New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday unveiled two major policy reforms for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), introducing gender-neutral officer induction and simplifying ex-gratia compensation procedures for families of personnel who go missing at sea while on duty.
The announcements were made at Kartavya Bhavan-2 in New Delhi in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Director General Indian Coast Guard Paramesh Sivamani, and senior officials.
Praising the Indian Coast Guard’s outstanding contribution over the past five decades, Rajnath Singh said the new reforms would strengthen the force’s morale and operational efficiency as it prepares to celebrate its Golden Jubilee in 2027. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to building a modern, capable, and future-ready maritime force.
Equal Opportunities for Women Officers
The first reform introduces a gender-neutral framework for officer recruitment and career progression. Under the new policy:
- Women will now be inducted through both Short Service Appointments (SSA) and Permanent Appointments (PA) on par with men.
- Short Service Appointments have also been opened to male candidates.
- Women officers will receive equal opportunities for training, promotions, and career advancement.
- Existing women officers serving under SSA will have the option to convert to Permanent Appointments, subject to eligibility.
- Women officers already serving under Permanent Appointments will also be eligible for higher promotions based on merit and service conditions.
The policy aligns with the Government’s vision of promoting Nari Shakti and ensuring equal opportunities in India’s maritime security forces.
Faster Relief for Families of Missing Personnel
The second reform aims to ease administrative procedures for families of Coast Guard personnel who go missing at sea during duty. The policy authorises the declaration of such personnel as “presumed dead” for the purpose of granting ex-gratia compensation and terminal benefits. This will significantly reduce delays in providing financial assistance and other benefits to the next of kin, ensuring timely support during difficult circumstances. The reforms are expected to strengthen welfare measures for Coast Guard personnel while enhancing operational readiness and institutional efficiency.