Indian Coast Guard celebrates 50th Raising Day on Feb 1, honouring five decades of maritime service

New Delhi: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is observing its 50th Raising Day today, marking five decades of dedicated service to the nation. Established on February 1, 1977 with just seven surface platforms, the ICG has grown into a “formidable maritime force” now equipped with 155 ships and 80 aircraft, officials said.

The force, headquartered in Delhi, monitors India’s 11,098 km coastline and oversees a 20.1 lakh sq km Exclusive Economic Zone, safeguarding maritime interests, enforcing law at sea, conducting search and rescue operations, protecting the marine environment and providing humanitarian assistance.

“From its humble beginnings in 1977 with just seven surface platforms, the ICG has evolved into a formidable maritime force comprising 155 ships and 80 aircraft today,” the ICG said. By 2030, the organisation aims to achieve 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft, positioning itself among the world’s premier coast guard services.

Since its inception, the Indian Coast Guard has rescued over 11,800 lives, earning the reputation of ‘Saviours at Sea’, officials added. The force has been at the forefront of maritime operations, from close coordination with the Indian Navy during Operation Sindoor to rescue operations in Lakshadweep and handling major incidents off the Kerala coast.

Ahead of the celebrations, the President of India, the Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Defence Minister have extended their greetings to all ranks, acknowledging the ICG’s crucial role in safeguarding India’s maritime frontiers.
 

Aligned with the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’, the ICG is steadily moving towards self-reliance through indigenously-built ships, aircraft, helicopters, and advanced surveillance systems, while prioritising infrastructure development and personnel welfare.
 

The force also promotes gender equality and inclusivity, providing equal opportunities for women across sea-going, aviation, and shore-based roles, fostering a professional environment based on merit, respect, and trust.

Guided by the doctrines of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), the ICG contributes to India’s maritime resurgence, strengthening security, trade, and regional cooperation.

On the global stage, the ICG enhances partnerships through humanitarian aid, disaster relief missions, and capacity-building initiatives, and will host the 50th Coast Guard Global Summit in 2025, reflecting India’s growing maritime leadership.

As part of the 50th Raising Day celebrations, ICG district headquarters in Lakshadweep organised a series of community engagement activities in Kavaratti, Androth, and Minicoy, including painting contests, quizzes, walkathons, coastal clean-ups, school visits to ICG ships, cycle rallies, and tree plantations.

“The initiatives witnessed enthusiastic participation from the Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, CRPF, IRBN, civilian organisations, schools, fishermen communities, and local administration, reinforcing collective commitment towards maritime safety, environmental protection, and community engagement,” the ICG said.

PTI