The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) hosted the 22nd National Maritime Search and Rescue (NMSAR) Board meeting on 28 November 2024 in Kochi. The event also marked the commencement of the National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise 2024 (SAREX-24), set to take place off the Kochi Coast on 29 November 2024. Rajesh Kumar Singh, IAS, Defence Secretary, inaugurated the event and interacted with foreign delegates in attendance.
The meeting was chaired by Director General S Paramesh, PTM, TM, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Chairperson of the NMSAR Board. The Indian Coast Guard serves as the coordinating and executing agency for maritime search and rescue operations within the Indian Search and Rescue Region (ISRR).
The gathering brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, ISRO, Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Airports Authority of India (AAI), Directorate General of Shipping, Customs, Coastal Police, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Fisheries Department, Maritime Boards, Port Authorities, Coastal States/Union Territories, and other associated entities.
The presentation of the National Search and Rescue (SAR) Awards for 2023-24 was a significant highlight of the meeting. These awards recognized outstanding contributions to maritime safety and search and rescue operations. The awardees were:
– Merchant Vessel Category: MV Singapore Bulker (Panama-flagged vessel)
– Fishing Boat Category: Indian Fishing Boats (IFBs) Paramita 5, Geeta, and Bahubali
– Government-Owned SAR Unit Category: ICG Air Squadron 835 Sqn (CG)
– Ashore Unit Category: Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS)
In his address, DG S Paramesh emphasized the importance of fostering synergy among all stakeholders to ensure safer seas for all seafarers. He underscored the collective commitment to safeguarding lives at sea and the pivotal role of efficient maritime search and rescue operations in strengthening India’s maritime safety framework.
Established in 2002, the NMSAR Board convenes annually to discuss policy matters, formulate guidelines and procedures, and review the National Search and Rescue Plan. This year’s meeting focused on enhancing collaboration and coordination among stakeholders to further improve maritime safety.
The event also welcomed senior dignitaries and special invitees from organizations such as the Border Security Force (BSF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Interactive sessions and presentations enriched discussions, promoting cooperation and reinforcing efforts to achieve the shared goal of maritime safety.
The 22nd NMSAR Board meeting reaffirmed the critical importance of effective maritime search and rescue operations. It highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance India’s maritime safety framework, underscoring the dedication of all participating agencies to ensuring safer and more secure maritime operations in Indian waters.
