Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth will inaugurate the 12th National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX-2026) on 7 October 2026. The exercise is being organised by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) to strengthen India’s maritime search and rescue preparedness and improve coordination with international partners.
As part of the exercise, the Minister will also witness a major search and rescue demonstration off the Paradip coast on 8 October 2026.
What is SAREX-2026?
SAREX-2026 is the 12th edition of India’s National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise. It is designed to test the ability of multiple agencies to respond quickly and effectively to large-scale emergencies at sea.
The exercise will focus on:
- Rapid mobilisation of rescue assets
- Maritime and aviation distress response
- Multi-agency coordination
- Mass rescue operations
- Technology-enabled search and rescue
- International cooperation and interoperability
Participation of 30 Countries
A major highlight of SAREX-2026 is the participation of 32 observers from 30 countries.
Their presence highlights the growing importance of international cooperation in maritime safety, common rescue protocols and coordinated responses during major emergencies at sea.
Large-Scale Participation of Ships and Aircraft
SAREX-2026 will involve a wide range of maritime and aviation assets, making it one of the largest and most complex exercises of its kind in the region.
The exercise will include:
- 15 Indian Coast Guard ships
- 2 Dornier aircraft
- 3 Advanced Light Helicopters
- 1 Chetak helicopter
- IAF C-130J aircraft
- IAF Mi-17 aircraft
- 2 Indian Navy ships
- Civil and State government assets
- Shore-based support units
The participation of assets from the Coast Guard, Indian Air Force, Indian Navy and civil agencies is intended to test joint operational readiness.
Mass Rescue Operation Scenario
The exercise will simulate a Mass Rescue Operation (MRO) involving simultaneous aeronautical and maritime emergencies.
One of the key scenarios will simulate a passenger aircraft ditching at sea with 228 persons on board. This will be followed by a simulated collision involving the container vessel MV Zumba.
The scenario will test the response of multiple agencies under complex emergency conditions and assess their ability to coordinate rescue operations at sea.
24th NMSAR Board Meeting in Bhubaneswar
Alongside SAREX-2026, the Indian Coast Guard will also convene the 24th National Maritime Search and Rescue (NMSAR) Board Meeting in Bhubaneswar.
The meeting will be chaired by Paramesh Sivamani, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard.
The board will discuss ways to further strengthen India’s maritime search and rescue framework, with focus on:
- Improving distress-alert management
- Faster mobilisation of rescue assets
- Technology integration
- Better inter-agency coordination
- Strengthening national search and rescue preparedness
Importance of SAREX-2026
SAREX-2026 is significant because India has a vast coastline and busy maritime trade routes. Strong search and rescue capability is essential to respond to accidents, disasters and distress situations involving ships, aircraft and coastal communities.
The exercise also strengthens coordination between the Indian Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, civil authorities and international partners.
Link with SAGAR and MAHASAGAR
The exercise and NMSAR Board Meeting support India’s broader maritime vision.
SAGAR stands for Security and Growth for All in the Region and reflects India’s approach towards a secure and cooperative Indian Ocean Region.
The exercise also aligns with the spirit of MAHASAGAR, aimed at promoting wider maritime cooperation and regional connectivity.
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