Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane inaugurated the Hovercraft Maintenance Unit of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) in Okha, Gujarat, marking a significant step in enhancing the country's maritime security capabilities.
The inauguration ceremony, attended by senior officials including Director General Rakesh Pal, emphasised the importance of this infrastructure in bolstering the ICG's operational readiness, particularly in coastal and amphibious operations.
The Hovercraft Maintenance Infrastructure is poised to play a crucial role in facilitating swift maintenance and upkeep of hovercraft, vital assets used in amphibious operations.
This development underscores the government's commitment to equipping the ICG with state-of-the-art facilities to effectively safeguard India's coastline against external threats.
Addressing the media, Defence Secretary Aramane reiterated the government's dedication to strengthening the ICG's capabilities and ensuring robust coastal security measures.
He emphasised the significance of the ICG's role in protecting the nation's maritime interests and highlighted ongoing efforts to provide the necessary resources and equipment to the maritime security force.
Aramane underscored the versatility of hovercraft in navigating challenging terrains, such as marshy islands near the coast, enabling swift response and intervention in critical situations.
Additionally, he lauded the collaborative efforts of various security agencies, including the ICG, Indian Navy, Border Security Force, Narcotics Control Bureau, and Gujarat police, in combating drug trafficking through maritime routes.
Furthermore, Aramane emphasised the ICG's evolving role in enhancing surveillance capabilities in distant maritime regions, including along the Pakistan coast.
This strategic focus on bolstering maritime surveillance aligns with broader efforts to strengthen India's maritime security architecture and protect vital maritime assets.
Overall, the inauguration of the Hovercraft Maintenance Unit signifies a significant milestone in India's maritime security landscape, reflecting the government's proactive approach in equipping the ICG to address emerging security challenges effectively.