ICG Personnel: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh awarded special medals to the brave members of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) during the 18th ICG Investiture Ceremony. The event took place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. A total of 32 medals were given for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024. These medals recognized the courage, hard work, and dedication of the ICG personnel who often work in tough and dangerous conditions.
The awards included six President’s Tatrakshak Medals (Distinguished Service), 11 Tatrakshak Medals (Gallantry), and 15 Tatrakshak Medals (Meritorious Service). During the ceremony, Rajnath Singh praised the ICG for their bravery and selfless service. According to The Statesman, he said, “Today’s medals are not mere mementos but symbols of courage, perseverance, and the dedication to uphold the honour of our tricolour.”
Singh highlighted the important role of the ICG in keeping India’s seas safe. He said they protect the coastline from both traditional threats like wars and newer challenges like piracy, terrorism, and illegal activities. “The ICG ensures the safety of India’s vast coastline, facing both conventional and non-traditional threats,” he added.
The Defence Minister also shared some of the ICG’s big achievements from the past year. He said, “The ICG apprehended 14 boats and 115 pirates, seized drugs worth Rs 37,000 crore, saved 169 lives during rescue operations, and provided medical assistance to 29 seriously injured individuals.” He added, “These statistics are not just numbers, but stories of ICG’s courage and its commitment to national security.”
Singh also talked about the need to tackle new kinds of threats like cyber-attacks, data breaches, and GPS spoofing, along with the usual challenges of maritime security. To help the ICG become even stronger, the government has increased its budget. For the financial year 2025-26, the ICG will get Rs 9,676.70 crore, which is 26.5% more than last year. This money will be used to buy new equipment, including 14 Fast Patrol Vessels, six Air Cushion Vehicles, 22 Interceptor Boats, and 18 Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels.
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Singh also praised the ICG’s efforts to use new technology, like the Digital Coast Guard project. He said, “These efforts will continue to strengthen the ICG and ensure that it remains prepared to face both conventional and unconventional threats.”
Before the ceremony, Rajnath Singh inspected a special guard of honour. The award winners and their families also got a chance to meet the Defence Minister, making the event even more special.
