Security along the Indian coast remains “strong”, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi on Friday — a statement that assumes significance as India steps up vigil in light of the ongoing political instability in Bangladesh.
Coastal security is an important responsibility of the Indian Navy and the Coast Guard, the Navy chief said while visiting INS Chilka to attend the passing out parade of Agniveers.
“There are structures to ensure coastal security. We are doing exercises. We are interacting with coastal states. The Indian Navy and Coast Guard are discharging the responsibility well,” he said.
Although Tripathi refused to remark on the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh, his statement holds significance in light of the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh and the departure of its ex-prime minister Sheikh Hasina. The crisis has sparked fears of illegal immigration in India.
Odisha, which has a long coastline of around 480 km, has already sounded alert to the coastal districts such as Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Bhadrak and Balasore. The state government has also held a meeting with various agencies — including the Indian Navy — to secure its coasts.
The Navy chief also lauded the young Agniveers and their performances during the parade. A total of 1,389 Agniveers — including 214 women — joined service Friday following 16 weeks of training.