On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has reaffirmed its commitment to marine conservation, underscoring its role as the nation’s maritime environmental guardian. In line with the global theme of #BeatPlasticPollution, the ICG has undertaken a series of coastal clean-up missions under the umbrella of government-led initiatives and campaigns, including the Swachh Sagar Surakshit Sagar, Puneet Sagar Abhiyan, and Mission LiFE.
Throughout last year, the ICG has executed over 58 major coastal clean-up operations, resulting in the removal of more than 194 tonnes of plastic debris from India’s shorelines. These operations underscore ICG’s integrated approach to maritime environmental security and sustainable coastal management. Furthermore, the Service has reaffirmed its commitment to a plastic-free shoreline on World Environment Day, underscoring its ongoing efforts in marine conservation. By coordinating with local communities, civil authorities, and environmental agencies, the ICG continues to build a resilient and pollution-free maritime ecosystem.
In Marine Conservation Efforts, the ICG Safeguards an 11,000 km Coastal Frontier
India’s coastline, stretching over 11,000 kilometers, encompasses a complex network of mangroves, coral reefs, estuaries, and nesting beaches, all of which are critical to the country’s maritime biodiversity and coastal livelihoods. The Indian Coast Guard operates as the principal maritime law enforcement agency, securing these vital ecosystems against environmental threats.
Dedicated Pollution Control Vessels (PCVs) such as ICGS Samudra Prahari, Samudra Paheredar, and Samudra Pavak serve as force multipliers in India’s maritime pollution response strategy. These vessels are equipped with advanced equipment for containment and recovery of oil spills, chemical dispersant systems, and aerial surveillance capabilities. Their operational readiness was demonstrated during the National Pollution Response Exercise (NATPOLREX), which involved over 50 key stakeholders, including the Directorate General of Shipping, Indian Navy, and environmental watchdog agencies.
Marine Conservation Through Rapid Response – ICG
The ICG’s capabilities are central to India’s Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR) and Marine Pollution Response (MPR) architecture. In recent years, the ICG has carried out several rescue and relief operations, such as the swift MEDEVAC operation Near Port Blair, immediate relief and rescue operations in Wayanad, Kerala, and the rescue of the stranded bulk carrier Off the Alibaug Coast to name a few. The threat of marine pollution has intensified due to increased maritime traffic, offshore drilling, and industrial discharge, which the ICG offers to combat through rapid and precise response.
Through multi-agency coordination and real-time monitoring, the ICG has institutionalized protocols for marine response, consistent with international standards such as the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation (OPRC). The Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to maritime environmental safety positions it as a model among regional navies and coast guards.
Marine Conservation Beyond Pollution Control: Operation Olivia
In addition to environmental protection, the ICG plays a pivotal role in marine wildlife conservation. The flagship Operation Olivia, conducted annually along the Odisha coastline, provided round-the-clock surveillance and support to protect the olive ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea). In 2025 alone, the operation safeguarded the nesting of over 698,000 turtles, a critical contribution to the survival of this vulnerable species under IUCN’s Red List.
Anti-Poaching Operations in Strategic Island Territories
Operating in the sensitive maritime region of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the ICG continues to intensify its anti-poaching operations to prevent illegal harvesting and trafficking of endangered marine species, such as sea cucumbers, corals, and marine mollusks. The Special Operations Team (SOT) and Coast Guard Dornier aircraft conduct routine patrols to enforce maritime boundaries and deter foreign intrusions linked to marine poaching activities.
Advancing Maritime Governance On World Environment Day
The Indian Coast Guard’s initiatives on World Environment Day 2025 exemplify its expanding operational charter in the field of Maritime Environmental Governance (MEG). As a key stakeholder in India’s Blue Economy framework, the ICG integrates environmental responsibility with maritime security, ensuring safe and sustainable use of marine resources.
Through strategic programs, cross-sectoral collaboration, and enforcement of Maritime Environmental Protection (MEP) regulations, the ICG sets a precedent in regional environmental leadership where its efforts align with the nation’s vision under SDG 14: Life Below Water, reinforcing commitments to conserve marine life and reduce oceanic pollution.
