CHENNAI, Feb 1: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on Wednesday completed 46 years of committed glorious service to the nation.
Marking its 46th anniversary, the Coast Guard Raising Day ceremony was held at Headquarters, Coast Guard Region (East) here.
The interim Coast Guard came into existence on Feb 1, 1977, with a fleet strength of seven ships, for Surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of India.
Today, the ICG fleet has grown into a formidable force with 78 aircraft and 158 surface units.
The entire Coastline of India and National Maritime Zones have been divided into five Coast Guard Regions, so that the Indian Coast Guard effectively discharges its mandated roles at various locations through Coast Guard District Headquarters, Stations and Coast Guard Air Stations.
As the fourth largest Coast Guard in the world, the ICG through its tireless pursuit for excellence has established itself as a reliable force that responds with alacrity to situations impinging on the Security of our Coastline, Safety of the Seafaring Community and Coastal Populace, Legitimate Economic Activities in the EEZ and the Protection of Maritime Environment.
To commemorate, the ICG’s 46 years of yeoman service to the Nation, the Headquarters Coast Guard Region (East) has been conducting a series of events.
On January 4, 2023, a ‘Special Community Interaction Programme-cum-Special Coastal Cleanup’ was conducted at various fishing villages to create awareness amongst fishermen. Besides inter-school painting and quiz competitions for school students were organised and 40 students from various schools were taken onboard ICG Ship Sujay.
Further, as an act of developing camaraderie with fishing community, a friendly volleyball match was conducted on January14 wherein 10 teams of fishermen participate with full josh. Special Swachta Abhiyaan was also organized from January 16 to 25 with emphasis on cleaner environment, during which lectures were delivered so as to create awareness about the importance of cleaner environment.
Apart from these events, a bicycle rally was also conducted on January 29 as part of CG Week celebrations during placards depicting India’s G20 Presidency, International Year of Millet and importance of Cleanliness were carried by the participants to create awareness among the people.
Further to conserve the environment and ensure greener environment to future generation, tree plantation drive was conducted at Office/residential premises of Coast Guard. (UNI)
