S. Paramesh: New Director General of Indian Coast Guard

Appointment and Background of S. Paramesh

• Appointed as the 26th Director General of the Indian Coast Guard
• Took charge at Coast Guard headquarters in New Delhi
• Succeeds late Rakesh Pal, who passed away in August 2024
• Over 30 years of experience in the Indian Coast Guard
• Alumnus of National Defence College, New Delhi and Defence Services Staff College, Wellington
• Specialist in Navigation & Direction
• Commanded major vessels including Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel Samar and Offshore Patrol Vessel Vishwast
• Held key positions such as Deputy Director General for Operations and Coastal Security
• Served as Coast Guard Commander for Eastern and Western seaboards
• Promoted to Additional Director General in September 2022

Achievements and Recognitions

• Awarded the President's Tatrakshak Medal for Distinguished Service
• Received the Tatrakshak Medal in 2014
• Honored with Director General Coast Guard Commendation in 2012
• Received Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (East) Commendation in 2009
• Extensive experience in both maritime and terrestrial operations
• Played pivotal roles in managing operations across eastern and western seaboards
• Recognized for leadership skills and operational proficiency

Vision and Significance of the Appointment

• Expected to enhance operational effectiveness of the Indian Coast Guard
• Focus on modernizing the Coast Guard and improving maritime surveillance capabilities
• Aims to strengthen coastal security to address emerging challenges
• Emphasis on safeguarding India's extensive maritime boundaries and Exclusive Economic Zone
• Plans to enhance search and rescue capabilities
• Will further the Coast Guard's role in environmental protection at sea
• Appointment ensures continuity in leadership for maritime security

About the Indian Coast Guard

• Established on February 1, 1977, based on K.F. Rustamji committee recommendation
• Operates under the Ministry of Defence
• Responsible for preventing smuggling on high seas, controlling marine pollution, and enforcing maritime laws
• Celebrates Coast Guard Day on February 1 each year
• Has five operational regions: Northwest, Western, Eastern, Southwest, and Andaman & Nicobar
• Operates over 150 ships and 62 aircraft
• Collaborates with other countries to improve coastal security
• Plays crucial role in emergency response and rescue operations