Mangaluru: The No.3 Indian Coast Guard (ICG) District, Karnataka, headquartered in Mangaluru, will celebrate the 43rd Coast Guard Raising Day on February 1, at its base inside the New Mangalore Port Trust, Mangaluru. The function will be attended by a galaxy of dignitaries from all walks of life. The programme, which will also see attendees from the local Coast Guard, will kick off at 19:00 hours (7 PM) and will include a cultural programme, a cake cutting ceremony and addresses by the COMDIS-3.
The ICG in its present shape was formally inaugurated on August 18, 1978, as an independent armed force of the Union under Entry 2 list of I under the seventh schedule of the Constitution of India, with the enactment of the Coast Guard Act 1978. The ICG is mandated to protect the maritime and other national interests in the Maritime Zones of India
The ICG Charter of Duties
Safety and Protection of Artificial Islands and Offshore Terminals
Coast Guard ships and aircraft undertake regular patrols to keep the Offshore Development Areas (ODAs), on both the Eastern and Western seaboard under surveillance.
Protection of Fishermen
Coast Guard ships and shore establishments conduct regular Community Interaction Programmes (CIPs) to apprise the fisher-folk about safety measures to be adopted at sea. Information regarding upkeep and maintenance of boats and fishing gear is also imparted. Maritime security-related aspects are also disseminated to fisherfolk.
Assistance to Fishermen in Distress at Sea
The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centers (MRCCs) co-located with RHQs, coordinate the Search and Rescue (SAR) efforts undertaken by Coast Guard units. Effective liaison is also maintained with the concerned state government departments for the expeditious launch of SAR missions and their successful culmination.
Preservation and Protection of Marine Environment
The Indian Coast Guard is engaged with environmentalists for preservation and protection of the marine environment, including flora and fauna.
Prevention and Control of Marine Pollution
The Indian Coast Guard conducts regular training for all stakeholders and oil agencies and continuously validates various contingency plans to prevent environmental damage in case of marine oil spills. It has developed the capability to be the “first-responder” for oil-spills in Indian waters.
Assisting the Customs and other authorities in anti-smuggling operations
The Indian Coast Guard, in coordination with the Customs and other enforcement agencies, undertakes operations to prevent ingress and egress of contraband, and other items on the banned list.
Enforcement of Maritime Laws in Force
Indian Coast Guard ships and aircraft undertake regular patrols to enforce maritime laws, and other regulations and international treaties to which India is a signatory.
Safety of Life and Property at Sea
Indian Coast Guard ships and aircraft operations mitigate the effect of maritime accidents and help in ensuring safety and security from natural or man-made disasters.
Collection of Scientific Data
Whilst on patrol, ICG ships collect relevant information regarding meteorological and oceanographic data for analysis and use by the scientific fraternity.
The ICG is headed at the National Level by Director General Rajendra Singh, PTM, TM Director General Rajendra Singh hails from Uttarakhand and has completed his schooling from Mussoorie prior graduating from Dehradun, while No.3 Coast Guard District, Karnataka is headed by DIG Basila
