India’s Coastal Security in the Light of Recent Events
India’s Coastal Security Strategy Amid Red Sea Crisis and Maritime Threats
India’s 7,500 km coastline is both a strategic asset and a security challenge. With major ports, naval bases, refineries, and economic zones along its shores, safeguarding this maritime frontier is critical to national security and economic stability.
Post-26/11 Coastal Security Reforms
The 2008 Mumbai attacks exposed vulnerabilities in India’s maritime defense. Since then, India has:
- Established Joint Command Centres in Mumbai, Kochi, Vishakhapatnam, and Port Blair.
- Implemented a three-tier security system involving the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Coastal Police.
- Strengthened Marine Police Forces at the state level for better surveillance and patrolling.
Red Sea Crisis and Strategic Implications
The Red Sea crisis, triggered by regional conflicts and Houthi attacks on shipping, has heightened India’s maritime concerns:
- The Gujarat coast lies just 2,000 km from the Arabian Peninsula.
- Attacks on Indian and foreign vessels, including drone strikes, have prompted anti-piracy operations by the Indian Navy.
- India deployed INS Kochi and INS Kolkata to the Gulf of Aden for patrol and rescue missions.
Key Maritime Security Priorities
Protecting Territorial Waters and EEZ
India must secure its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and territorial waters from threats like smuggling, piracy, and terrorism.
Cooperative Federalism in Security
Coordination between central and state agencies is vital. Regular joint exercises involving the Navy, Coast Guard, Customs, and Coastal Police are essential.
Strategic Diplomacy and Global Partnerships
Collaborate with West Asian nations, USA, and QUAD members.
Engage in multilateral maritime security frameworks like I2U2.
Strengthen ties with allies to secure trade routes and counter piracy.