at malicious ‘India out’ campaign, says propaganda by 'corrupt people' “Apart from training hard with the Indian cadets, we had the opportunity of blending with Indian Culture. We celebrated and enjoyed festivals such as Holi, Diwali and Onam… the brotherhood here and the love showered upon me by the fellow cadets and their families never let me feel like the foreigner in the last four years” Sub Lieutenant Isuru Senevirathne, from Sri Lanka told WION. Notably, he also spoke the same in fluent Hindi, which he had picked up and mastered during his time at the academy. Walking into the INA, the trainees come from various cultural, linguistic, socio-economic backgrounds, but, once in the academy, they only have a single identity - as Naval officers in the making. In their crew cuts, glistening white uniforms and chiselled, lean-muscular physiques, it's hard to even identify one cadet from another. Also read | Don’t subscribe Elon Musk-backed Starlink services till it gets licence, Indian government tells public For Abdullazizi Omar Haji, from Tanzania, his first challenge was to improve his English language while at the Academy, in order to better understand the course and communicate with his course mates and instructors. “I joined here after completing high school. My parents are teachers back home and I’m the youngest of four brothers.. Here, I picked up English slowly, with the help of my instructors, coursemates, and seniors, who helped me a lot. I’m also able to understand Hindi now” Omar Haji told WION. Omar and Isuru were among the 231 trainees who had passed out as Naval Officers from the Indian Naval Academy, over the weekend. These cadets(commissioned as Naval Officer) had pursued different technical courses at the INA, spanning between six months, one year and four years. While the Indian Officers will go on to serve the Indian Navy, the foreign personnel will return to their respective countries. As a part of Military diplomacy and in order to build stronger bridges of friendship, India’s Defence Institutions train military personnel from friendly foreign countries. This helps develop trust, bonding and camaraderie, and interoperability, between the forces. In recent decades, the Indian Navy alone has trained over 15,000 foreign personnel from over 46 countries.

'Trained hard, blended with Indian culture, learnt Hindi,' foreign trainees tell WION at Indian Naval Academy

An Indian Coast Guard (ICG) team in southern Tamil Nadu state seized 600 kilograms of sea cucumber from a small boat that was involved in smuggling.

The market value of seized sea cucumbers is said to be around Rs 30 million ($400,000 approximately).

Based on a tip-off, the ICG team tracked the suspect vessel at Mandapam, Ramanathapuram district, and cordoned off the road to block their escape.

Subsequently, the boat was found to be anchored off Uchhipalli coast in Ramanathapuram on Tuesday afternoon.

The Coast Guard teams&nbsp;then rummaged the vessel and recovered 31 gunny bags of sea cucumber weighing 600 kgs. The boat, along with seized sea cucumbers, were then brought to Mandapam and handed over to the forest department officials.

Sea cucumbers are an important constituent of the marine ecosystem as they play a key role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem.

By excreting the inorganic nitrogen and phosphorus, sea cucumbers enhance the productivity of benthic animals —those living on the ocean floor.

One of the by-products of the sea cucumber's digestion of sand is calcium carbonate, a key component of coral reef. To survive, coral reefs must accumulate calcium carbonate, and thus sea cucumbers play a vital role in their preservation.

Sea cucumbers also maintain the transparency of seawater by eating sewage. Feeding and excretion by sea cucumbers also increase alkalinity, which counteracts ocean acidification.

Illegal harvesting and overexploitation of these animals leads to poorer sediment health, reduced nutrient recycling and impacting biodiversity.

In India, sea cucumber is treated as an endangered species and is listed under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.

An Indian Coast Guard (ICG) team in southern Tamil Nadu state seized 600 kilograms of sea cucumber from a small boat that was involved in smuggling. The market value of seized sea cucumbers is said to be around Rs 30 million ($400,000 approximately).

An Indian Coast Guard (ICG) team in southern Tamil Nadu state seized 600 kilograms of sea cucumber from a small boat that was involved in smuggling. The market value of seized sea cucumbers is said to be around Rs 30 million ($400,000 approximately). Based on a tip-off, the ICG team tracked the suspect vessel at Mandapam, Ramanathapuram district, and cordoned off the road to block their escape. Subsequently, the boat was found to be anchored off Uchhipalli coast in Ramanathapuram on Tuesday afternoon. The Coast Guard teams then rummaged the vessel and recovered 31 gunny bags of sea cucumber weighing 600 kgs. The boat, along with seized sea cucumbers, were then brought to Mandapam and handed over to the forest department officials. Sea cucumbers are an important constituent of the marine ecosystem as they play a key role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem. By excreting the inorganic nitrogen and phosphorus, sea cucumbers enhance the productivity of benthic animals —those living on the ocean floor. One of the by-products of the sea cucumber's digestion of sand is calcium carbonate, a key component of coral reef. To survive, coral reefs must accumulate calcium carbonate, and thus sea cucumbers play a vital role in their preservation. Sea cucumbers also maintain the transparency of seawater by eating sewage. Feeding and excretion by sea cucumbers also increase alkalinity, which counteracts ocean acidification. Illegal harvesting and overexploitation of these animals leads to poorer sediment health, reduced nutrient recycling and impacting biodiversity. In India, sea cucumber is treated as an endangered species and is listed under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.

600 kgs of smuggled sea cucumber worth $4 million seized in India’s southern Tamil Nadu coast 

India’s&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister Rajnath Singh conferred&nbsp;gallantry and meritorious service medals on the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) personnel at an investiture ceremony held in New Delhi on Saturday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A total of 21 awards, including three President’s&nbsp;Tatrakshak&nbsp;(Coast&nbsp;Guard)&nbsp;Medals&nbsp;(Distinguished Service), eight&nbsp;Tatrakshak&nbsp;Medals (Gallantry) and 10&nbsp;Tatrakshak&nbsp;Medals (Meritorious Service) were presented during the ceremony.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The medals were in recognition of the selfless devotion, exemplary courage and acts of&nbsp;valour&nbsp;of the ICG personnel under extreme conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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ICG&nbsp;Director General K Natarajan and senior officers of Ministry of&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;and Indian Coast Guard were present on the occasion.&nbsp;

Commending the force that are known as the ‘Sentinels of the sea’, the Minister said&nbsp;the&nbsp;ICG,&nbsp;which began service to the nation with just&nbsp;four to six&nbsp;boats, is now one of the best maritime forces in the world with over 150 ships and 66 aircraft. This ever-growing stature, he added, instills confidence among the people that the national maritime interests are under safe supervision.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-maharaja-returned-home-timeline-of-air-india-disinvestment-419460" hreflang="en">How Maharaja returned 'home': Timeline of Air India disinvestment</a>

He also touched upon how India is a rising maritime power and its prosperity is largely dependent on the sea.&nbsp;

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of 'Security and Growth for All in the Region'&nbsp;(SAGAR),&nbsp;he lauded the ICG for being at the forefront in achieving that goal by promoting regional cooperation, maintaining maritime peace in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and working closely with international maritime agencies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Special mentions were made of the ICG’s effort in&nbsp;fire-fighting and pollution response operations - Sagar Raksha-I and Sagar Raksha-II, which played a significant role in dousing the blaze onboard large crude oil carrier 'New Diamond' and container vessel 'Express Pearl' off the Sri Lankan Coast in late 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;

These operations not only&nbsp;showcase&nbsp;India’s stature as a responsible and capable maritime power, but also averted a major disaster in the IOR, he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/thankful-to-be-here-denmark-pm-meets-pm-modi-on-a-three-day-india-visit-419320" hreflang="en">'Thankful to be here': Denmark PM meets PM Modi on a three-day India visit</a>

Besides the role played in search and rescue operations and saving lives during the recent cyclones ‘Tauktae’ and ‘Yaas’, the Minister also commended the ICG’s operations against illegal weapons and narcotics trafficking.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It is notable that ICG had carried out 70 medical evacuations, conducted 555 search and rescue operations and saved the lives of more than 1,090 people, in the last one year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Following the investiture ceremony, the Minister also addressed the 38th Coast Guard Commanders’ Conference. This&nbsp;conference is an annual meet,&nbsp;which is attended by all the senior officers of the ICG and Ministry of&nbsp;Defence.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A brief on recent operational and administrative developments in Indian Coast Guard was presented to the&nbsp;defence&nbsp;minister. A wide range of issues pertaining to strengthening of the ICG as well as legitimate&nbsp;and&nbsp;legal use of oceans will be discussed during the three-day conference.&nbsp;

India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conferred gallantry and meritorious service medals on the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) personnel at an investiture ceremony held in New Delhi on Saturday.

India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conferred gallantry and meritorious service medals on the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) personnel at an investiture ceremony held in New Delhi on Saturday. A total of 21 awards, including three President’s Tatrakshak (Coast Guard) Medals (Distinguished Service), eight Tatrakshak Medals (Gallantry) and 10 Tatrakshak Medals (Meritorious Service) were presented during the ceremony. The medals were in recognition of the selfless devotion, exemplary courage and acts of valour of the ICG personnel under extreme conditions. ICG Director General K Natarajan and senior officers of Ministry of Defence and Indian Coast Guard were present on the occasion. Commending the force that are known as the ‘Sentinels of the sea’, the Minister said the ICG, which began service to the nation with just four to six boats, is now one of the best maritime forces in the world with over 150 ships and 66 aircraft. This ever-growing stature, he added, instills confidence among the people that the national maritime interests are under safe supervision. Also Read: How Maharaja returned 'home': Timeline of Air India disinvestment He also touched upon how India is a rising maritime power and its prosperity is largely dependent on the sea. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of 'Security and Growth for All in the Region' (SAGAR), he lauded the ICG for being at the forefront in achieving that goal by promoting regional cooperation, maintaining maritime peace in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and working closely with international maritime agencies. Special mentions were made of the ICG’s effort in fire-fighting and pollution response operations - Sagar Raksha-I and Sagar Raksha-II, which played a significant role in dousing the blaze onboard large crude oil carrier 'New Diamond' and container vessel 'Express Pearl' off the Sri Lankan Coast in late 2020. These operations not only showcase India’s stature as a responsible and capable maritime power, but also averted a major disaster in the IOR, he added. Also Read: 'Thankful to be here': Denmark PM meets PM Modi on a three-day India visit Besides the role played in search and rescue operations and saving lives during the recent cyclones ‘Tauktae’ and ‘Yaas’, the Minister also commended the ICG’s operations against illegal weapons and narcotics trafficking. It is notable that ICG had carried out 70 medical evacuations, conducted 555 search and rescue operations and saved the lives of more than 1,090 people, in the last one year. Following the investiture ceremony, the Minister also addressed the 38th Coast Guard Commanders’ Conference. This conference is an annual meet, which is attended by all the senior officers of the ICG and Ministry of Defence. A brief on recent operational and administrative developments in Indian Coast Guard was presented to the defence minister. A wide range of issues pertaining to strengthening of the ICG as well as legitimate and legal use of oceans will be discussed during the three-day conference.

Indian defence minister lauds coast guard for ensuring maritime peace, security, saving lives  

Based on a tip-off, the Indian Coast Guard team at Mandapam, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu seized a two-tonne shipment of marine species sea cucumber, that was being smuggled via Indian waters. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Early on Sunday, coast guard teams in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay areas tracked the boat, and laid a cordon to block the suspect vessel at sea. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sea cucumbers are an important constituent of the marine ecosystem as they play an important role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem. In India, sea cucumber is treated as an endangered species listed under schedule 1 of Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The boat, which was found anchored 15km off the Vedalai South locality in Madapam, was boarded and searched by an ICG team. The boarding team of ICG Hovercraft H-183 recovered 200 gunny bags of sea cucumber, weighing 2000 kg or two tonnes. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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The boat alongwith seized sea cucumbers were brought to Mandapam and handed over to forest officials. The value of seized sea cucumbers is said to be around Rs 80 million. &nbsp;

According to the coast guard, investigation revealed that the consignment was planned for transshipment across the International Maritime Boundary Line. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sea cucumbers are in high demand in China and Southeast Asia, where it is consumed as food and used in medicine. This endangered species is primarily smuggled from Tamil Nadu to Sri Lanka in fishing vessels from Ramanathapuram and Tuticorin districts. &nbsp;&nbsp;

By excreting inorganic nitrogen and phosphorus, they enhance the productivity of benthic animals - those living on the ocean floor. &nbsp;&nbsp;

One of the by-products of the sea cucumber's digestion of sand is calcium carbonate, a key component of coral reef. To survive, coral reefs must accumulate calcium carbonate, and thus sea cucumbers play a vital role in their preservation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Sea cucumbers also maintain the transparency of seawater by eating sewage. Feeding and excretion by sea cucumbers also increases alkalinity, which counteracts ocean acidification. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Illegal harvesting and overexploitation of these animals leads to poorer sediment health, reduces nutrient recycling and impacts biodiversity. &nbsp;

On September 18, in order to mark International Coastal Cleanup Day, the ICG-led school and college students, NCC cadets and volunteers conducted a cleanup along India’s coast. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The 7,000-member strong effort led to the collection of 44 tonnes of plastics and garbage from the oceans and beaches, spread across 44 locations.&nbsp;

Based on a tip-off, the Indian Coast Guard team at Mandapam, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu seized a two-tonne shipment of marine species sea cucumber, that was being smuggled via Indian waters.

Based on a tip-off, the Indian Coast Guard team at Mandapam, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu seized a two-tonne shipment of marine species sea cucumber, that was being smuggled via Indian waters. Early on Sunday, coast guard teams in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay areas tracked the boat, and laid a cordon to block the suspect vessel at sea. Sea cucumbers are an important constituent of the marine ecosystem as they play an important role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem. In India, sea cucumber is treated as an endangered species listed under schedule 1 of Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. The boat, which was found anchored 15km off the Vedalai South locality in Madapam, was boarded and searched by an ICG team. The boarding team of ICG Hovercraft H-183 recovered 200 gunny bags of sea cucumber, weighing 2000 kg or two tonnes. Watch: × The boat alongwith seized sea cucumbers were brought to Mandapam and handed over to forest officials. The value of seized sea cucumbers is said to be around Rs 80 million. According to the coast guard, investigation revealed that the consignment was planned for transshipment across the International Maritime Boundary Line. Sea cucumbers are in high demand in China and Southeast Asia, where it is consumed as food and used in medicine. This endangered species is primarily smuggled from Tamil Nadu to Sri Lanka in fishing vessels from Ramanathapuram and Tuticorin districts. By excreting inorganic nitrogen and phosphorus, they enhance the productivity of benthic animals - those living on the ocean floor. One of the by-products of the sea cucumber's digestion of sand is calcium carbonate, a key component of coral reef. To survive, coral reefs must accumulate calcium carbonate, and thus sea cucumbers play a vital role in their preservation. Also Read: Indian external affairs minister meets Serbian foreign minister, holds talks Sea cucumbers also maintain the transparency of seawater by eating sewage. Feeding and excretion by sea cucumbers also increases alkalinity, which counteracts ocean acidification. Illegal harvesting and overexploitation of these animals leads to poorer sediment health, reduces nutrient recycling and impacts biodiversity. On September 18, in order to mark International Coastal Cleanup Day, the ICG-led school and college students, NCC cadets and volunteers conducted a cleanup along India’s coast. The 7,000-member strong effort led to the collection of 44 tonnes of plastics and garbage from the oceans and beaches, spread across 44 locations.

Indian Coast Guard seizes two tonnes of endangered sea cucumber worth Rs 80 million

ICGS Vigraha, the latest Offshore Patrol Vessel to be commissioned by the Indian Coast Guard has reached its homeport of Vishakapatnam, in the Eastern State of Andhra Pradesh and has been accorded a grand welcome.

The 98-meter-long Vigraha, was commissioned on&nbsp;August 28 in Chennai, by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Built at a private shipyard near Chennai, the OPV has been designed and fitted with advanced technology, radar navigation and communication equipment, sensor and machinery capable of operating in tropical sea conditions.

The ship is also designed to carry one twin-engine helicopter and four high-speed boats including two inflatable boats for boarding operation, Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement, and Maritime Patrol.

While the ship has a top speed of 23 knots (almost 43kmph), it also has an endurance of 5,000 nautical miles at an economical speed. This sustenance and reach, coupled with the latest and modern equipment and system, provides her the capability to perform the role of a command platform.

The ship is also capable of carrying pollution response equipment to contain oil spills at sea. The ship can attain a maximum speed of 23 knots and has an endurance of 5,000 nautical miles at an economical speed.

This sustenance and reach, coupled with the latest and modern equipment and system, provides her the capability to perform the role of a command platform.

Commanded by Commandant PN Anoop, INS Vigraha joins the Coast Guard’s Eastern Region fleet and adds more heft to the capability on the Eastern seaboard.

The ship shall be deployed in the Area of Responsibility of Eastern Region and on her maiden entry to base port Visakhapatnam, a welcome ceremony was organised, which was graced by Deputy Inspector General Yoginder Dhaka, District Commander, Andhra Pradesh. ICGS Vigraha has a complement of 12 Officers and 90 Enrolled personnel.

&nbsp;

ICGS Vigraha, the latest Offshore Patrol Vessel to be commissioned by the Indian Coast Guard has reached its homeport of Vishakapatnam, in the Eastern State of Andhra Pradesh and has been accorded a grand welcome.

ICGS Vigraha, the latest Offshore Patrol Vessel to be commissioned by the Indian Coast Guard has reached its homeport of Vishakapatnam, in the Eastern State of Andhra Pradesh and has been accorded a grand welcome. The 98-meter-long Vigraha, was commissioned on August 28 in Chennai, by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Built at a private shipyard near Chennai, the OPV has been designed and fitted with advanced technology, radar navigation and communication equipment, sensor and machinery capable of operating in tropical sea conditions. The ship is also designed to carry one twin-engine helicopter and four high-speed boats including two inflatable boats for boarding operation, Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement, and Maritime Patrol. While the ship has a top speed of 23 knots (almost 43kmph), it also has an endurance of 5,000 nautical miles at an economical speed. This sustenance and reach, coupled with the latest and modern equipment and system, provides her the capability to perform the role of a command platform. The ship is also capable of carrying pollution response equipment to contain oil spills at sea. The ship can attain a maximum speed of 23 knots and has an endurance of 5,000 nautical miles at an economical speed. This sustenance and reach, coupled with the latest and modern equipment and system, provides her the capability to perform the role of a command platform. Commanded by Commandant PN Anoop, INS Vigraha joins the Coast Guard’s Eastern Region fleet and adds more heft to the capability on the Eastern seaboard. The ship shall be deployed in the Area of Responsibility of Eastern Region and on her maiden entry to base port Visakhapatnam, a welcome ceremony was organised, which was graced by Deputy Inspector General Yoginder Dhaka, District Commander, Andhra Pradesh. ICGS Vigraha has a complement of 12 Officers and 90 Enrolled personnel.

Indian Coast Guard’s latest vessel Vigraha reaches base port Vishakapatnam

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has said that all the 12 crew members of the cargo ship MV Kanchan, which sank off Gujarat, have been rescued. 
 
The ship had been dead in the water after contamination in the fuel left its engine defunct and the vessel without power supply. 
 
The weather in the region was inclement, with gusty winds of over 50 knots and waves that were 3-3.5 metres high. As of Thursday morning, it was learnt that the vessel had sunken.

The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) of ICG in Mumbai received information on Wednesday noon, regarding the cargo ship MV Kanchan that was stranded off Umargam in Gujarat. 
 
Later in the evening, the master of MV Kanchan informed us that their vessel, which was ferrying steel coils, had dropped its anchor and was listing towards its starboard side (right side).&nbsp;

MRCC Mumbai instantly activated the International Safety Net (ISN) to identify all the vessels in the vicinity to assist MV Kanchan. 
 
The MV Hermeez, which was in the region, responded quickly and diverted towards the vessel amid rough seas and conducted a daring rescue and evacuation at night.&nbsp;

The ETV Water Lily that was deployed by Directorate General Shipping to assist the stranded vessel has also reached the area. In addition, two tugs have also been deployed by the vessel owners, which are also likely to reach by Thursday noon.&nbsp;

The stranded vessel was not seen during searches at its last known location, conducted by ETV Water Lily and a helicopter from Daman.

Minor oil sheen and debris were sighted by the helicopter. DG Shipping has issued a notice under Sec 356 J to the Master and Owner of MV Kanchan for the prevention of oil pollution in the area.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has said that all the 12 crew members of the cargo ship MV Kanchan, which sank off Gujarat, have been rescued. The ship had been dead in the water after contamination in the fuel left its engine defunct and the vessel without power supply.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has said that all the 12 crew members of the cargo ship MV Kanchan, which sank off Gujarat, have been rescued. The ship had been dead in the water after contamination in the fuel left its engine defunct and the vessel without power supply. The weather in the region was inclement, with gusty winds of over 50 knots and waves that were 3-3.5 metres high. As of Thursday morning, it was learnt that the vessel had sunken. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) of ICG in Mumbai received information on Wednesday noon, regarding the cargo ship MV Kanchan that was stranded off Umargam in Gujarat. Later in the evening, the master of MV Kanchan informed us that their vessel, which was ferrying steel coils, had dropped its anchor and was listing towards its starboard side (right side). MRCC Mumbai instantly activated the International Safety Net (ISN) to identify all the vessels in the vicinity to assist MV Kanchan. The MV Hermeez, which was in the region, responded quickly and diverted towards the vessel amid rough seas and conducted a daring rescue and evacuation at night. The ETV Water Lily that was deployed by Directorate General Shipping to assist the stranded vessel has also reached the area. In addition, two tugs have also been deployed by the vessel owners, which are also likely to reach by Thursday noon. The stranded vessel was not seen during searches at its last known location, conducted by ETV Water Lily and a helicopter from Daman. Minor oil sheen and debris were sighted by the helicopter. DG Shipping has issued a notice under Sec 356 J to the Master and Owner of MV Kanchan for the prevention of oil pollution in the area.

All 12 crew of MV Kanchan sunken off Gujarat rescued: Indian Coast Guard

In a swift and coordinated Search and Rescue (SAR) operation that involved multiple vessels, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued nine crew off a sinking tug, near Port Blair. This operation was carried out late on Wednesday, a few hours after the information regarding the vessel in distress was received.&nbsp;

On June 23, the ICG received a distress call from Tug Ganga-1&nbsp;that was nearly 30 nautical miles southeast of Port Blair. The 9-crewed tug had left from Port Blair on Tuesday noon, towing a barge loaded with construction material and was to arrive at Hutbay in the early hours of Wednesday. But it had activated a distress signal owing to flooding in the engine room, while on the way.&nbsp;

Due to uncontrolled flooding, the crew abandoned the Tug and took shelter onboard the attached barge. The distress call information was shared with concerned authorities at Port Blair, following which ships ICGS C-146 and ICGS C-412 on routine deployment were immediately diverted for assistance.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Tug-Ganga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa89f26a-563b-470f-a406-7352f7304748" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tug%20Ganga-1-PIB.jpg" /> 
 
(Picture courtesy: Press Information Bureau)

CGS Durgabai Deshmukh and PMB Tug ‘Ocean Marvel’ sailed from Port Blair with a damage control team and de-flooding equipment for immediate assistance. While the crew were safe, one member who suffered a leg injury was evacuated by Coast Guard Ship C-146 and taken to a hospital.&nbsp;

ICG ships that attempted to save the sinking vessel realized that it was dangerous, risky to board it owing to heavy flooding and adverse sea conditions. Owing to water weight, the tug had titled to its port (left) side and its aft(rear portion) had gone lower into the water than usual.

Despite PMB Tug Ocean Marvel towing the distressed vessel towards Port Blair with ICG ships in escort, the distressed tug sank off Cinque island, in a region where the depth was more than 1500meters. All crew of the sunken ship were embarked onboard Tug Ocean Marvel and brought to Port Blair late on Wednesday.

In a swift and coordinated Search and Rescue (SAR) operation that involved multiple vessels, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued nine crew off a sinking tug, near Port Blair.

In a swift and coordinated Search and Rescue (SAR) operation that involved multiple vessels, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued nine crew off a sinking tug, near Port Blair. This operation was carried out late on Wednesday, a few hours after the information regarding the vessel in distress was received. On June 23, the ICG received a distress call from Tug Ganga-1 that was nearly 30 nautical miles southeast of Port Blair. The 9-crewed tug had left from Port Blair on Tuesday noon, towing a barge loaded with construction material and was to arrive at Hutbay in the early hours of Wednesday. But it had activated a distress signal owing to flooding in the engine room, while on the way. Due to uncontrolled flooding, the crew abandoned the Tug and took shelter onboard the attached barge. The distress call information was shared with concerned authorities at Port Blair, following which ships ICGS C-146 and ICGS C-412 on routine deployment were immediately diverted for assistance. (Picture courtesy: Press Information Bureau) CGS Durgabai Deshmukh and PMB Tug ‘Ocean Marvel’ sailed from Port Blair with a damage control team and de-flooding equipment for immediate assistance. While the crew were safe, one member who suffered a leg injury was evacuated by Coast Guard Ship C-146 and taken to a hospital. ICG ships that attempted to save the sinking vessel realized that it was dangerous, risky to board it owing to heavy flooding and adverse sea conditions. Owing to water weight, the tug had titled to its port (left) side and its aft(rear portion) had gone lower into the water than usual. Despite PMB Tug Ocean Marvel towing the distressed vessel towards Port Blair with ICG ships in escort, the distressed tug sank off Cinque island, in a region where the depth was more than 1500meters. All crew of the sunken ship were embarked onboard Tug Ocean Marvel and brought to Port Blair late on Wednesday.

Nine crew members rescued from sinking vessel off Port Blair, says Indian Coast Guard 

Merchant vessel JSW Mihirgad, a 122-meter long vessel safely entered the New Mangalore harbour during the wee hours of Saturday, thanks to timely assistance by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The merchant shop suffered a total power failure on its maiden voyage from Kochi, Kerala to Jaigarh, Rajasthan, leaving it dead in the water.&nbsp;

Manned by 14 crew, on Thursday, the ship suffered the failure of all three Diesel Alternators, bedsides it's a backup generator. This&nbsp;necessitated&nbsp;the ship&nbsp;to drop anchor&nbsp;about&nbsp;4.5 nautical miles off Kasargod, Kerala and raise a distress call. In the absence of propulsion, lighting, ventilation, caused by total power failure, the crew was also unable to prepare food or water through its onboard systems.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-india-pak-nsa-to-be-in-dushanbe-next-week-for-sco-nsas-meet-392555">Also Read |&nbsp;Exclusive: India, Pak NSA to be in Dushanbe next week for SCO NSAs meet</a>

Based on this information, ICG District Headquarters at New Mangalore conducted a situational assessment for the safe embarkation of the technical team from M/s&nbsp;Cochin Shipyard Ltd&nbsp;(CSL), which build the ship.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SafetyofSeafarers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SafetyofSeafarers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> prompt action averted potential disaster. Defect onboard MV JSW Mihirgad rectified by CSL engineers transferred per <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICG</a> helicopter. Vessel safely entered <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewMangalore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewMangalore</a> harbour today morning under own propulsion <a href="https://twitter.com/shipmin_india?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shipmin_india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qt1wpOkmjF">pic.twitter.com/Qt1wpOkmjF</a>
— Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard/status/1406116695836479492?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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However, due to adverse sea conditions with the high swell, usage of boats was ruled out and helicopters were considered a safe option.&nbsp;

On Friday, ICG Helicopter CG 817 airlifted&nbsp;the deputed&nbsp;technical staff from New Mangalore for rendering assistance, performing repairs to the ship. ICGS Varaha, which was in the area&nbsp;was also deployed immediately on Friday&nbsp;to monitor the situation and provide towing assistance, in case the vessel starts drifting towards the coast, due to rough weather.&nbsp;

Besides continuously tracking the vessel through its&nbsp;Coastal Security Network, the ICG team that got onboard had rectified the technical issue, thus saving 14 lives and averting a potential environmental disaster.

Merchant vessel JSW Mihirgad, a 122-meter long vessel safely entered the New Mangalore harbour during the wee hours of Saturday, thanks to timely assistance by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

Merchant vessel JSW Mihirgad, a 122-meter long vessel safely entered the New Mangalore harbour during the wee hours of Saturday, thanks to timely assistance by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The merchant shop suffered a total power failure on its maiden voyage from Kochi, Kerala to Jaigarh, Rajasthan, leaving it dead in the water. Manned by 14 crew, on Thursday, the ship suffered the failure of all three Diesel Alternators, bedsides it's a backup generator. This necessitated the ship to drop anchor about 4.5 nautical miles off Kasargod, Kerala and raise a distress call. In the absence of propulsion, lighting, ventilation, caused by total power failure, the crew was also unable to prepare food or water through its onboard systems. Also Read | Exclusive: India, Pak NSA to be in Dushanbe next week for SCO NSAs meet Based on this information, ICG District Headquarters at New Mangalore conducted a situational assessment for the safe embarkation of the technical team from M/s Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), which build the ship. #SafetyofSeafarers @IndiaCoastGuard prompt action averted potential disaster. Defect onboard MV JSW Mihirgad rectified by CSL engineers transferred per #ICG helicopter. Vessel safely entered #NewMangalore harbour today morning under own propulsion @shipmin_india @DefenceMinIndia pic.twitter.com/Qt1wpOkmjF — Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) June 19, 2021 × However, due to adverse sea conditions with the high swell, usage of boats was ruled out and helicopters were considered a safe option. On Friday, ICG Helicopter CG 817 airlifted the deputed technical staff from New Mangalore for rendering assistance, performing repairs to the ship. ICGS Varaha, which was in the area was also deployed immediately on Friday to monitor the situation and provide towing assistance, in case the vessel starts drifting towards the coast, due to rough weather. Besides continuously tracking the vessel through its Coastal Security Network, the ICG team that got onboard had rectified the technical issue, thus saving 14 lives and averting a potential environmental disaster.

Merchant vessel hit by total power failure rectified at sea by Indian Coast Guard

After almost four days and nights of continuous firefighting by two Indian Coast Guard ships and Sri Lankan tugs, the blaze on Container Ship&nbsp;&nbsp;MV X-Press Pearl has considerably reduced.

It has been observed that the vessel’s hull is intact (indicating structural stability) and that the draught/Draft remains uncharged (indicating that the vessel has not gone lower owing to increase in weight). Aerial surveillance done on Friday by ICG Dornier aircraft does not revel any oil spill.&nbsp;

Efforts of ICG vessels Vaibhav and Vajra, assisted by Sri Lankan tugs has restricted the flames to the rear portion of the ship, while white fumes are emanating from the mid portion. The emanation of white fumes from the mid-region possibly mean the lack of available combustible material. By preventing the fire from re-spreading to the forward portion of the ship, the anchor-chain link has been prevented from parting.&nbsp;

Amid the challenges posed by rough seas and strong winds, the ICG vessels are making multiple runs along the length of the affected ship for spraying water and foam at high speeds. It is crucial to also maintain adequate distance owing to the dangers posed by burning containers or mangled parts that my fall off the burning ship.&nbsp;

Besides, 1486 containers of chemicals and other hazardous International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code(IMDG), the vessel contains 322MT of fuel. To augment the firefighting and deal with a possible oil spill, ICG Pollution response vessel Samudra Prahari is expected to reach the location on Saturday.

It was on&nbsp;May 20, Thursday that a fire first broke out on the said ship, following which it was brought under control by Sri Lankan Port authorities by the next day. However, on Tuesday morning(25th May),the fire and explosions started recurring and owing to rough weather nearly 10 containers are said to have fallen overboard.&nbsp;

After almost four days and nights of continuous firefighting by two Indian Coast Guard ships and Sri Lankan tugs, the blaze on Container Ship MV X-Press Pearl has considerably reduced.

After almost four days and nights of continuous firefighting by two Indian Coast Guard ships and Sri Lankan tugs, the blaze on Container Ship MV X-Press Pearl has considerably reduced. It has been observed that the vessel’s hull is intact (indicating structural stability) and that the draught/Draft remains uncharged (indicating that the vessel has not gone lower owing to increase in weight). Aerial surveillance done on Friday by ICG Dornier aircraft does not revel any oil spill. Efforts of ICG vessels Vaibhav and Vajra, assisted by Sri Lankan tugs has restricted the flames to the rear portion of the ship, while white fumes are emanating from the mid portion. The emanation of white fumes from the mid-region possibly mean the lack of available combustible material. By preventing the fire from re-spreading to the forward portion of the ship, the anchor-chain link has been prevented from parting. Amid the challenges posed by rough seas and strong winds, the ICG vessels are making multiple runs along the length of the affected ship for spraying water and foam at high speeds. It is crucial to also maintain adequate distance owing to the dangers posed by burning containers or mangled parts that my fall off the burning ship. Besides, 1486 containers of chemicals and other hazardous International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code(IMDG), the vessel contains 322MT of fuel. To augment the firefighting and deal with a possible oil spill, ICG Pollution response vessel Samudra Prahari is expected to reach the location on Saturday. It was on May 20, Thursday that a fire first broke out on the said ship, following which it was brought under control by Sri Lankan Port authorities by the next day. However, on Tuesday morning(25th May),the fire and explosions started recurring and owing to rough weather nearly 10 containers are said to have fallen overboard.

Colombo ship fire: Hull intact, Fire considerably reduced and no oil spill says ICG

With a low-pressure area off Andamans expected to intensify into Cyclone ‘Yaas’ after the weekend, the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) has already swung into action.

Coast Guard assets on sea, air and land are relaying alert messages in English and Indian languages to alert merchant vessels, fishing vessels, and other vessels across the length of India’s East Coast - from Tamil Nadu to West Bengal.&nbsp;

Coast Guard Disaster Relief Teams (DRTs) with inflatable boats, life buoys and lifejackets are standby for undertaking Disaster response operations. Medical teams and&nbsp;ambulances have also been kept standby for swift mobilisation.

Besides closely monitoring the weather system, alerting vessels at sea, the ICG is also alerting anchored vessels to adopt adequate safety measures.

“Navtex warnings are being issued regularly and International safety Net (ISN) has been activated to alert the vessels in/ transiting through area. Port authorities, oil rig operators, shipping, fisheries authorities and fishermen associations have been informed about the likelihood of cyclone formation and a close liaison and coordination for safety of boats, vessels and fixed platforms is being maintained” said the statement from the ICG.&nbsp;

Despite the fishing ban being in-force across India’s east coast, the ICG ’s aircraft and ships are broadcasting information asking fishermen to return to shore.&nbsp;&nbsp;ICG has also requested respective State/ UT governments to sensitize fishers and carry out accounting of fishing boats present in harbour and maintan a close liaison.

As per IMD forecast, a low pressure area is very likely to form over North Andaman Sea and adjoining East Central Bay of Bengal around May 22. It is very likely to intensify into a Cyclonic storm in next 72 hours.

It is predicted to move North-westwards and reach Odisha - West Bengal coasts around 26 May 21 evening. The system will be named 'Yaas' once it develops into a&nbsp;cyclone.&nbsp;Cyclones that form in India’s East Coast have an impact across states and Union territories such as Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar islands, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal.&nbsp;

Over the last one week, the Indian Coast guard and Indian Navy have been engaged in monitoring, search and rescue operations across India’s West Coast, that was struck by a very severe cyclone ‘Tauktae’. The effects of this cyclone were felt in Lakshadweep islands, Kerala, South Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa, and in Gujarat where it made landfall.&nbsp;

With a low-pressure area off Andamans expected to intensify into Cyclone ‘Yaas’ after the weekend, the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) has already swung into action. Coast Guard assets on sea, air and land are relaying alert messages in English and Indian languages to alert merchant vessels, fishing vessels, and other vessels across the length of India’s East Coast - from Tamil Nadu to West Bengal.

With a low-pressure area off Andamans expected to intensify into Cyclone ‘Yaas’ after the weekend, the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) has already swung into action. Coast Guard assets on sea, air and land are relaying alert messages in English and Indian languages to alert merchant vessels, fishing vessels, and other vessels across the length of India’s East Coast - from Tamil Nadu to West Bengal. Coast Guard Disaster Relief Teams (DRTs) with inflatable boats, life buoys and lifejackets are standby for undertaking Disaster response operations. Medical teams and ambulances have also been kept standby for swift mobilisation. Besides closely monitoring the weather system, alerting vessels at sea, the ICG is also alerting anchored vessels to adopt adequate safety measures. “Navtex warnings are being issued regularly and International safety Net (ISN) has been activated to alert the vessels in/ transiting through area. Port authorities, oil rig operators, shipping, fisheries authorities and fishermen associations have been informed about the likelihood of cyclone formation and a close liaison and coordination for safety of boats, vessels and fixed platforms is being maintained” said the statement from the ICG. Despite the fishing ban being in-force across India’s east coast, the ICG ’s aircraft and ships are broadcasting information asking fishermen to return to shore. ICG has also requested respective State/ UT governments to sensitize fishers and carry out accounting of fishing boats present in harbour and maintan a close liaison. As per IMD forecast, a low pressure area is very likely to form over North Andaman Sea and adjoining East Central Bay of Bengal around May 22. It is very likely to intensify into a Cyclonic storm in next 72 hours. It is predicted to move North-westwards and reach Odisha - West Bengal coasts around 26 May 21 evening. The system will be named 'Yaas' once it develops into a cyclone. Cyclones that form in India’s East Coast have an impact across states and Union territories such as Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar islands, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal. Over the last one week, the Indian Coast guard and Indian Navy have been engaged in monitoring, search and rescue operations across India’s West Coast, that was struck by a very severe cyclone ‘Tauktae’. The effects of this cyclone were felt in Lakshadweep islands, Kerala, South Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa, and in Gujarat where it made landfall.

Indian Coast Guard teams on stand-by, fishermen, sailors alerted for Cyclone ‘Yaas’ on East Coast

With a very severe cyclonic storm 'Tauktae' predicted to make landfall near the Gujarat Coast on Tuesday morning (May 18), the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has confirmed that it has ensured the safe return of 5,600 boats, rescued six personnel, and rerouted 335 merchant vessels.

With the storm having crossed the southern states of Kerala, Karnataka, Goa and Lakshadweep islands on India’s West Coast, the maritime force has said that there has been no loss of life at sea. The Coast Guard also added that their pre-emptive measures are focused on Maharashtra and Gujarat, which are expected to bear the brunt of the landfall.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/four-dead-as-powerful-cyclone-heads-for-india-385429" hreflang="en">Four dead as powerful cyclone heads for India</a>

Based on information from the fisheries authorities of the respective states, the ICG has said that all boats were accounted for and are safely tucked in harbour, while response operations for Tug Alliance and MV Coromondel, both off the coast of Karnataka are underway.&nbsp;

ICG Remote Operating Stations are constantly relaying weather alert messages in Indian languages on MMB radio for the seafarers and fishermen. In addition to this, Navtex warnings are being issued regularly and International Safety Net (ISN) has been activated to alert the vessels in and transiting through the area.

Ships at anchorage have also been advised to take shelter and necessary safety measures. Port authorities, Oil rig operators, shipping, fisheries authorities and fishermen associations have been forewarned about the cyclone and a close liaison and coordination for the safety of these platforms are being maintained.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-lockdown-tightened-further-night-and-weekend-curfew-to-remain-in-place-385089" hreflang="en">Tamil Nadu: Lockdown tightened further, night and weekend curfew to remain in place</a>

According to the agency, 40 Coast Guard Disaster Relief Teams (DRTs) with inflatable boats, Lifebuoys and lifejackets are on standby all along the western coast for undertaking disaster response operations. Medical teams and ambulances have also been kept on standby for swift mobilisation.

Right from May 11, when there were indications of a storm forming near the Lakshadweep region, ICG had geared up its preparation towards the preventive and response measures on the Western coast including Lakshadweep islands as well as the adjacent coastal states.

All the ashore, afloat and aviation units were put on high alert and by the time ‘Tauktae’, eventually formed in Lakshadweep seas, ICG Ships and aircraft had already alerted fishing boats as well as merchant vessels in the possible route of the storm.

The massive deployment of ICG assets towards preventive measures for cyclone ‘Tauktae’ has translated into 37 ship days and 75 aircraft hours at sea, said the coast guard.

With a very severe cyclonic storm 'Tauktae' predicted to make landfall near the Gujarat Coast on Tuesday morning (May 18), the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has confirmed that it has ensured the safe return of 5,600 boats, rescued six personnel, and rerouted 335 merchant vessels.

With a very severe cyclonic storm 'Tauktae' predicted to make landfall near the Gujarat Coast on Tuesday morning (May 18), the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has confirmed that it has ensured the safe return of 5,600 boats, rescued six personnel, and rerouted 335 merchant vessels. With the storm having crossed the southern states of Kerala, Karnataka, Goa and Lakshadweep islands on India’s West Coast, the maritime force has said that there has been no loss of life at sea. The Coast Guard also added that their pre-emptive measures are focused on Maharashtra and Gujarat, which are expected to bear the brunt of the landfall. Also read | Four dead as powerful cyclone heads for India Based on information from the fisheries authorities of the respective states, the ICG has said that all boats were accounted for and are safely tucked in harbour, while response operations for Tug Alliance and MV Coromondel, both off the coast of Karnataka are underway. ICG Remote Operating Stations are constantly relaying weather alert messages in Indian languages on MMB radio for the seafarers and fishermen. In addition to this, Navtex warnings are being issued regularly and International Safety Net (ISN) has been activated to alert the vessels in and transiting through the area. Ships at anchorage have also been advised to take shelter and necessary safety measures. Port authorities, Oil rig operators, shipping, fisheries authorities and fishermen associations have been forewarned about the cyclone and a close liaison and coordination for the safety of these platforms are being maintained. Also read | Tamil Nadu: Lockdown tightened further, night and weekend curfew to remain in place According to the agency, 40 Coast Guard Disaster Relief Teams (DRTs) with inflatable boats, Lifebuoys and lifejackets are on standby all along the western coast for undertaking disaster response operations. Medical teams and ambulances have also been kept on standby for swift mobilisation. Right from May 11, when there were indications of a storm forming near the Lakshadweep region, ICG had geared up its preparation towards the preventive and response measures on the Western coast including Lakshadweep islands as well as the adjacent coastal states. All the ashore, afloat and aviation units were put on high alert and by the time ‘Tauktae’, eventually formed in Lakshadweep seas, ICG Ships and aircraft had already alerted fishing boats as well as merchant vessels in the possible route of the storm. The massive deployment of ICG assets towards preventive measures for cyclone ‘Tauktae’ has translated into 37 ship days and 75 aircraft hours at sea, said the coast guard.

Cyclone Tauktae: No loss of life at sea, 5600 boats back to safety, says Indian Coast Guard

Indian Coast Guard over weekend thwarted an attempt by Sri Lankan boats to smuggle narcotic drugs worth USD 286.5 million into India from Lakshadweep. As per the coast guard, the smugglers dumped five bags of contraband weighing nearly 260 kg in water after they realised they couldn't escape from Indian Coast Guard ships and aircraft.

Based on initial investigation, the Coast guard has said that the SLFB Akarsha Duwa was at sea for over a fortnight

After the boats were intercepted at sea, the behaviour of occupants and their misleading statement gave rise to suspicion. After tactful interrogation by the Indian Coast, the occupants of the boat admitted that they had been involved in narcotics smuggling.

<img alt="Indian Coast Guard intercepts Sri Lankan ships with narcotics" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c58acb00-d3d2-4f79-89f4-108e9191b48b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Indian%20coast%20guard%20Sri%20Lanka.jpg" />

Owing to rough sea conditions off Minicoy Islands, the boats were brought to Vizhinjam near Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday (7th March) for further interrogation by the security agencies.&nbsp;

<img alt="Indian Coast Guard intercepts Sri Lankan ships with narcotics" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="02ae2ae2-5d37-4c1e-930b-033de3925f6a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Indian%20Coast%20Guard%20smuggling.jpg" />

Post joint investigation at Vizhinjam, SLFB Akarsha Duwa along with 6 Sri Lankan crew was detained. Two other Sri Lankan boats with crew were released for a handover to Sri Lankan authorities for further investigation, due to considerable quantity of fish stock onboard.

A similar attempt was thwarted in November last year, when ICG &nbsp;apprehended Sri Lankan fishing boat ‘Shenaya Duwa’ off Kanyakumari, carrying narcotics worth around USD 136 &nbsp;million in the international market.

Indian Coast Guard over weekend thwarted an attempt by Sri Lankan boats to smuggle narcotic drugs worth USD 286.5 million into India from Lakshadweep. As per the coast guard, the smugglers dumped five bags of contraband weighing nearly 260 kg in water after they realised they couldn't escape from Indian Coast Guard ships and aircraft.

Indian Coast Guard over weekend thwarted an attempt by Sri Lankan boats to smuggle narcotic drugs worth USD 286.5 million into India from Lakshadweep. As per the coast guard, the smugglers dumped five bags of contraband weighing nearly 260 kg in water after they realised they couldn't escape from Indian Coast Guard ships and aircraft. Based on initial investigation, the Coast guard has said that the SLFB Akarsha Duwa was at sea for over a fortnight After the boats were intercepted at sea, the behaviour of occupants and their misleading statement gave rise to suspicion. After tactful interrogation by the Indian Coast, the occupants of the boat admitted that they had been involved in narcotics smuggling. Owing to rough sea conditions off Minicoy Islands, the boats were brought to Vizhinjam near Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday (7th March) for further interrogation by the security agencies. Post joint investigation at Vizhinjam, SLFB Akarsha Duwa along with 6 Sri Lankan crew was detained. Two other Sri Lankan boats with crew were released for a handover to Sri Lankan authorities for further investigation, due to considerable quantity of fish stock onboard. A similar attempt was thwarted in November last year, when ICG apprehended Sri Lankan fishing boat ‘Shenaya Duwa’ off Kanyakumari, carrying narcotics worth around USD 136 million in the international market.

Indian Coast Guard intercepts Sri Lankan boats, seizes narcotics worth millions

India's coast guard rescued 81 Rohingya refugees from a boat adrift in the Andaman Sea, India's external affairs ministry said on Thursday.&nbsp;

"The engine of the boat failed on February 15 and since then it has been drifting," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said in a press briefing.&nbsp;

Watch | Myanmar: Rohingyas condemn ouster of democratically-elected govt

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"Due to the severe conditions, we understand that eight occupants have died and one of the occupants had been missing since February 15."&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-refugee-agency-calls-for-rescue-of-rohingya-stranded-at-sea-365485">UN refugee agency calls for rescue of Rohingya stranded at sea</a>

The United Nations on Wednesday raised an alarm of the Rohingya refugees stranded in a boat in the Andaman Sea without food or water.&nbsp;

The boat's engine broke down after four days at sea and the refugees on board had run out of food and water with several people gone ill and facing extreme dehydration at the time they were rescued, the spokesperson added.&nbsp;

Two coast guard ships were sent to rescue the migrants, 23 of whom were children.&nbsp;

"When we learnt of the boat in distress, we immediately dispatched two coast guard ships to provide food, water and medical assistance to the occupants. Seven of them were administered IV fluids," &nbsp;Srivastava said.&nbsp;

About 90 Rohingya refugees started their journey nearly two weeks ago and the UN and rights groups had said that these migrants are suffering from acute dehydration and were ill.

India's coast guard rescued 81 Rohingya refugees from a boat adrift in the Andaman Sea, India's external affairs ministry said on Thursday. "The engine of the boat failed on February 15 and since then it has been drifting," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said in a press briefing.

India's coast guard rescued 81 Rohingya refugees from a boat adrift in the Andaman Sea, India's external affairs ministry said on Thursday. "The engine of the boat failed on February 15 and since then it has been drifting," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said in a press briefing. Watch | Myanmar: Rohingyas condemn ouster of democratically-elected govt "Due to the severe conditions, we understand that eight occupants have died and one of the occupants had been missing since February 15." Also read | UN refugee agency calls for rescue of Rohingya stranded at sea The United Nations on Wednesday raised an alarm of the Rohingya refugees stranded in a boat in the Andaman Sea without food or water. The boat's engine broke down after four days at sea and the refugees on board had run out of food and water with several people gone ill and facing extreme dehydration at the time they were rescued, the spokesperson added. Two coast guard ships were sent to rescue the migrants, 23 of whom were children. "When we learnt of the boat in distress, we immediately dispatched two coast guard ships to provide food, water and medical assistance to the occupants. Seven of them were administered IV fluids," Srivastava said. About 90 Rohingya refugees started their journey nearly two weeks ago and the UN and rights groups had said that these migrants are suffering from acute dehydration and were ill.

Indian coast guard rescues 81 Rohingya refugees stranded on boat in Andaman Sea

The Indian Coast Guard Commissioned the 105-ton, indigenously-built Interceptor Boat C-453, which would join the East region fleet for patrolling the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone(EEZ). This vessel was the penultimate one in the series of 18 vessels, being built by M/s Larsen &amp; Toubro Ltd.&nbsp;

ICGS C-453, the 27.80meters long Interceptor Boat has a Max Speed of 45 knots (85 kmph) and is capable of undertaking multifarious tasks including Surveillance, Interdiction, close coast patrol, Search and Rescue, helping boats in distress. 
 
The quick reaction ability coupled with modern equipment and advanced navigation and communication systems provides her with the capability to swiftly respond to any maritime situation at very short notice. &nbsp;ICGS C-453 is commanded by Assistant Commandant Animesh Sharma and will be based at Chennai under the operational control of Commander, Coast Guard Region (East). 
 
<img alt="Interceptor Boat C-453" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bc21c02d-df29-46f6-8118-944461151f59" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/C-453-vessel-boat.JPG" />

With C-453 having joined the fleet, the ICG strength stands at 157 Ships &amp; Boats and 62 Aircraft. Further,40 Ships are at various stages of construction at different Shipyards in India and 16 Advanced Light Helicopters MK III manufactured by M/s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bengaluru is also to be inducted into the force.&nbsp;

The vessel was commissioned by Smt. Leena Nandan, IAS, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, in the presence of Shri Jiwesh Nandan, IAS, Additional Secretary, Department of Defence. Coast Guard Director General Krishnaswamy Natarajan, senior officials of the force and of L&amp;T shipyard were present.&nbsp;

It was on February 1st that the ICG stepped into its 45th year of service. Their force has grown from operating seven surface platforms in 1978 to fourth-largest Coast Guard in the world and are slated to have 200 surface platforms and 80 aircraft by 2025. &nbsp;

Amid the pandemic year, the Coast Guard has been deploying 50 ships and 12 aircraft every day to maintain vigil within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone(EEZ), which is approximately over 2.3 million square kms.

The Coast Guard’s actions at sea enabled seizure of contraband worth about ₹ 1,500 Crore and apprehension of more than 10 foreign fishing boats with 80 miscreants illegally operating in the Indian EEZ in the bygone year.

The Indian Coast Guard Commissioned the 105-ton, indigenously-built Interceptor Boat C-453, which would join the East region fleet for patrolling the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone(EEZ).

The Indian Coast Guard Commissioned the 105-ton, indigenously-built Interceptor Boat C-453, which would join the East region fleet for patrolling the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone(EEZ). This vessel was the penultimate one in the series of 18 vessels, being built by M/s Larsen & Toubro Ltd. ICGS C-453, the 27.80meters long Interceptor Boat has a Max Speed of 45 knots (85 kmph) and is capable of undertaking multifarious tasks including Surveillance, Interdiction, close coast patrol, Search and Rescue, helping boats in distress. The quick reaction ability coupled with modern equipment and advanced navigation and communication systems provides her with the capability to swiftly respond to any maritime situation at very short notice. ICGS C-453 is commanded by Assistant Commandant Animesh Sharma and will be based at Chennai under the operational control of Commander, Coast Guard Region (East). With C-453 having joined the fleet, the ICG strength stands at 157 Ships & Boats and 62 Aircraft. Further,40 Ships are at various stages of construction at different Shipyards in India and 16 Advanced Light Helicopters MK III manufactured by M/s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bengaluru is also to be inducted into the force. The vessel was commissioned by Smt. Leena Nandan, IAS, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, in the presence of Shri Jiwesh Nandan, IAS, Additional Secretary, Department of Defence. Coast Guard Director General Krishnaswamy Natarajan, senior officials of the force and of L&T shipyard were present. It was on February 1st that the ICG stepped into its 45th year of service. Their force has grown from operating seven surface platforms in 1978 to fourth-largest Coast Guard in the world and are slated to have 200 surface platforms and 80 aircraft by 2025. Amid the pandemic year, the Coast Guard has been deploying 50 ships and 12 aircraft every day to maintain vigil within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone(EEZ), which is approximately over 2.3 million square kms. The Coast Guard’s actions at sea enabled seizure of contraband worth about ₹ 1,500 Crore and apprehension of more than 10 foreign fishing boats with 80 miscreants illegally operating in the Indian EEZ in the bygone year.

Indian Coast Guard commissions 105-ton indigenous Interceptor Boat C-453 for Eastern Fleet 

At least three sailors were missing while one injured crewman was rescued after a fire raged through an offshore supply vessel, Greatship Rohini around 170 kms off Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, here on Saturday. 
 
According to an Indian Coast Guard spokesperson, the blaze broke out on the Greatship Rohini around this morning when it was close to the ONGC`s Bombay High NQO platform. 
 
On getting the information, the ICG diverted an offshore patrol vessel Samarth to the location and an ICG Dornier aircraft flew to the spot for an aerial assessment of the emergency. 
 
The ICG ship reached the vicinity of the fire-ravaged vessel around 13.30 hrs this afternoon while another ship, MV Albatross-5 pulled out the Greatship Rohini to a safe distance from the NQO ONGC platform rig. 
 
ICGS Samarth along with another OSV Priya-27 launched the fire-fighting operations with its advanced External Fire Fighting System and created a boundary cooling to control the spread of the blaze. 
 
Owing to excessive heat and some, the Greatship Rohini crew were unable to enter the engine room where the blaze started but an ICGS Samarth team boarded her for further assessment of the situation. 
 
The ICG said that while 3 sailors are still missing and believed to be trapped in the ship`s blazing engine room, the injured sailor was airlifted by an ONGC helicopter to Mumbai for treatment. 
 
Till 2000 hrs on Saturday, the fire-fighting operations were still underway on the Greatship Rohini and the ICGS also dispatched a pollution control vessel to the location, and further details are awaited on the mishap. 
&nbsp;

At least three sailors were missing while one injured crewman was rescued after a fire raged through an offshore supply vessel, Greatship Rohini around 170 kms off Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, here on Saturday.

At least three sailors were missing while one injured crewman was rescued after a fire raged through an offshore supply vessel, Greatship Rohini around 170 kms off Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, here on Saturday. According to an Indian Coast Guard spokesperson, the blaze broke out on the Greatship Rohini around this morning when it was close to the ONGC`s Bombay High NQO platform. On getting the information, the ICG diverted an offshore patrol vessel Samarth to the location and an ICG Dornier aircraft flew to the spot for an aerial assessment of the emergency. The ICG ship reached the vicinity of the fire-ravaged vessel around 13.30 hrs this afternoon while another ship, MV Albatross-5 pulled out the Greatship Rohini to a safe distance from the NQO ONGC platform rig. ICGS Samarth along with another OSV Priya-27 launched the fire-fighting operations with its advanced External Fire Fighting System and created a boundary cooling to control the spread of the blaze. Owing to excessive heat and some, the Greatship Rohini crew were unable to enter the engine room where the blaze started but an ICGS Samarth team boarded her for further assessment of the situation. The ICG said that while 3 sailors are still missing and believed to be trapped in the ship`s blazing engine room, the injured sailor was airlifted by an ONGC helicopter to Mumbai for treatment. Till 2000 hrs on Saturday, the fire-fighting operations were still underway on the Greatship Rohini and the ICGS also dispatched a pollution control vessel to the location, and further details are awaited on the mishap.

3 sailors missing, 1 hurt as fire breaks out in ship in Arabian Sea

The Indian Coast Guard, the fourth largest in the world, celebrated its 45th Raising Day on Monday. Since its inception, ICG has developed into a formidable force with 156 ships and 62 aircraft in its inventory.

Indian Coast Guard steps into its 45th year, held celebratory event in Chennai

Ahead of its 45th Raising Day on Monday, February 1st, the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) has said that their force has grown from operating seven surface platforms in 1978 to operating 156 ships and 62 aircraft as on date. The Indian Coast Guard is the fourth largest Coast Guard in the world and is slated to have 200 surface platforms and 80 aircraft by 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Amid the pandemic year, the Coast Guard has been deploying 50 ships and 12 aircraft every day to maintain vigil within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone(EEZ), which is approximately over 2.3 million square kms.

The Coast Guard’s actions at sea enabled seizure of contraband worth about ₹ 1,500 Crore and apprehension of more than 10 foreign fishing boats with 80 miscreants illegally operating in the Indian EEZ in the bygone year.&nbsp;

6,000 fishing boats with about 40,000 fishermen were escorted to safe harbours during the passage of 11 cyclones in the previous year, this is in line with the ICG’s ‘Preventive and Measured Response’&nbsp;stance of operations introduced around 2019.&nbsp;

Some of the highlights of the bygone year have been - dousing a raging fire onboard the 333 M long Very Large Crude Carrier MT New Diamond with about 3 Lakh Metric Tonnes of crude oil off Sri Lanka, thereby averting a major ecological disaster.&nbsp;

In addition to this, ICG also provided Pollution Response assistance to Mauritius during the grounding of Merchant Vessel Wakashio and provided 30Tons of Pollution Response equipment, besides training.&nbsp;

In consonance with the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘SAGAR’, Security And Growth of All in the Region, besides rescue and aid, ICG is also collaborating with littoral countries to combat transnational maritime crimes and enhance maritime safety.&nbsp;

ICG conducted SAR Exercise-2020 (SAREX-2020) to validate the existing strategy for undertaking Mass Rescue Operations. The service is also working in close coordination with Central and State agencies to put in place a robust Coastal Security mechanism

Ahead of its 45th Raising Day on Monday, February 1st, the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) has said that their force has grown from operating seven surface platforms in 1978 to operating 156 ships and 62 aircraft as on date.

Ahead of its 45th Raising Day on Monday, February 1st, the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) has said that their force has grown from operating seven surface platforms in 1978 to operating 156 ships and 62 aircraft as on date. The Indian Coast Guard is the fourth largest Coast Guard in the world and is slated to have 200 surface platforms and 80 aircraft by 2025. Amid the pandemic year, the Coast Guard has been deploying 50 ships and 12 aircraft every day to maintain vigil within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone(EEZ), which is approximately over 2.3 million square kms. The Coast Guard’s actions at sea enabled seizure of contraband worth about ₹ 1,500 Crore and apprehension of more than 10 foreign fishing boats with 80 miscreants illegally operating in the Indian EEZ in the bygone year. 6,000 fishing boats with about 40,000 fishermen were escorted to safe harbours during the passage of 11 cyclones in the previous year, this is in line with the ICG’s ‘Preventive and Measured Response’ stance of operations introduced around 2019. Some of the highlights of the bygone year have been - dousing a raging fire onboard the 333 M long Very Large Crude Carrier MT New Diamond with about 3 Lakh Metric Tonnes of crude oil off Sri Lanka, thereby averting a major ecological disaster. In addition to this, ICG also provided Pollution Response assistance to Mauritius during the grounding of Merchant Vessel Wakashio and provided 30Tons of Pollution Response equipment, besides training. In consonance with the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘SAGAR’, Security And Growth of All in the Region, besides rescue and aid, ICG is also collaborating with littoral countries to combat transnational maritime crimes and enhance maritime safety. ICG conducted SAR Exercise-2020 (SAREX-2020) to validate the existing strategy for undertaking Mass Rescue Operations. The service is also working in close coordination with Central and State agencies to put in place a robust Coastal Security mechanism

6,000 boats and 40,000 fishermen escorted safely to harbours in 2020, says Indian Coast Guard

India Navy conducted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-to-kick-start-second-edition-of-coastal-defence-exercise-sea-vigil-on-tuesday-356108">"Exercise Sea Vigil"</a> from January 12-13 which included the entire coastline and EEZ of the country.

The exercise involved the deployment of the entire coastal security apparatus and more than 110 surface assets of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-vietnam-navy-to-undertake-passex-exercises-in-south-china-sea-352151">Indian Navy</a> and Coast Guard including the deployment of marine police and Customs.

"Security mechanism of ports was also validated during the exercise and the crisis management plans of all ports were assessed," the Navy said.

State police teams, Indian Navy marine commandos and commandos from National Security Guard(NSG)&nbsp;also took part to tackle acts of maritime terrorism. &nbsp;

The exercise validated technical surveillance infrastructure in the National Command, Control, Communication and Intelligence (NC3I) Network.

The Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) at Gurugram and its various nodes across IN and CG stations were exercised," it said.

The Navy said the envisaged objectives of the exercise were met by the whole-hearted participation of all stakeholders.

India Navy conducted "Exercise Sea Vigil" from January 12-13 which included the entire coastline and EEZ of the country. The exercise involved the deployment of the entire coastal security apparatus and more than 110 surface assets of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard including the deployment of marine police and Customs.

India Navy conducted "Exercise Sea Vigil" from January 12-13 which included the entire coastline and EEZ of the country. The exercise involved the deployment of the entire coastal security apparatus and more than 110 surface assets of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard including the deployment of marine police and Customs. "Security mechanism of ports was also validated during the exercise and the crisis management plans of all ports were assessed," the Navy said. State police teams, Indian Navy marine commandos and commandos from National Security Guard(NSG) also took part to tackle acts of maritime terrorism. The exercise validated technical surveillance infrastructure in the National Command, Control, Communication and Intelligence (NC3I) Network. The Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) at Gurugram and its various nodes across IN and CG stations were exercised," it said. The Navy said the envisaged objectives of the exercise were met by the whole-hearted participation of all stakeholders.

Exercise Sea Vigil: Navy, Coast Guard, NSG commandos tackle maritime terrorism

The Indian Coast Guard launched a 98-metre offshore patrol vessel ‘Vigraha’ at a private shipyard in Kattupalli, north of Chennai, in the presence of Dr TV Somanathan, IAS, Secretary (Expenditure), Ministry of Finance. Director General Indian Coast Guard K Natarajan and Inspector General Region East S. Paramesh were also present with other dignitaries and officers. This is the last in the series of seven vessels that was designed and built exclusively for the Coast Guard by Larsen and Toubro Shipbuilding as a part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative.&nbsp;

The 98-m long ship has a displacement of 2100 tons, is capable of achieving a top speed of 26 knots and has an endurance of 5000 nautical miles and the ability to stay at sea for 20 days without replenishment. Vigraha, also known as (Yard-45007) is likely to be inducted into Indian Coast Guard in March 2021 after completion of extensive trials and testing of the on-board equipment and machinery. Once inducted, the vessel would serve the East Region, from Vishakapatnam, under the leadership of IG S.Paramesh in the Region East.&nbsp;

During the commissioning of an Interceptor boat at the East region, IG S. Paramesh had told WION that East region has a fleet of 10 Interceptor boats, eight offshore patrol vessels, 15 fast patrol vessels, besides five Dornier aircraft and three Chetak choppers.&nbsp;

Launching of the vessel marks an important milestone, as the vessel touches the water for the first time. In India, ships have historically been launched with a Puja ceremony that dedicates the ship to the almighty and blessings are sought for the ship and her crew. The ceremony involves a lady breaking a coconut on the bow of the vessel, along with Puja and festivities. As per Maritime traditions the ship was launched by Smt Hema Somanathan, Spouse of Dr TV Somanathan, the chief guest.&nbsp;

The ship has been fitted with advanced navigation and communication equipment, sensors and machinery that are capable of operating in tropical climates. The ship has been designed to carry integral Twin Engine Helicopter which will enhance its operational, surveillance, search and rescue capability. Armed with a 30mm 2A42 Naval Gun and two 12.7mm guns, the ship would be utilised for day and night surveillance, besides anti-terror, anti-smuggling operations In the Exclusive Economic Zone and for coastal security.&nbsp;

Despite the restriction and constraints faced amid the pandemic, the vessel is said to have been launched in a timely manner and is expected to be operational as per schedule. The ship’s expected life span is more than 25 years and is meant to be manned by 102 crew, which includes 14 officers, 88 subordinate officers and enrolled personnel. New OPVs and other vessels being inducted into the Indian Coast Guard are meant to replace ageing ships (that served for over 25-30 years) in the fleet.&nbsp;

At an earlier occasion, K Natarajan, Director General, Indian Coast Guard had said, “The Coast Guard began in 1977 with two vessels and five boats. We have made swift progress since then with the support of PSUs and private shipyards and have over 146 surface platforms and 62 aircraft currently. The Interceptor boats are our workhorses and OPV form a strong backbone. We have a daily deployment of 50 ships and 10 aircraft for monitoring and securing our 7516 coastlines and Exclusive Economic Zone of over 2 million sq kms.”&nbsp;

As a part of an expansion, modernisation drive, Coast Guard is planning to boost assets to 200 vessels and 100 aircraft by 2025.&nbsp;

The Indian Coast Guard is the fourth largest in the world and stands larger than many navies. The ICG also has bilateral and multilateral agreements with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Seychelles, Maldives etc.

The Indian Coast Guard launched a 98-metre offshore patrol vessel ‘Vigraha’ at a private shipyard in Kattupalli, north of Chennai, in the presence of Dr TV Somanathan, IAS, Secretary (Expenditure), Ministry of Finance.

The Indian Coast Guard launched a 98-metre offshore patrol vessel ‘Vigraha’ at a private shipyard in Kattupalli, north of Chennai, in the presence of Dr TV Somanathan, IAS, Secretary (Expenditure), Ministry of Finance. Director General Indian Coast Guard K Natarajan and Inspector General Region East S. Paramesh were also present with other dignitaries and officers. This is the last in the series of seven vessels that was designed and built exclusively for the Coast Guard by Larsen and Toubro Shipbuilding as a part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The 98-m long ship has a displacement of 2100 tons, is capable of achieving a top speed of 26 knots and has an endurance of 5000 nautical miles and the ability to stay at sea for 20 days without replenishment. Vigraha, also known as (Yard-45007) is likely to be inducted into Indian Coast Guard in March 2021 after completion of extensive trials and testing of the on-board equipment and machinery. Once inducted, the vessel would serve the East Region, from Vishakapatnam, under the leadership of IG S.Paramesh in the Region East. During the commissioning of an Interceptor boat at the East region, IG S. Paramesh had told WION that East region has a fleet of 10 Interceptor boats, eight offshore patrol vessels, 15 fast patrol vessels, besides five Dornier aircraft and three Chetak choppers. Launching of the vessel marks an important milestone, as the vessel touches the water for the first time. In India, ships have historically been launched with a Puja ceremony that dedicates the ship to the almighty and blessings are sought for the ship and her crew. The ceremony involves a lady breaking a coconut on the bow of the vessel, along with Puja and festivities. As per Maritime traditions the ship was launched by Smt Hema Somanathan, Spouse of Dr TV Somanathan, the chief guest. The ship has been fitted with advanced navigation and communication equipment, sensors and machinery that are capable of operating in tropical climates. The ship has been designed to carry integral Twin Engine Helicopter which will enhance its operational, surveillance, search and rescue capability. Armed with a 30mm 2A42 Naval Gun and two 12.7mm guns, the ship would be utilised for day and night surveillance, besides anti-terror, anti-smuggling operations In the Exclusive Economic Zone and for coastal security. Despite the restriction and constraints faced amid the pandemic, the vessel is said to have been launched in a timely manner and is expected to be operational as per schedule. The ship’s expected life span is more than 25 years and is meant to be manned by 102 crew, which includes 14 officers, 88 subordinate officers and enrolled personnel. New OPVs and other vessels being inducted into the Indian Coast Guard are meant to replace ageing ships (that served for over 25-30 years) in the fleet. At an earlier occasion, K Natarajan, Director General, Indian Coast Guard had said, “The Coast Guard began in 1977 with two vessels and five boats. We have made swift progress since then with the support of PSUs and private shipyards and have over 146 surface platforms and 62 aircraft currently. The Interceptor boats are our workhorses and OPV form a strong backbone. We have a daily deployment of 50 ships and 10 aircraft for monitoring and securing our 7516 coastlines and Exclusive Economic Zone of over 2 million sq kms.” As a part of an expansion, modernisation drive, Coast Guard is planning to boost assets to 200 vessels and 100 aircraft by 2025. The Indian Coast Guard is the fourth largest in the world and stands larger than many navies. The ICG also has bilateral and multilateral agreements with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Seychelles, Maldives etc.

Chennai: Indian Coast Guard launches offshore patrol vessel 'Vigraha'

The Indian Coast Guard rescued 12 crew of MSV Krishna Sudama, a cargo vessel sinking in the Arabian Sea off the Gujarat coast, officials said on Sunday.

The Coast Guard received information on Saturday at 9 PM that there was flooding onboard the vessel 'MSV Krishna Sudama' around 10 nautical miles off the Okha coast.

MSV Krishna Sudama had sailed from Mundra on the morning of Saturday (September 26) and was proceeding to Djibouti, carrying 905 ton cargo consisting of rice and sugar. 
 
<img alt="Indian Coast Guard" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a4e67e-d78f-4333-b1d4-f34f1c4f16f1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-09-27%20at%2011.58.04%20AM.jpeg" />

"Search and rescue was immediately commenced wherein Coast Guard Ship C-411 sailed from Okha, C-161 was diverted from off Mundra, and MV Southern Robin in the vicinity of the area was diverted to render assistance," it said.

The Coast Guard ship C-411 arrived near the vessel in distress.

It undertook extensive search in the area and located the craft carrying 12 crew members who had abandoned the vessel as it was sinking due to flooding, it said.

The Coast Guard ship rescued all the 12 crew under challenging circumstances owing to night hours, floating dangerous debris and unfavourable weather conditions, it said.

"They were brought to Okha and are safe," the statement said.

The area where the incident took place is being monitored by the Coast Guard Ship C-161 so that it can combat any probable oil pollution incident that might result from leakage of fuel from the sunken dhow, it added.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Indian Coast Guard rescued 12 crew of MSV Krishna Sudama, a cargo vessel sinking in the Arabian Sea off the Gujarat coast, officials said on Sunday. The Coast Guard received information on Saturday at 9 PM that there was flooding onboard the vessel 'MSV Krishna Sudama' around 10 nautical miles off the Okha coast.

The Indian Coast Guard rescued 12 crew of MSV Krishna Sudama, a cargo vessel sinking in the Arabian Sea off the Gujarat coast, officials said on Sunday. The Coast Guard received information on Saturday at 9 PM that there was flooding onboard the vessel 'MSV Krishna Sudama' around 10 nautical miles off the Okha coast. MSV Krishna Sudama had sailed from Mundra on the morning of Saturday (September 26) and was proceeding to Djibouti, carrying 905 ton cargo consisting of rice and sugar. "Search and rescue was immediately commenced wherein Coast Guard Ship C-411 sailed from Okha, C-161 was diverted from off Mundra, and MV Southern Robin in the vicinity of the area was diverted to render assistance," it said. The Coast Guard ship C-411 arrived near the vessel in distress. It undertook extensive search in the area and located the craft carrying 12 crew members who had abandoned the vessel as it was sinking due to flooding, it said. The Coast Guard ship rescued all the 12 crew under challenging circumstances owing to night hours, floating dangerous debris and unfavourable weather conditions, it said. "They were brought to Okha and are safe," the statement said. The area where the incident took place is being monitored by the Coast Guard Ship C-161 so that it can combat any probable oil pollution incident that might result from leakage of fuel from the sunken dhow, it added. (With inputs from PTI)

Indian Coast Guard rescues 12 crew members of sinking cargo ship in Arabian Sea

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