The Sea Vigil 2021 exercise marks a significant event in India’s defense calendar, showcasing the country’s preparedness to protect its vast coastline and maritime interests. As a biennial event, it represents the collective effort of various agencies and communities working together to ensure the safety and security of India’s maritime domain.
Background of Sea Vigil Exercise
Initiated in 2019, the Sea Vigil exercise is a relatively new addition to India’s strategic defense initiatives. The exercise is designed to evaluate the nation’s capabilities in coastal defense and maritime security across its extensive shoreline and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This large-scale endeavor involves a multitude of participants and covers a vast area, reflecting the complexity and importance of maritime security in the current global scenario.
Scope and Area of Operation
The Sea Vigil 2021 exercise is set to cover the entire Indian coastline, which spans approximately 7,516 kilometers. Additionally, the operations extend into India’s EEZ, an area where the country has special rights regarding the exploration and use of marine resources. The EEZ stretches up to 200 nautical miles from the baseline, significantly increasing the area that the exercise encompasses. This expansive coverage ensures a comprehensive assessment of India’s maritime security measures.
Participants in Sea Vigil 2021
A wide array of stakeholders are involved in the Sea Vigil 2021 exercise, highlighting the collaborative nature of maritime security efforts. All coastal states and Union Territories (UTs)—13 in total—are active participants. These regional governments work alongside national agencies such as the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard, which play pivotal roles in the execution of the exercise. Furthermore, the Customs department and the local fishing community are also integral to the operation, providing unique insights and support to the security measures being tested and evaluated.
Role of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard
The Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard are at the forefront of the Sea Vigil 2021 exercise, bringing their expertise and resources to bear on this critical operation. The Navy deploys its fleet, including ships, submarines, and aircraft, to simulate and counter various maritime threats. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard utilizes its patrol vessels and interceptor boats to ensure law enforcement and environmental protection within the EEZ. Their combined efforts are essential for a successful execution of the exercise.
Involvement of Customs and Fishing Community
Customs officials have a vested interest in Sea Vigil 2021, as they are responsible for regulating and monitoring trade and the movement of goods through maritime routes. Their participation ensures that any potential security breaches related to smuggling or illegal trafficking are addressed during the exercise. The fishing community, with its extensive knowledge of local waters and maritime practices, provides valuable assistance. Fishermen are often the eyes and ears of the coast, and their involvement enhances the surveillance and reporting mechanisms critical to coastal security.
Objectives of the Exercise
The primary objective of Sea Vigil 2021 is to assess the preparedness of India’s maritime security apparatus. The exercise aims to identify strengths and weaknesses in the current system, allowing for improvements and the development of new strategies to combat potential threats. It also serves to enhance inter-agency coordination and cooperation, ensuring a unified response to any maritime challenge. Moreover, the exercise fosters a sense of vigilance among the coastal population, making them an active part of the nation’s defense mechanism.
Sea Vigil 2021 is a testament to India’s commitment to maintaining a robust and responsive maritime security framework. Through meticulous planning and the collective efforts of various stakeholders, the exercise endeavors to fortify the country’s defenses against any maritime threat, thus safeguarding its territorial integrity and economic interests.
