Port Blair, Oct. 9: On 08 Oct 18, Indian Coast Guard Region(A&N) conducted a Maritime Search and Rescue Workshop for all stake holders present in A&N Region. The workshop was inaugurated by Shri Chetan Bhushan Sanghi, IAS, Chief Secretary, Andaman & Nicobar in the presence of Inspector General MV Pathak, Commander Coast Guard Region(A&N). The event witnessed participation of multiple Maritime-Search and Rescue(M-SAR) stake holder organizations.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Guest praised the dedication and commitment of Coast Guard towards rendering selfless service. He also highlighted the need to strengthen the M-SAR infrastructure and refine the procedures in light of the planned expansion of the maritime sector in the A&N Islands. He also emphasized on the need to maintain the synergy achieved between  all stake holders to realize a prompt response to any incident at sea.

The workshop was aimed at identifying the gaps between the ‘expectations and capabilities’ and thus was structured to present varied perspectives from the M-SAR service provider, Administration and the Maritime Industry.

Participants from M-SAR stake holder organizations, maritime industry, DGS/MMD, DGCA/AAI, DSS, PMB, Indian Registry of Shipping, Department of Fisheries, ISTRAC, INCOIS, DMA, CISF, Customs, Andaman Merchant club, Rep of sport fishing club etc, actively contributed to the discussions during the event.

All the participants & stake holders opined that the workshop was unique and beneficial for both the M-SAR service provider as well as the maritime industry. On conclusion of the workshop,  Inspector General MV Pathak, Commander Coast Guard Region(A&N) felicitated all the distinguished panelists. 

It is opined that such interactions enhance the interagency cooperation and pave way for confidence building between the stake holders.