As a mark of gratitude for the bravery, selflessness, and service of those who protect India’s maritime interests, the Indian Coast Guard Day is observed annually on February 1st.

This day is a tribute to the courage and dedication of Coast Guard members who work around the clock to keep the seas safe and respond to crises.

Nearly fifty years after it was founded, the Indian Coast Guard will celebrate its 48th Raising Day in 2024, symbolizing its dedication to protecting the country’s coastline.

Dedicated to the Watchmen of the Waters

With the 75th Republic Day festivities just around the corner on January 26, 2024, President Droupadi Murmu bestowed the esteemed President’s Tatrakshak Medal and Tatrakshak Medal upon deserving members of the Indian Coast Guard.

The Coast Guard troops of India have been honored with these honors for their courageous actions and dedicated service in safeguarding the country’s maritime borders and responding swiftly to maritime emergencies.

The Indian Coast Guard: Its Origins and Importance

The Indian Coast Guard was formed on February 1, 1977, to tackle the problem of maritime smuggling that was harming the Indian economy.

The Coast Guard’s original mandate now includes protecting India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in addition to the country’s coastlines, marines, and offshore areas.

February 1st was formally declared as Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Day after it was recognized by the Parliament on August 18, 1978.

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India has praised the Indian Coast Guard, stating that it is the fourth largest in the world.

To ensure the safety of its maritime borders, India relies on the cooperation of its coast guard, navy, customs department, and police. Among the many regions covered by the Coast Guard are the strategic Andaman and Nicobar, the East region in Chennai, the North East region in Kolkata, and the North-West region in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.