Raksha Mantri Announces Indian Coast Guard Policy Reforms

On 28 July 2026, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh announced two policy reforms for the Indian Coast Guard at Kartavya Bhavan-2 in New Delhi. The reforms cover gender-neutral induction and service conditions for officers, and administrative procedures for ex-gratia support to families of personnel missing at sea while on duty.

Indian Coast Guard

The Indian Coast Guard is a maritime armed force under the Ministry of Defence. It was established in 1977 and functions under the Coast Guard Act, 1978. Its core duties include maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, marine environment protection, and assistance to the Indian Navy during wartime.

Gender-Neutral Induction Policy

The new framework allows women candidates to be inducted into both Short Service Appointments and Permanent Appointments on the same terms as male candidates. Short Service Appointments are time-bound commissions, while Permanent Appointments provide a longer career structure in uniformed service. The policy also provides equal career progression opportunities for women officers from the initial training stage. Women officers already serving on Short Service Appointments can opt for conversion to Permanent Appointment, subject to prescribed conditions.

Ex-Gratia Procedure for Missing Personnel

The second reform simplifies administrative procedures for granting ex-gratia to families of Indian Coast Guard personnel reported missing at sea while on duty. Ex-gratia is a financial assistance payment made by the government in specific cases, including service-related deaths or missing personnel, under applicable rules. The announcement was made in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Director General of the Indian Coast Guard Paramesh Sivamani. The Indian Coast Guard operates along India’s coastline, exclusive economic zone, and island territories.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Indian Coast Guard was established in 1977 and came under the Coast Guard Act, 1978.
• The Indian Coast Guard functions under the Ministry of Defence.
• Short Service Appointments are limited-term commissions, while Permanent Appointments are career-long service structures.
• Ex-gratia is a discretionary financial relief provided by the government in specified cases.