Nation Mourns the Sudden Demise of Indian Coast Guard Chief Rakesh Pal

The sudden passing of Rakesh Pal, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, prompted heartfelt condolences from top military officials and political leaders. Pal, who was instrumental in enhancing India's maritime security, succumbed to a cardiac arrest. His contributions and leadership will be remembered fondly by many.

Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and the Indian Air Force on Monday extended their heartfelt condolences following the unexpected demise of Rakesh Pal, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard. 'Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of Air Staff and all Air Warriors of #IAF express their deepest condolences on the infelicitous passing away of Shri Rakesh Pal, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, in Chennai. The #IAF offers prayers for the departed soul and stands in strong support of the bereaved family during this difficult time. @IndiaCoastGuard,' the Indian Air Force posted on X.

General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, along with all ranks of the Indian Army, also expressed their heartfelt condolences on Sunday. The Additional Directorate General of Public Information of the Indian Army wrote on X, 'General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS, and all ranks of the Indian Army express their deepest condolences on the untimely demise of Rakesh Pal, Director General, Indian Coast Guard, in Chennai today. The Indian Army offers prayers for the departed soul and stands firm with the bereaved family in this hour of grief.'

DG Rakesh Pal passed away in Chennai after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was administered immediate treatment at Rajiv Gandhi Government Hospital but could not be saved. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin paid their last respects in Chennai. Rajnath Singh expressed his grief on X, stating, 'Pal was an able and committed officer under whose leadership the ICG was making significant strides in strengthening India's maritime security. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family.'

DG Rakesh Pal, an alumnus of the Indian Naval Academy, was the 25th Director General of the Indian Coast Guard. He joined the service in January 1989 and had specialized in gunnery and weapons systems. He was honored with the Tatrakshak Medal in 2013 and the President Tatrakshak Medal in 2018 for his distinguished service.

(With inputs from agencies.)