Indian Navy’s Sea Vigil-24: A Massive Coastal Defence Exercise
The Indian Navy is preparing for the fourth edition of the ‘Pan-India’ Coastal Defence Exercise, Sea Vigil-24, scheduled for November 20 and 21. This exercise will be the largest of its kind, involving six ministries and 21 organizations. The Coastal Defence and Security Readiness Evaluation (CDSRE) phase has been ongoing since late October, with audits of coastal defence infrastructure across all coastal states and Union Territories, including Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
For the first time, officials from the National Security Council Secretariat will join the Indian Navy-led CDSRE teams, alongside personnel from the State Marine Police, Coast Guard, Customs, and Fisheries. The exercise aims to enhance the security of coastal assets such as ports, oil rigs, and critical infrastructure. This year, the Indian Army and Air Force will also participate, deploying numerous ships and aircraft.
Sea Vigil was first conceptualized in 2018 to strengthen coastal defence following the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. It covers the entire 11,098 km coastline and a vast Exclusive Economic Zone of 2.4 million square kilometers. The exercise involves all maritime stakeholders, including the fishing community and coastal residents, to raise awareness about maritime security.
Sea Vigil is a national-level initiative that evaluates India’s maritime defence capabilities, identifying strengths and weaknesses. It serves as a precursor to the Theatre Level Readiness Operational Exercise (TROPEX), reinforcing India’s commitment to protecting its maritime boundaries.
Doubts Revealed
Indian Navy -: The Indian Navy is the naval branch of the Indian Armed Forces. It is responsible for protecting India’s maritime borders and ensuring safe and secure seas.
Sea Vigil-24 -: Sea Vigil-24 is a coastal defence exercise conducted by the Indian Navy. It is designed to test and improve the security of India’s coastline and maritime areas.
Coastal Defence Exercise -: A coastal defence exercise is a practice event where the navy and other organizations work together to protect the coast from threats. It helps them prepare for real-life situations.
Ministries and Organizations -: Ministries are parts of the government responsible for different areas, like defence or health. Organizations are groups that work together for a common purpose, like the police or security agencies.
National Security Council Secretariat -: The National Security Council Secretariat is a part of the Indian government that helps make decisions about the country’s safety and security.
State Marine Police -: The State Marine Police are police forces that work on water bodies like rivers and seas. They help keep the waters safe and secure.
Maritime Security -: Maritime security means protecting the seas and oceans from threats like pirates or illegal activities. It ensures safe travel and trade on water.
Exclusive Economic Zone -: An Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is a sea area where a country has special rights to use marine resources. It extends up to 200 nautical miles from the coast.