Bhubaneswar: Indian Coast Guard Director General Paramesh Sivamani on Wednesday said advanced technology, real-time information exchange and close coordination among agencies are key to the future of maritime search and rescue operations.
He was chairing the 24th meeting of the National Maritime Search and Rescue (NMSAR) Board in Bhubaneswar. Set up in 2002, the NMSAR Board is the apex body to review preparedness for search and rescue operations across India’s 4.6 million sq km Search and Rescue Region.
Sivamani said vessel tracking must be strengthened, distress alert systems made more robust, and operational decisions should be data-driven with faster mobilisation of assets.
Lessons learnt from past missions and joint exercises should be used to improve readiness and response, he added. The Board discussed ways to strengthen national and international SAR mechanisms, noting that maritime emergencies cross borders and need coordinated action between Rescue Coordination Centres and maritime safety agencies worldwide.
The Coast Guard carries out rescue operations through three Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres and 36 Maritime Rescue Sub-Centres along the coast, Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Officials from the Indian Navy, Air Force, ISRO, INCOIS, DGCA, IMD and other agencies attended the meeting. The National Maritime Search & Rescue Awards 2026 were also presented on the occasion for acts of bravery and prompt action in saving lives at sea.
