New Delhi, Sept 24 : Union Defence Minister A. K. Antony on Wednesday said that the Indian Coast Guard has evolved into an effective, efficient and dependable maritime force of our nation.

He was speaking at the inauguration of 27th Commanders'' Conference of the Indian Coast Guard in New Delhi today.

“The Indian Coast Guard over the years has accumulated a wealth of experience whilst undertaking various operational tasks and has evolved into an effective, efficient and dependable maritime force of our nation. During my last 23 months in office, I have seen the Coast Guard grow in strength, enhanced visibility and fulfill all its mandated roles enshrined in its charter as well as the additional responsibilities that have been given to it from time to time,” said Antony.

He added that “The achievements of the past one year are a testimony of the commitment of the Indian Coast Guard personnel.”

The Minister said that the threat of terrorism is omnipresent and its tentacles have spread far and wide across the globe, embracing many regions, parts of our country too. Vast expanse of oceans can easily be exploited by the perpetrators of violence and crime. Growing threat from the sea calls for a need to strengthen our coastal security mechanism. Towards this, Indian Coast Guard needs to ensure that its fleet of ships and aircraft are always mission ready.

He also asked the Coast Guard that there is a need to embrace contemporary technologies to meet not only the present threats, but also prepare yourself for the emerging requirements of the future.

Antony gave assurance that the Ministry is committed to supporting the Indian Coast Guard in its endeavour to modernise its existing fleet with new sensors and equipment, as also its new acquisition plans for expansion of the Coast Guard fleet from the national security perspective.

He said the Anti poaching operations launched by the Indian Coast Guard in our Exclusive Economic Zones have significantly contributed in deterring unscrupulous elements from venturing into our waters and exploiting our precious marine wealth.

Antony said he is also pleased to note that the Indian Coast Guard has undertaken numerous search and rescue missions and saved 284 lives at sea during the year gone by.

The successful participation of Indian Coast Guard ships and aircraft in joint exercises with Japan, Republic of Korea, Maldives and Royal Oman Police Coast Guard during the year gone by has resulted in achieving synergy in our operations, greater interoperability, besides mutually benefitting from each other''s experience and sharing of best practices. (ANI)