Context:
The coastal security exercise ‘Sagar Kavach’ is set to unfold its strategic manoeuvres along the Kerala and Mahe coasts.
Relevance:
GS III: Security Challenges
Dimensions of the Article:
- Sagar Kavach: Strengthening Coastal Defenses through Unified Exercises
Sagar Kavach: Strengthening Coastal Defenses through Unified Exercises
- Frequency: Conducted semi-annually
- Coordination: Led by the Indian Coast Guard, involves collaboration with central and state agencies
- Objective: Showcase a unified approach to fortifying India’s coastal defenses
Participating Agencies:
- Forces Involved: Indian Navy, Coastal Police/State Police, Intelligence Bureau, Customs, CISF, Department of Port, Department of Fisheries, Directorate General of Lighthouse and Lightships (DGLL), Kadalora Jagiratha Samithi
- Collaborative Effort: Active involvement from various agencies ensures a comprehensive approach
Exercise Dynamics:
- Adaptability: Designed to address unique complexities of coastal terrain
- Scenario Variation: Ensures security mechanisms are robust and adaptive to various threats
Strategic Division: Attack vs. Defence Forces:
- Teams: Participating units divided into Red (Attack) and Blue (Defence) Forces
- Red Forces: Simulate infiltration attempts into coastal areas challenging defenses
- Blue Forces: Counteract simulated threats by establishing Coastal Security Surveillance to intercept and neutralize infiltration attempts
Role of Fishermen:
- Recognition: Acknowledges the pivotal role of fishermen in coastal security
- Community Involvement: Urges fishermen to report any unknown vessels near the coast promptly
- Enhancing Security: Aims to turn the local fishing community into a valuable asset for coastal security
Outcome:
- Collaborative Approach: Enhances awareness and responsiveness in the coastal region
- Security Enhancement: Strengthens coastal defenses through a unified and proactive strategy.
-Source: The Hindu
