In a demonstration of swift maritime response, the Indian Coast Guard successfully conducted a medical evacuation of a young Indian sailor from a foreign vessel off the coast of Goa. The operation, carried out on Friday, highlights the force's constant readiness to protect lives at sea.
Swift Medical Evacuation Off Goa Coast
The urgent call for help came from the UK-flagged merchant ship MV Anglo Marie Louise. A 24-year-old Indian sailor onboard required immediate medical attention. Responding without delay, the Indian Coast Guard ship C-427 rushed to the vessel's location. The crew safely evacuated the sailor, ensuring he received the necessary care.
Detailing the mission on social media platform X, the Coast Guard stated the operation reflected its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives. "The prompt response underscores IGC’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives at sea through professionalism, readiness, and precision," the post read.
Fishermen Brought Home from Sri Lankan Custody
This lifesaving effort was part of a series of critical missions undertaken by the Coast Guard in a short span. In a separate operation on December 19, the force played a key role in repatriating four Indian fishermen who were in Sri Lankan custody.
The Coast Guard ship Rani Durgavati coordinated directly with Sri Lankan authorities at the International Maritime Boundary Line. This successful handover underscored the ongoing cooperation between maritime agencies in the region and ensured the safe return of the Indian nationals to their families.
Crackdown on Illegal Fishing in Indian Waters
Alongside its humanitarian role, the Coast Guard also enforced India's maritime laws robustly. A day earlier, on December 18, the ICGS Anmol intercepted two Bangladeshi fishing boats that were operating illegally inside India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The inspection revealed clear violations. Fishing equipment was active on the boats, and approximately 500 kilograms of fish were found, providing concrete evidence that fishing was actively taking place within Indian waters. A total of 35 crew members were detained for contravening the Maritime Zones of India Act, 1981. The vessels were subsequently handed over to the marine police in Frazerganj for further legal proceedings.
This trio of operations within one week showcases the Indian Coast Guard's multifaceted mandate: from executing urgent medical evacuations and facilitating the return of citizens to vigilantly protecting the nation's maritime resources from illegal activities.
