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1 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu
4 min
Polity & GovernanceNEWS

Indian Coast Guard Celebrates 50th Raising Day in 2026

Indian Coast Guard celebrates its 50th Raising Day on Republic Day, 2026.

Indian Coast Guard Celebrates 50th Raising Day in 2026

Photo by Yogi Ravi Teja Yedla

The Indian Coast Guard celebrated its 50th Raising Day on Republic Day, 2026. The Coast Guard's emergency maritime search and rescue telephone number is 1554. Presidential awards for 2025-26 were announced on Republic Day.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper 3: Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism

2.

GS Paper 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

3.

Connecting the role of ICG with India's overall maritime security strategy.

Visual Insights

Indian Coast Guard: Key Statistics (2026)

Key information about the Indian Coast Guard, as it celebrates its 50th Raising Day.

Emergency Maritime Search and Rescue Number
1554

Critical for reporting maritime emergencies. Important for disaster management and coastal security.

Indian Coast Guard Raising Day
February 1st

Marks the formal establishment of the Indian Coast Guard in 1977. Important for understanding the evolution of India's maritime security apparatus.

More Information

Background

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) was formally established on 1 February 1977 by the Coast Guard Act, 1978. However, its origins can be traced back to the need for a dedicated maritime force to protect India's vast coastline and maritime interests following the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. The initial focus was on preventing smuggling and enforcing maritime laws. The establishment of the ICG was a crucial step in asserting India's maritime sovereignty and protecting its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The EEZ extends 200 nautical miles from the coast. Over the years, the ICG has evolved into a multi-mission organization, expanding its capabilities and responsibilities. Key milestones include the acquisition of advanced vessels and aircraft, the establishment of regional headquarters, and the expansion of its role in maritime search and rescue (SAR) operations. The ICG plays a vital role in enforcing the Maritime Zones of India Act, 1981, which defines India's maritime boundaries and jurisdiction. The force also collaborates with other agencies, such as the Indian Navy and state police forces, to ensure comprehensive maritime security. The legal framework governing the ICG is primarily the Coast Guard Act, 1978. This act defines the ICG's powers, functions, and responsibilities. The ICG operates under the Ministry of Defence and is headed by the Director-General. The Act empowers the ICG to enforce maritime laws, prevent smuggling, protect marine environment, and conduct search and rescue operations. The ICG also plays a crucial role in implementing international maritime conventions and protocols to which India is a signatory. The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is a key international agreement that guides the ICG's operations. Internationally, the ICG engages in cooperative activities with other coast guard agencies and maritime organizations. These collaborations include joint exercises, information sharing, and capacity building initiatives. The ICG's participation in regional forums, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), enhances maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. The ICG also works with international organizations like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to promote maritime safety and security standards.

Latest Developments

In recent years, the Indian Coast Guard has focused on enhancing its surveillance capabilities through the induction of advanced technology and platforms. This includes the acquisition of new offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), interceptor boats, and maritime surveillance aircraft. These assets enable the ICG to effectively monitor India's vast coastline and respond to maritime threats. The ICG is also strengthening its collaboration with coastal communities to enhance maritime domain awareness. This involves engaging with fishermen and local residents to gather information and promote coastal security. The ICG is actively involved in addressing emerging maritime challenges, such as piracy, maritime terrorism, and illegal fishing. It conducts regular patrols and exercises to deter these threats and protect India's maritime interests. The ICG also plays a crucial role in disaster response, providing assistance during cyclones, floods, and other natural calamities. The force has been instrumental in rescuing thousands of people from distress at sea. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) coordinates disaster response efforts at the national level. Looking ahead, the ICG is expected to further expand its capabilities and responsibilities. The government has approved plans to increase the ICG's manpower and assets. The ICG is also focusing on developing its cyber security capabilities to protect its critical infrastructure from cyber threats. The force is also exploring the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other advanced technologies to enhance its surveillance and response capabilities. The Make in India initiative is promoting indigenous production of defence equipment, including vessels and aircraft for the ICG.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the significance of the Indian Coast Guard celebrating its 50th Raising Day in 2026?

The 50th Raising Day marks a significant milestone in the Indian Coast Guard's history, highlighting its 50 years of service in protecting India's maritime interests and enforcing maritime law. This event provides an opportunity to reflect on the ICG's achievements and future goals.

2. What is the emergency maritime search and rescue telephone number for the Indian Coast Guard, and why is it important for UPSC aspirants to remember?

The emergency telephone number is 1554. Remembering this number is important as it signifies the Coast Guard's role in maritime safety and can be a factual recall question in the Prelims exam. It highlights a direct service provided to citizens.

Exam Tip

Remember 1554 for quick recall in Prelims.

3. When was the Indian Coast Guard formally established, and what historical event prompted its creation?

The Indian Coast Guard was formally established on 1 February 1977, by the Coast Guard Act, 1978. Its origins trace back to the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, which highlighted the need for a dedicated maritime force to protect India's coastline and maritime interests.

4. What are the recent developments in the Indian Coast Guard's capabilities, and how do these advancements contribute to maritime security?

Recent developments include enhancing surveillance capabilities through the induction of advanced technology and platforms, such as new offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), interceptor boats, and maritime surveillance aircraft. These advancements enable the ICG to effectively monitor India's vast coastline and respond to maritime threats, contributing to improved maritime security.

5. What are the key responsibilities of the Indian Coast Guard, and how do they contribute to national security?

The Indian Coast Guard is responsible for protecting India's maritime interests, enforcing maritime law, preventing smuggling, and conducting search and rescue operations. These activities contribute to national security by safeguarding India's coastline, resources, and maritime trade.

6. How does the celebration of the Indian Coast Guard's 50th Raising Day impact the common citizen?

The celebration highlights the Coast Guard's role in ensuring maritime safety and security, which directly impacts the safety and security of citizens who depend on maritime activities for trade, transportation, and livelihood. It also increases awareness about the ICG's services.

7. Who are some of the key personalities mentioned in the context of the Indian Coast Guard's 50th Raising Day, and what is their significance?

Key personalities mentioned are ADG Donny Michael, DIG KS Sitaram, and IG Iqbal Singh Chauhan. While the specific details of their roles aren't provided, their presence indicates leadership positions within the Indian Coast Guard.

8. What type of awards were announced on Republic Day in the context of the Indian Coast Guard?

Presidential awards for 2025-26 were announced on Republic Day. These awards recognize exceptional service and achievements within the Coast Guard.

9. Why is the Indian Coast Guard focusing on enhancing its surveillance capabilities?

Enhancing surveillance capabilities is crucial for effectively monitoring India's vast coastline, responding to maritime threats, and ensuring maritime security. This focus reflects the evolving challenges in the maritime domain.

10. What are some potential reforms that could further enhance the effectiveness of the Indian Coast Guard?

While specific reforms aren't mentioned in the provided text, potential areas for reform could include increased investment in technology, enhanced training programs, and improved coordination with other maritime agencies.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) celebrated its 50th Raising Day in 2026. Consider the following statements regarding the ICG: 1. The ICG operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs. 2. The emergency maritime search and rescue telephone number for the ICG is 1554. 3. The Coast Guard Act, which provides the legal framework for the ICG, was enacted in 1978. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is INCORRECT: The ICG operates under the Ministry of Defence, not the Ministry of Home Affairs. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The emergency maritime search and rescue telephone number for the ICG is 1554, as mentioned in the news summary. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The Coast Guard Act, which provides the legal framework for the ICG, was enacted in 1978.

2. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the role of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG)?

  • A.Primarily responsible for maintaining law and order within India's internal waterways.
  • B.Solely responsible for conducting naval warfare operations.
  • C.Responsible for maritime search and rescue, prevention of smuggling, and protection of marine environment.
  • D.Primarily focused on border security along India's land borders.
Show Answer

Answer: C

Option C is correct because the Indian Coast Guard is responsible for maritime search and rescue, prevention of smuggling, and protection of the marine environment. These are key functions outlined in the Coast Guard Act, 1978. The other options are incorrect as they describe roles that are not primarily the responsibility of the ICG.

3. Consider the following statements regarding the Maritime Zones of India Act, 1981: 1. It defines India's maritime boundaries and jurisdiction. 2. It provides the legal framework for the Indian Coast Guard's operations. 3. It establishes the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extending 12 nautical miles from the coast. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 only
  • B.1 and 2 only
  • C.2 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Maritime Zones of India Act, 1981 defines India's maritime boundaries and jurisdiction. Statement 2 is CORRECT: It provides the legal framework for the Indian Coast Guard's operations. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extends 200 nautical miles from the coast, not 12 nautical miles.

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