Engage fishing communities to enhance safety at sea: Sitharaman

Defence Minister inaugurates CG Commanders’ conference

New Delhi: Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the Coast Guard Commanders’ Conference here on Monday.  

Speaking on the occasion, she lauded the exemplary efficiency of the Coast Guard (CG) and foresightedness of its leadership for scientific and meticulously planned development of the organisation to meet the emergent challenges.  

The Indian Coast Guard’s admirable capabilities and relentless surveillance efforts in the vast and expansive maritime zones of India were unmatched in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Minister appreciated the Coast Guard’s exemplary leadership and stellar role in protecting the citizens in times of adversity, particularly post cyclone Ockhi as well as for the overwhelming response during the Kerala floods.  

Nirmala Sitharaman called upon the Coast Guard top Commanders to deliberate and discuss ways and means of engaging fishing communities so that they adopt technology- driven instruments for further enhancing safety and security at sea. 

While complimenting the Coast Guard’s consistent efforts in filling gaps in surveillance through CSN Phase-I, she assured them of MoD’s commitment to completion of Phase-II in a time- bound manner.