News Brief
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Flags Regional Instability As Key Threat To India’s Maritime Security
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. (Image via X)
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday (29 September) underlined that instability in neighbouring countries directly affects India’s maritime security, reported The New Indian Express.
He cautioned that disruptions in the region “often spill into the maritime domain”.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the three-day 42nd Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference at ICG Headquarters, Rajnath Singh pointed to the ripple effects of political unrest in Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Nepal.
“Frequent developments in Myanmar, Bangladesh, Nepal, and other regional nations that impact the coastal security, especially in the Bay of Bengal, through refugee influx, illegal migration, and irregular maritime activities,” the Ministry of Defence quoted Singh as saying.
The Defence Minister urged the ICG to remain alert to geopolitical shifts and to respond swiftly to external challenges.
He noted that Bangladesh and Nepal had witnessed regime changes while Myanmar continued to face internal strife, both of which influenced India’s land and maritime borders.
He emphasised its responsibility in safeguarding India’s 7,500 km coastline and island territories, including Lakshadweep and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
“By patrolling the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the ICG not only deters external threats but also addresses illegal fishing, drug and arms trafficking, smuggling, human trafficking, marine pollution, and irregular maritime activities,” Singh said.
He further warned that maritime threats were increasingly technology-driven, citing GPS spoofing, drones, encrypted communications, and digital mapping. Singh also stressed the intrinsic link between maritime security and economic security.
