The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) recently attended the 19th Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM) in Istanbul. HACGAM is an annual gathering initiated by Japan to facilitate cooperation among 23 member Coast Guard agencies and two associate members, including ReCAAP and UNODC. The forum aims to ensure safe, secure, and clean seas in Asia by fostering collaboration between member states. It operates through four working groups, chaired by the Indian Coast Guard for search and rescue, and covers environmental protection, combating unlawful acts at sea, and information sharing. This meeting is a crucial platform for addressing common maritime issues.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- HACGAM: The Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting, an annual event promoting cooperation among Asian coast guards to ensure safe seas.
- ReCAAP: Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia, an associate member of HACGAM focused on maritime security.
- UNODC: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, another associate member of HACGAM, addressing maritime crime and related issues.
- MV Alondra Rainbow: A pirated vessel captured by the Indian Coast Guard in November 1999, leading to the establishment of HACGAM.
- Search and Rescue (SAR) Working Group: Chaired by the Indian Coast Guard within HACGAM, it focuses on coordinating and improving search and rescue operations at sea.
