The Island Reflector

Port Blair, Nov 10: To check the effectiveness of Coastal Security mechanism in Andaman & Nicobar Islands, exercise “Sagar Kavach” was conducted from 08th to 09th November. The exercise was conducted under the aegis of Chief Secretary of A&N Islands, who is also the Chairman of UT Coastal Security Committee. The Coast Guard, being coordinating agency for Coastal Security in Territorial Waters coordinated the exercise on behalf of A&N Administration and Andaman & Nicobar Command. Exercise Sagar Kavach is conducted twice every year with an objective to evaluate the seaward threat to A&N Islands and validate existing standard operating procedures.
A total of seventeen stake holders participated in the exercise including Indian Coast Guard, Navy, Army, Air Force, A&N Police, PMF, Forest, Fisheries, Customs, PMB, DSS and various intelligence agencies. Fishing community and coastal population were also part of exercise. During preparation phase of the exercise, various community awareness programs were conducted to sensitise the fishing / coastal community on security aspects. Special program on coastal security awareness was also relayed by All India radio on 08th November, wherein District Collector and Coast Guard DIG appealed fishermen to act as eyes and ears for security agencies.
During the exercise, real-time situations were generated for all the participants for assessing their preparedness level and preparing them for contingencies. High level of security patrols were maintained at sea by Coast Guard and Naval ships and aircraft. Heavy police bandobast was also observed at all security sensitive places across the islands. Overall, the exercise was a resounding success having perfect synergy and unprecedented co-ordination amongst all stake holders. Such initiatives in future will also help in maintaining co-operation and co-ordination among all civil and military agencies in A&N Islands.
A communique received from PRO Coast Guard. “Vyamah Rakshamah- We Protect”.