Port Blair, June 20: To check the effectiveness of Coastal Security mechanism in Andaman & Nicobar Islands, exercise “SagarKavach” is being conducted from 19-20 Jun 19. The Coast Guard, being coordinating agency for Coastal Security, is organizing the whole exercise on behalf of A&N Administration and Andaman & Nicobar Command. Exercise SagarKavach is conducted twice every year with an objective to evaluate the seaward threat to A&N Islands and validate existing standard operating procedures. 

The exercise involves participation by stake holders including Navy, Army, Air Force, A&N Police, PMF, Forest, Fisheries, Customs, PMB, DSS and various intelligence agencies. Fishing community and coastal population are also part of the exercise. Various community awareness programs have been conducted to sensitise the fishing / coastal community on security aspects. Heightened security measures have also been initiated at all the public places and vital areas. Various check posts and roving patrols have been activated in all the Islands. Fishing community and coastal population has been requested to inform Coast Guard and Police on any suspicious activities or eventualities and act as eyes and ears for security agencies.  The help line number of Coast Guard 1554 and Marine Police 1093 is manned 24X7.