Why in news?
India marked the 49th anniversary of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on 1 February 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the service for safeguarding the country’s maritime borders and supporting the “Blue Economy.” Over its history the ICG has rescued more than 11,800 lives and seized large quantities of contraband.
Background
During the 1960s and early 1970s rampant smuggling off India’s coast highlighted the need for a dedicated maritime law‑enforcement agency distinct from the Navy. In 1970 the Nag Committee recommended the creation of a coast guard. On 1 February 1977 an interim Coast Guard was set up with vessels transferred from the Navy, and it was formally inaugurated by Prime Minister Morarji Desai on 19 August 1978. The ICG is now the world’s fourth‑largest coast guard.
Mission and motto
- Protecting ocean wealth: Guarding offshore oil rigs, gas installations, fishing grounds and mineral resources.
- Search and rescue: Assisting vessels and fishermen in distress, coordinating maritime search‑and‑rescue missions and saving lives at sea.
- Law enforcement: Preventing smuggling, illegal fishing, human trafficking and piracy in India’s waters.
- Environmental protection: Preventing marine pollution and preserving coastal ecosystems. ICG units are trained to contain oil spills and enforce pollution laws.
- Data and scientific support: Collecting oceanographic and meteorological data for national agencies.
- War‑time role: Supporting the Indian Navy in coastal defence during hostilities.
- Motto: Vayam Rakshamah (We Protect).
Achievements and significance
- Rescue operations: The ICG has saved over 11,800 lives since its inception and assisted thousands of fishermen during cyclones and storms.
- Anti‑smuggling efforts: Regular patrols and surveillance operations have intercepted narcotics, fake currency and contraband worth hundreds of crores.
- Blue Economy: By securing sea lanes and resources, the ICG supports fisheries, offshore energy and marine tourism, contributing to economic growth.
- International cooperation: The ICG participates in joint exercises and information‑sharing with neighbouring countries to ensure regional maritime security.
Source: NEWS18