Indian Coast Guard Day: History, Theme, and Significance
1 February is Observed as Indian Coast Guard Day. The Indian Coast Guard celebrates its foundation day on 1 February. ICG Day is observed to honor and pay tribute to the Indian Coast Guard Force, who protect Indian coasts and enforce maritime regulations in India’s maritime zones.
The day was founded on 1 February 1977. This year Indian Coast Guard celebrated its 47th Raising Day. With approximately 158 ships and 70 aircraft, the Indian Coast Guard is the 4th largest Coast Guard in the world.
Indian Coast Guard Day: History
India’s interim Coast Guard was originally established on February 1, 1977, to prevent seaborne smuggling of goods. In 1978, a few months after the Indian Coast Guard was founded, the Indian Parliament created the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Day. A large number of lives have been saved and miscreants have been apprehended by the Indian Coast Guard since its formation. A huge amount of drugs, contraband, and illicit goods have also been confiscated by the ICG since its establishment.
Indian Coast Guard Day: Facts
- The 7516.60-kilometer coastline of India includes various states and some of the busiest trade routes in the world.
- The Indian Coast Guard is responsible for ensuring the safety of ships and boats, safeguarding the marine environment, and preventing illegal activities such as smuggling and human trafficking.
- ICG works in close collaboration with other government agencies such as the Indian Navy, the Indian Customs, and the Central Intelligence Agency to secure India’s maritime zones.
- Indian Coast Guard’s mission also includes providing assistance to ships in distress, carrying out search and rescue operations, and providing medical assistance to people in need.
- ICG also plays a crucial role in disaster management, including relief and evacuation operations during natural calamities like hurricanes, tsunamis and oil spills
- The Indian Coast Guard operates from various regional headquarters located along the Indian coast, including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Noida.
- ICG has a strength of over 11,000 personnel, including officers and enlisted personnel. It is the 5th largest coast guard in the world.
FAQs:
- When is Indian Coast Guard Day observed?
Indian Coast Guard Day is observed on February 1st every year.
- What is the purpose of the Indian Coast Guard?
The purpose of the Indian Coast Guard is to protect India’s maritime interests and enforce maritime laws. It is responsible for ensuring the safety of ships and boats, safeguarding the marine environment, and preventing illegal activities such as smuggling and human trafficking.
- Who was the first Director General of the Indian Coast Guard?
DG ICG was Vice Admiral V. A. Kamath
Read More: 1 February in Indian and World History
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