Bhubaneswar: The future of maritime search and rescue (SAR) operations hinge on various aspects like advanced technological integration, real-time information sharing and seamless inter-agency synergy, Indian Coast Guard Director General Paramesh Sivamani said Wednesday.
Sivamani chaired a meeting of the National Maritime Search and Rescue (NMSAR) Board here.
Constituted in 2002, the NMSAR Board serves as the apex national committee for reviewing preparedness for maritime SAR operations across the 4.6 million sq km Indian Search & Rescue Region.
“The future of maritime SAR hinges on advanced technological integration, real-time information sharing, and seamless inter-agency synergy,” Sivamani said.
He also stressed the imperative for enhanced vessel tracking, robust distress-alert management, data-driven operational decision-making, and accelerated asset mobilisation.
Sivamani also underscored that operational lessons derived from past missions and multi-agency exercises must directly translate into heightened mission readiness and response capabilities.
At its 24th meeting, the Board also deliberated on strengthening national and international SAR frameworks, recognising that maritime emergencies transcend geographic boundaries and require synchronised coordination among global Rescue Coordination Centres and maritime safety agencies, an ICG statement said.
The ICG executes SAR operations through three Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres and 36 Maritime Rescue Sub-Centres established along the coastline and Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders from the Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, ISRO, Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), DGCA, IMD, and others.
The Board also deliberated on strengthening national and international SAR frameworks, recognising that maritime emergencies transcend geographic boundaries and necessitate synchronised coordination among global Rescue Coordination Centres and maritime safety agencies.
A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the National Maritime Search & Rescue Awards 2026, honouring exemplary bravery and swift action in saving lives at sea, the statement said.
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