Indian Coast Guard Participates in 20th HACGAM

In a significant move towards enhancing maritime security and cooperation in Asia, the Indian Coast Guard participated in the 20th Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM) held in Incheon, South Korea. This important gathering, which took place from September 2-6, 2024, brought together coast guard agencies from across Asia to discuss crucial maritime issues and strengthen collaborative efforts.

The 20th HACGAM: A Platform for Maritime Dialogue

Venue and Date

The 20th HACGAM was hosted by the South Korean Coast Guard in Incheon, South Korea, spanning five days from September 2 to 6, 2024.

Key Discussions

During the Incheon meeting, member nations’ coast guards engaged in comprehensive discussions on various critical maritime issues:

1. Maritime Law Enforcement: Strategies to ensure compliance with international maritime laws and regulations.
2. Safety and Security at Sea: Measures to protect lives and vessels in international waters.
3. Marine Environment Protection: Initiatives to safeguard the ocean ecosystem from pollution and degradation.
4. Illicit Trafficking: Combating the illegal transportation of humans, drugs, weapons, and other contraband via sea routes.

Bilateral Meeting

On the sidelines of HACGAM, the Indian Coast Guard held its 12th annual bilateral meeting with the South Korean Coast Guard on September 4, 2024. This meeting underscored the growing cooperation between the two nations in maritime affairs.

Understanding HACGAM

Origins and Purpose

The Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM) is an initiative that originated in Japan. The first HACGAM was organized in 2004 in Japan, primarily in response to the rising incidents of piracy in Southeast Asian waters, particularly in the Straits of Malacca.

Membership

HACGAM boasts a diverse membership of twenty-three countries, including: Australia, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Pakistan, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, and Vietnam.

Headquarters

The headquarters of HACGAM is located in Japan, reflecting the country’s instrumental role in establishing this crucial maritime forum.

The Indian Coast Guard: Guardians of India’s Maritime Frontiers

Establishment

The Indian Coast Guard was founded on February 1, 1977, following the recommendations of the K.F. Rustamji Committee. This date is now celebrated annually as the Indian Coast Guard Foundation Day.

Administrative Control

The Indian Coast Guard operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.

Primary Responsibilities

The coast guard’s main duties include:

• Patrolling India’s high seas to prevent smuggling, piracy, and other illegal activities
• Ensuring maritime safety and security
• Protecting India’s maritime interests and enforcing maritime law

Headquarters and Motto

The headquarters of the Indian Coast Guard is situated in New Delhi. The organization operates under the inspiring motto “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), embodying its commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime domains.

Significance of HACGAM Participation

The Indian Coast Guard’s participation in the 20th HACGAM is of paramount importance for several reasons:

1. Regional Cooperation: It provides a platform for India to engage with other Asian nations on critical maritime issues, fostering regional cooperation.
2. Knowledge Exchange: The meeting allows for the sharing of best practices and experiences in tackling common maritime challenges.
3. Strategic Partnerships: It offers opportunities to strengthen bilateral relationships, as evidenced by the meeting with the South Korean Coast Guard.
4. Global Maritime Security: By contributing to discussions on issues like illicit trafficking and marine environment protection, India plays a crucial role in enhancing global maritime security.
5. Technological Advancements: The forum enables coast guards to stay updated on the latest technological advancements in maritime surveillance and security.