Indian Coast Guard's Role at 19th HACGAM Meeting

19th HACGAM Meeting

The 19th Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM), held in Istanbul, Türkiye, from September 5th to 8th, 2023, witnessed the active participation of the Indian Coast Guard, led by DG Rakesh Pal, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard. This annual event convened representatives from 23 member Coast Guard Agencies and two associate members, ReCAAP and UNODC, to deliberate on pressing maritime issues and seek avenues for deeper collaboration.

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Addressing Maritime Challenges

Over the course of three days, the heads of Coast Guards from diverse member nations engaged in substantive discussions encompassing a spectrum of crucial maritime topics. These discussions revolved around subjects such as the enforcement of maritime laws, the assurance of safety and security at sea, the preservation of marine environments, and the combatting of unlawful activities like drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and human trafficking at sea. The primary objective was to formulate strategies that encourage cooperation and collective action in tackling these challenges.

Strengthening Maritime Cooperation

The foremost objective of the HACGAM forum is to bolster cooperation among Asian states’ Coast Guards, with an overarching goal of ensuring the safety, security, and cleanliness of the seas in the region. This initiative traces its roots back to a Japanese proposal, inspired by the Indian Coast Guard’s successful capture of the pirated vessel MV Alondra Rainbow in November 1999.

Working Towards Common Objectives

HACGAM operates through four specialized Working Groups, each committed to a focused and goal-oriented approach in addressing common maritime challenges:

Search and Rescue (SAR) Working Group: Led by the Indian Coast Guard, this group emphasizes the rapid and effective response to search and rescue operations in the region.
Environmental Protection Working Group: This group concentrates on issues related to safeguarding marine ecosystems and environmental conservation in Asian waters.
Controlling Unlawful Acts at Sea Working Group: Focusing on combating unlawful activities at sea, such as piracy and terrorism, this group strives to maintain maritime security.
Information Sharing Working Group: Facilitating the exchange of vital information among member agencies is crucial for coordinating responses to diverse maritime challenges.

Promoting Regional Safety and Security

The 19th HACGAM Meeting marked a significant milestone in advancing safety and security in Asian waters. Member agencies reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced collaboration and coordination, aiming for a more robust response to evolving challenges. The Indian Coast Guard played an active and prominent role in these discussions, leveraging its status as a proactive member across multiple Working Groups.

Conclusion: 19th HACGAM Meeting

The annual HACGAM Meeting underscores the dedication of Asian Coast Guard Agencies to collaborate in addressing pressing maritime challenges. With a steadfast emphasis on cooperation and collective action, the forum endeavors to foster a secure, safe, and pristine maritime environment for all. As the Indian Coast Guard continues to actively contribute to this mission, the future holds the promise of even more substantial maritime cooperation and heightened regional security. Anticipation mounts for the next edition of HACGAM, building upon the successes of previous meetings, including the 2022 gathering in New Delhi.

Priti Palit

Priti Palit, an accomplished edtech writer, boasts a wealth of experience in preparing candidates for multiple government exams. With a passion for education and a keen eye for detail, she has contributed significantly to the field of online learning. Priti’s expertise and dedication continue to empower aspiring individuals in their pursuit of success in government examinations.

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