The Indian Coast Guard and the Japan Coast Guard conducted a joint Hazardous and Noxious Substances response drill in Mumbai, strengthening maritime cooperation and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific region. The engagement included a high-level visit by Japan Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Yoshio Seguchi to the Indian Coast Guard Regional Headquarters (West), where he met Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, Commander, Coast Guard Region (West).
Joint Maritime Engagement
The visit reaffirmed the long-standing partnership between the two coast guards. Both sides brought into light the need for closer operational coordination, shared training, and faster response mechanisms for maritime emergencies. The engagement also reflected the broader strategic importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
HNS Response Drill Onboard Samudra Prahari
The main operational activity was a specialised joint training exercise onboard the Indian Coast Guard pollution response vessel ICGS Samudra Prahari. The exercise involved the ICG Pollution Response Strike Team and the Japan Coast Guard National Strike Team. The teams practised response procedures for hazardous chemical spills at sea.
Planning, Rehearsals and Classroom Training
Before the sea drill, both sides held detailed planning sessions, rehearsals, and classroom interactions in Mumbai. These sessions focused on response protocols, coordination methods, and safety measures during HNS incidents. A joint demonstration of the response procedures was later reviewed onboard the vessel by the visiting Japanese delegation and Indian Coast Guard officers.
Visit to Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders
The Japanese delegation also visited Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited to understand India’s shipbuilding capabilities. The visit added an industrial and technological dimension to the engagement and reflected growing maritime cooperation beyond operational drills.
Last Modified: April 27, 2026