VASCO: Indian Coast Guard celebrated its 44th Raising Day. ICG from a modest beginning with just seven surface platforms in1978, has grown into a formidable force with 146 ships and 62 aircraft in its inventory and likely to achieve a targeted force levels of 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft by 2025.
In a press release, Indian Coast Guard mentioned that as the fourth largest coast guard in the world, ICG has played a significant role in securing the Indian coasts and enforcing the regulations within the Maritime Zones of India.
The traditional Coast Guard Day Reception ceremony hosted by DIG Himanshu Nautiyal, Commander Coast Guard Goa, at Coast Guard District Headquarters, Vasco was graced by Governor Satya Pal Malik, Chief Secretary, FOGA and other senior officials of government and armed forces.
True to its motto “Vayam Rakshamah” meaning “We Protect”, the service has to its credit, saving of 9,700 lives and apprehending 13,200 miscreants since inception in 1977.
On an average, Coast Guard saves one precious life every second day at sea. The President of India, Vice President, Prime Minister and Defence Minister in their message congratulated the Indian Coast Guard on completion of 43 glorious years of yeoman service to the Nation and appreciated the remarkable role played by them in ensuring the Nation’s interests in the Maritime Zones.