'Sea Vigil' exercise kicks off along Odisha's Paradip coast

The Indian Navy, Odisha Marine Police, Fisheries Department and as many as 18 organisations are taking part in a two-day ‘Sea Vigil 2021’ exercise along the Paradip Port in Odisha. The exercise is being undertaken to curb smuggling, including men and material, and make an assessment of the preparedness of the naval forces.

Paradip: With an aim to strengthen the coastal security in India, a two-day ‘Sea Vigil 2021’ exercise is being carried out at crucial seaports of India including Paradip Port in Odisha. A total of 18 organisations including Indian Navy, Coast Guard, Odisha Marine Police, Customs Department and Fisheries Department have been participating in the exercise.

Odisha Marine Police Sub Inspector, Jitendra Mani said after the 26/11 attack, the coastal security has been strengthened in India. The exercise is being undertaken to curb smuggling, including men and material, and make an assessment of our preparedness. Also, this will create awareness among fishermen and seafarers.

It is worth mentioning that the first edition of 'Sea Vigil' exercise was carried out in 2019. Similarly, on November 5 and 6, the 'Sagar Kabach' exercise was carried out on the coast of Odisha.

India has around 5,700 km long coastline spread over nine states and four Union Territories. Its islands, including Port Blair and Lakshadeep, are quite vulnerable to intrusions.