Press Information Bureau

On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) reaffirmed its leading role in marine conservation and sustainable maritime governance. With over 58 major coastal clean-up operations removing more than 194 tonnes of plastic waste in the past year, the ICG has significantly contributed to this year’s global theme, #BeatPlasticPollution, under flagship campaigns such as Swachh Sagar Surakshit Sagar, Puneet Sagar Abhiyan, and Mission LiFE.

Operating along India’s extensive 11,000 km coastline, the ICG safeguards critical ecosystems including coral reefs, mangroves, and nesting beaches that support coastal biodiversity and livelihoods. The service also acts as the nation’s frontline defense against marine environmental hazards. With pollution control vessels like Samudra Prahari, Samudra Paheredar, and Samudra Pavak, the ICG leads swift response efforts against oil spills and chemical pollution, reinforced through large-scale NATPOLREX exercises involving over 50 national stakeholders.

Beyond pollution control, the ICG continues to play a vital role in wildlife conservation. In 2025, Operation Olivia protected over 6.98 lakh olive ridley turtles nesting along Odisha’s coast. Anti-poaching efforts in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands further curbed the illegal trade of endangered marine species, including sea cucumbers and corals.

*****

SR/KB