New Delhi, June 5, 2025 — As the global community rallies behind World Environment Day 2025 and its theme #BeatPlasticPollution, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has reaffirmed its frontline role in safeguarding the nation’s coastal and marine ecosystems.
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With India’s coastline stretching over 11,000 kilometers, the ICG’s conservation efforts are more critical than ever. From protecting biodiversity-rich coral reefs and mangroves to preserving the nesting beaches of endangered marine species, the ICG is driving a multifaceted mission to protect ocean health and coastal livelihoods.
194 Tonnes of Plastic Waste Removed in 2024
In response to the growing threat of marine pollution, the ICG has ramped up its community-driven clean-up operations. Under key national campaigns such as Swachh Sagar Surakshit Sagar, Puneet Sagar Abhiyan, and Mission LiFE, the force led over 58 major coastal clean-ups in 2024, removing an impressive 194 tonnes of plastic waste.
“These operations are not just about cleaning beaches—they’re about inspiring lasting behavioral change,” an ICG spokesperson noted, highlighting the participation of youth, fishermen, and coastal communities.
Rapid Response to Environmental Hazards
The ICG also plays a crucial role in mitigating marine environmental disasters. Specialized Pollution Control Vessels—Samudra Prahari, Samudra Paheredar, and Samudra Pavak—are equipped for rapid deployment in response to oil spills, chemical hazards, and other pollution incidents.
Through its Tier-I pollution mitigation strategies and the biannual NATPOLREX exercises, the ICG ensures seamless coordination with over 50 national agencies, preparing India for large-scale marine pollution emergencies.
Operation Olivia: Protecting Olive Ridley Turtles
Beyond pollution control, the Indian Coast Guard remains a key player in marine wildlife conservation. In 2025, Operation Olivia successfully protected more than 698,000 nesting olive ridley turtles along Odisha’s coastline. The operation helped prevent threats such as entanglement in ghost nets and illegal trawling during the sensitive nesting season.
ICG units also intensified anti-poaching efforts in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, curbing the illegal trade of marine species like sea cucumbers, corals, and giant clams—essential components of underwater biodiversity.
A Call for Citizen Action
Marking World Environment Day, the Indian Coast Guard urged all citizens to reduce single-use plastic, support ocean conservation, and become active protectors of India’s marine wealth.
“The health of our planet begins with the health of our seas,” the ICG emphasized in a statement. “Every action—no matter how small—can contribute to a cleaner, safer ocean for future generations.”
