A two-day coastal security exercise called Sagar Kavach 01/24 was conducted off the Lakshadweep Islands from April 1-2, 2024. The exercise involved the participation of all maritime security agencies, including the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, Fisheries, Customs, and other security agencies.
Objectives and Outcomes
The primary objective of the exercise was to validate the effectiveness of the coastal security mechanism in dealing with asymmetric threats emanating from the sea. The exercise witnessed enhanced preparedness, response mechanisms, surveillance capabilities, and coordination among the various coastal security stakeholders.
Participation and Assets Engaged
During the exercise, a wide range of assets from the participating agencies were engaged. This included assets from the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, Fisheries, Customs, and other security agencies. The exercise provided an opportunity to test and validate the effectiveness of the coastal security framework in the Lakshadweep region.
Significance of the Exercise
The Sagar Kavach 01/24 exercise is crucial for strengthening the country’s coastal security. It helps to identify any gaps or areas for improvement in the existing mechanisms and ensures that the maritime security agencies are well-prepared to address any potential threats. The enhanced coordination and cooperation among the stakeholders during the exercise also contribute to the overall effectiveness of the coastal security framework.
The successful conduct of the Sagar Kavach 2024 exercise in the Lakshadweep Islands is a testament to the Indian government’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests and ensuring the security of its coastal regions.