Coastal Security Scheme – Challenges and Developments

The Coastal Security Scheme (CSS) in India aims to enhance maritime security along its extensive coastline. Recent reviews have brought into light shortcomings in the implementation of CSS phases I and II across 13 coastal states and Union Territories (UTs). Key issues include non-operational patrolling boats, inadequate funding for training, and manpower shortages. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has initiated a committee to assess these challenges and is in the process of developing CSS phase III.

Overview of the Coastal Security Scheme

The CSS was launched to strengthen coastal security post the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Phase I began in 2005-06 with an allocation of Rs 646 crore. It aimed to establish infrastructure like coastal police stations, check-posts, and interceptor boats. Phase II, approved in 2011, extended these objectives with an increased budget of Rs 1,579.91 crore, focusing on enhancing patrolling capabilities.

Infrastructure Developments

Under CSS phase I, 73 coastal police stations, 97 check-posts, and 204 interceptor boats were established. Phase II added 131 police stations and 225 boats. However, many of these assets are not operational. Reports indicate that states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have numerous non-functional boats. This hampers effective patrolling and security.

Manpower and Training Issues

A critical shortage of dedicated manpower for coastal policing has been reported. Many states rely on temporary personnel for operations. Training facilities such as the National Academy of Coastal Policing in Gujarat are underutilised due to insufficient funding. This lack of trained personnel affects the efficacy of coastal security operations.

State-Specific Challenges

Each coastal state faces unique challenges. For instance, West Bengal has operational boats but high maintenance costs. Tamil Nadu reports that only a fraction of its boats are operational. In Maharashtra, many boats are non-functional, denoting systemic issues in maintenance and funding.

Recommendations for Improvement

Nodal officers have suggested various improvements. These include providing larger and more stable boats, ensuring adequate funding for maintenance, and offering specialised training for marine police. Additionally, insurance for personnel operating at sea has been proposed to enhance safety.

Future Directions for Coastal Security

The MHA is currently formulating CSS phase III, which is expected to address the shortcomings identified in the previous phases. This phase aims to reinforce infrastructure, improve operational readiness, and enhance the overall security framework along India’s coastlines.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the significance of coastal security in India in the context of national security.
2. Critically examine the impact of inadequate infrastructure on the effectiveness of maritime policing in India.
3. Explain the role of the National Academy of Coastal Policing in enhancing coastal security.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by coastal states in implementing the Coastal Security Scheme.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the significance of coastal security in India in the context of national security.

1. India has a vast coastline of 7,516.6 km, making it vulnerable to maritime threats.
2. Coastal security is crucial for preventing illegal activities such as smuggling and human trafficking.
3. Protection of vital installations and resources along the coast is essential for national security.
4. Strengthening coastal security enhances India’s maritime domain awareness and response capabilities.
5. Effective coastal security contributes to overall national defense against external threats and terrorism.

2. Critically examine the impact of inadequate infrastructure on the effectiveness of maritime policing in India.

1. Non-operational boats hinder patrolling and surveillance activities, reducing response times to threats.
2. Insufficient coastal police stations and check-posts limit the ability to monitor coastal activities effectively.
3. Lack of jetties and operational bases affects the operational readiness of maritime forces.
4. Inadequate funding for maintenance leads to a high number of non-functional assets.
5. Overall, poor infrastructure undermines the objectives of the Coastal Security Scheme, compromising maritime safety.

3. Explain the role of the National Academy of Coastal Policing in enhancing coastal security.

1. It provides specialized training for coastal police personnel to improve operational efficiency.
2. The Academy focuses on developing skills for effective maritime law enforcement and security operations.
3. Training programs cover various aspects, including navigation, surveillance, and crisis management.
4. It aims to create a dedicated workforce equipped to handle the unique challenges of coastal security.
5. However, underutilization due to funding issues limits its impact on overall coastal security enhancement.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by coastal states in implementing the Coastal Security Scheme.

1. Andhra Pradesh reported all boats under CSS Phase I as non-operational, relying on hired fishing boats.
2. Tamil Nadu has only seven out of 24 boats operational, affecting patrolling capabilities.
3. Maharashtra faces issues with 16 out of 28 boats being non-functional, denoting maintenance problems.
4. States like West Bengal incur high maintenance costs despite having operational boats, straining budgets.
5. Manpower shortages across states lead to reliance on temporary personnel, impacting effective policing.