In a significant initiative for national security, the Southern Naval Command is set to coordinate the Coastal Defence Exercise ‘Sea Vigil 2024’ in Kerala and Lakshadweep this week. This event marks the fourth edition of the biennial exercise, specifically designed to enhance coastal security measures across the Indian coastline.
Vice Admiral V. Srinivas, who holds the position of Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, will oversee the exercise, reinforcing the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime interests. Navy officials highlighted that a total of 16 Central and State agencies will collaborate in this exercise, including well-known organizations such as the Coast Guard, Kerala Police, and the Marine Enforcement Wing of the Fisheries Department.
For the first time, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) will be actively participating in the exercise, indicating a broader involvement of various stakeholders in strengthening coastal security. Other agencies contributing to the effort include the Department of Shipping, Ports and Waterways, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Border Security Force (BSF), the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL), Customs, the Intelligence Bureau, and local organizations.
The ‘Sea Vigil’ exercise was launched in 2009 as a direct response to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, aimed at assessing and validating the effectiveness of coastal defense mechanisms against potential threats emerging from the sea. The exercise not only emphasizes the security of coastal assets such as ports, oil rigs, and critical infrastructure but also prioritizes the safety of populations residing in coastal regions.
In this year’s exercise, five ships and aircraft from the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard, along with personnel from the participating agencies, will join forces to ensure comprehensive drills aimed at enhancing coordination and response capabilities in various scenarios. The upcoming days are expected to witness a flurry of activities designed to test and improve the resilience of India’s coastal defense posture.
