Maharashtra CS Reviews Coastal Security Preparedness

By Raju Vernekar

Mumbai:  The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully conducted the Conjoined Coastal Security Exercise, “Sagar Kavach-02/26”, along the coastlines of Maharashtra and Goa from 30 September to 01 October 2026.

 This two-day exercise rigorously tested the region’s coastal security apparatus and evaluated multi-agency readiness against maritime contingencies, witnessing the active participation of over 4800 stakeholders.

 On October 01, 2026, Wednesday, Maharashtra Chief Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal, accompanied by senior state officials, reviewed the exercise’s progress at Girgaum beach, in South Mumbai. The high-level review featured a joint Operational Demonstration (Op Demo) by the National Security Guard (NSG) and the Coast Guard Rapid Reaction Team (RRT), which was subsequently followed by a dedicated coastal surveillance sortie to assess the synergy and rapid response capabilities required to secure vital coastal installations against potential asymmetric threats.

 To evaluate the coastal security apparatus, the exercise simulated a series of coordinated attacks and infiltrations across vulnerable locations, including Revdanda, Palghar, Alibaug, Goa and various landing points. A major highlight of the exercise was a specialized joint tactical drill executed by the NSG tactical team and the ICG RRT at Mazgaon Dockyard Limited (MDL), in South Mumbai, designed to neutralize simulated hostile contingencies on critical maritime infrastructure.

 Building upon established coastal security frameworks, the exercise mobilized a comprehensive array of maritime and aerial assets. The tactical deployment included ICG/IN ships, Dornier aircraft, helicopters and Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs). To ensure a seamless multi-layered Coastal Security Network, the exercise successfully integrated resources and personnel from an expansive roster of participating agencies, including the Indian Navy, State Police, NSG, Intelligence Agencies, Customs, CISF, NCC, Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Fisheries Authorities, Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), NCB and SIB.

 Through these intensive simulated infiltration drills, security forces effectively validated their standard operating procedures, communication networks, and inter-agency coordination. The successful execution of “Sagar Kavach-02/26” reaffirmed the steadfast commitment of the maritime security community to maintaining a robust and impenetrable shield along the western seaboard, an ICG release stated.