Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today unveiled two significant policy reforms for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) personnel and their families. The policy reforms are aimed at promoting gender parity in the induction and service conditions of officers. It also streamlines the administrative procedures for granting ex gratia to the families of personnel reported missing at sea while on duty.

 

Lauding the ICG for its exemplary service over the past five decades, the Defence Minister exuded confidence that these forward-looking policies will further strengthen the morale and operational efficacy of the force as it marches toward its Golden Jubilee in 2027. He reaffirmed Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government’s resolve to strengthen the ICG as a modern, capable and future-ready maritime force.

 

The first policy directive establishes a comprehensive, women-centric approach by ushering in a gender-neutral framework for the induction of officers into the ICG. The highlights of the policy include the induction of women candidates into both Short Service Appointments and Permanent Appointments at par with their male counterparts. Short Service Appointments have also been opened for male candidates.

 

The second policy reform brings relief and administrative ease to the Next of Kin of the personnel who unfortunately go missing at sea in the line of duty. The key highlights of the policy include the authority to declare an ICG personnel missing at sea while on duty as presumed dead for ex gratia. This measure ensures that the families of brave personnel are not subjected to prolonged administrative delays during times of mental trauma.