Sweeping the Seas: India's Unified Maritime Defense Drill

India's pan-India maritime defence exercise, 'Sea Vigil', aims to assess and enhance the current preparedness of maritime security agencies. Set for November 20-21, its unprecedented scale involves multiple ministries and organizations, aiming to strengthen coastal assets and raise maritime security awareness among communities.

India is gearing up for 'Exercise Sea Vigil', a comprehensive coastal defence drill set for November 20-21. Aimed at evaluating and enhancing maritime security readiness across the nation, this exercise brings together multiple services, including the Indian Army and Air Force, and has been conceptualized to improve measures post-26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

This year's edition promises an unprecedented scope, engaging six ministries and 21 organizations. A national-level initiative, 'Exercise Sea Vigil' consistently appraises India's maritime defence capabilities. The Naval-led exercise will span the entire 11,098-km coastline, involving the extensive Exclusive Economic Zone, and the coastal security infrastructure.

Emphasizing the protection of assets such as ports and oil rigs, the exercise seeks to boost awareness among coastal communities. Participation of fishing communities, students, and National Security Council Secretariat officials marks its comprehensive outreach. As a precursor to the biannual Theatre Level Readiness Operational Exercise, Sea Vigil underscores India's dedication to safeguarding maritime boundaries.

(With inputs from agencies.)