The Indian Coast Guard is set to conduct the National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercises and Workshop (SAREX-24) in Kochi from November 27 to 30, 2024. This initiative is part of the National Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR) construct. It aims to enhance collaboration among various agencies and foreign nations in managing search and rescue operations across India’s vast maritime territory.
Context of SAREX-24
SAREX-24 is the eleventh edition of this exercise. It focuses on improving search and rescue capabilities through regional collaboration. The Indian Search and Rescue Region (ISRR) covers an area of 4.6 million square kilometres. This vast expanse necessitates effective coordination among multiple stakeholders in emergency situations at sea.
Objectives of the Workshop
The workshop aims to validate the M-SAR framework. It encourages an all-inclusive approach to maritime rescue operations. The emphasis is on cooperative engagements with resource agencies and neighbouring countries. This collaboration is crucial for efficient response operations during large-scale maritime emergencies.
Event Structure
The event will begin with an inauguration by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. Following this, various programmes will take place on November 28. These include table-top exercises, workshops, and seminars. Senior officials from government agencies, armed forces, and foreign delegates will participate.
Sea Exercise Scenarios
The second day will feature sea exercise. Two large-scale contingencies will be simulated off the Kochi coast. The first scenario involves a passenger vessel in distress with 500 passengers on board. The second scenario depicts a civil aircraft ditching with 200 passengers.
Use of Technology
Modern technology will play a vital role in the exercise. Innovations such as satellite-aided distress beacons and drones for deploying life buoys will be demonstrated. These advancements aim to improve the efficiency of rescue operations and ensure timely assistance to distressed passengers.
Collaboration and Coordination
SAREX-24 marks the importance of collaboration. It not only evaluates operational efficiency but also focuses on coordination with national and international stakeholders. This cooperative approach is essential for effective maritime safety and rescue operations.
Significance of SAREX-24
The exercise puts stress on India’s commitment to maritime safety. It aims to enhance the country’s capabilities in responding to emergencies at sea. By encouraging regional collaboration, India seeks to provide assistance irrespective of nationality or circumstance.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of the Indian Coast Guard in maritime safety and security in the Indian Ocean Region.
- What is the significance of regional collaboration in maritime search and rescue operations? Provide suitable examples.
- Estimate the impact of technological advancements on the efficiency of search and rescue operations at sea.
- Point out the challenges faced by India in managing large-scale maritime emergencies in the Indian Search and Rescue Region.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the role of the Indian Coast Guard in maritime safety and security in the Indian Ocean Region.
- The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is responsible for safeguarding India’s maritime interests and ensuring the safety of life at sea.
- ICG conducts regular patrols and surveillance to monitor illegal activities, such as smuggling and piracy in the Indian Ocean Region.
- It plays important role in disaster response and humanitarian assistance during maritime emergencies.
- ICG collaborates with other nations through joint exercises and information sharing for enhanced maritime security.
- Its role extends to environmental protection, including oil spill response and marine pollution control.
2. What is the significance of regional collaboration in maritime search and rescue operations? Provide suitable examples.
- Regional collaboration enhances resource sharing and coordination during emergencies, leading to quicker response times.
- Joint exercises, like SAREX-24, improve interoperability among nations’ maritime agencies, ensuring effective operations.
- Examples include the Indian Coast Guard’s partnerships with neighboring countries for joint search and rescue missions.
- Collaborative frameworks facilitate training and knowledge exchange, improving overall regional capabilities.
- Such cooperation helps in addressing transnational maritime threats, such as piracy and illegal fishing.
3. Estimate the impact of technological advancements on the efficiency of search and rescue operations at sea.
- Technological advancements, such as satellite-aided distress beacons, enhance the speed and accuracy of locating distressed vessels.
- Drones can be deployed for rapid assessment and delivery of life-saving equipment to victims at sea.
- Real-time data sharing through advanced communication systems improves coordination among rescue teams.
- Innovations like remote-controlled life buoys increase the chances of survival for passengers in distress.
- Overall, technology reduces response times and enhances the effectiveness of rescue operations.
4. Point out the challenges faced by India in managing large-scale maritime emergencies in the Indian Search and Rescue Region.
- The vastness of the Indian Search and Rescue Region (ISRR) complicates timely response due to distance and resource allocation.
- Coordination among multiple agencies can be challenging, leading to potential delays in response efforts.
- Limited infrastructure and resources in remote areas hinder effective search and rescue operations.
- Environmental factors, such as rough seas and weather conditions, can impede rescue efforts.
- Legal and jurisdictional issues may arise when dealing with foreign vessels and international waters.
