The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) recently organized the 9th National Level Pollution Response Exercise (NATPOLREX-IX) off Vadinar, in the state of Gujarat. This exercise was primarily designed to evaluate and enhance the readiness and coordination among different resource agencies in their response to a marine oil spill as outlined in the National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOSDCP). The event also highlighted India’s industrial strength and reiterated the country’s commitment to the ‘Make in India’ initiative and vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.
NATPOLREX-IX: An Overview
The NATPOLREX-IX is a regular exercise conducted by the Indian Coast Guard to assess the level of preparedness in handling marine oil spill disasters. This exercise is not just about preparing for potential disasters but also for coordinating necessary actions among the different agencies involved. This year’s exercise involved the deployment of both surface and air platforms.
The Significance of Surface and Air Platforms
In handling marine oil spills, the ICG understands the importance of both surface and air platforms. During the NATPOLREX-IX, various instruments including Pollution Response Vessels (PRVs), Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), indigenous Advanced Light Helicopter Mk-III, and Dornier Aircraft were deployed. These equipment are specifically designed for marine pollution response and their proper use is crucial in effectively managing maritime mishaps.
India’s Industrial Prowess
India’s industrial might was also showcased during the NATPOLREX-IX. The event highlighted the country’s ability to produce world-class machinery for disaster response under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. It also underscored the vision of an ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, a self-reliant India that is equipped to handle its own challenges.
The Role of the Indian Coast Guard
Apart from conducting such highly specialized exercises like NATPOLREX-IX, the ICG also plays a pivotal role in drafting the National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOSDCP). They are the primary organization tasked with establishing and maintaining pollution response centers across India. Currently, there are four such centers located in Mumbai, Chennai, Port Blair, and Vadinar.
SAGAR: Security and Growth for all in the Region
SAGAR is an initiative by the Indian government aimed at ensuring the security and growth of all countries in the Indian Ocean region. The successful execution of the NATPOLREX-IX underlines India’s commitment to SAGAR, proving the nation’s capability in ensuring safety and promoting growth within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The NATPOLREX-IX was undoubtedly a well-executed exercise that demonstrated India’s ability to respond effectively to maritime disasters. It was also a testament to the country’s industrial capabilities and its vision of becoming self-reliant, opening up new opportunities for collaborations and partnerships while ensuring safety and growth in the region.
