‘Sagar Kavach’ : The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully conducted a two-day coastal security exercise, ‘Sagar Kavach (WB)- 01/25’, testing and validating the security protocols along West Bengal’s coastline. Held on February 21-22, the exercise aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the state’s Coastal Security Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across its 158 km-long coastline.
The exercise, coordinated by the Commander Coast Guard (NE), was centrally managed from the State Coastal Security Operation Centre (SCSOC) at Coast Guard District Headquarters No. 8 in Haldia. It simulated a range of high-risk security scenarios, including terrorist landings, smuggling, and attacks on coastal infrastructure, focusing on improving responses to potential maritime threats.
The exercise brought together multiple security agencies to reinforce West Bengal’s coastal defense mechanisms. It saw active participation from the Indian Coast Guard, Navy, Police, CISF, BSF, Customs, and district police forces, all of whom carried out sea, river, and coastal patrols. Local fishermen were also enlisted as “Eyes and Ears,” providing intelligence support.
Special operations during the exercise included coordinated missions by the CISF, Quick Response Teams (QRTs) from the ICG and police, as well as sea and air surveillance conducted by the ICG.
West Bengal’s coastline is of particular strategic importance due to its vast maritime assets. With over 3.3 lakh fishermen operating more than 16,000 fishing boats, the state is home to two major ports and various river ports and jetties. Additionally, its unique riverine geography presents significant challenges to coastal security.
The success of the exercise highlights the importance of inter-agency collaboration between central and state security forces, ensuring that West Bengal’s maritime boundaries are well-protected. Lessons learned from ‘Sagar Kavach (WB)- 01/25’ will now be reviewed to refine the state’s Coastal Security SOPs and enhance coordination for future operations.
This initiative, supported by both the Central and State governments, marks a significant step in strengthening West Bengal’s coastal security preparedness.
