Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 09 August 2025
The Department of Fisheries, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, in partnership with the Police Marine Force (PMF), conducted a joint awareness programme on coastal security on 8th August 2025, at the Fisheries Training Centre, Marine Hill. The initiative aimed to strengthen vigilance and preparedness against maritime threats including smuggling, illegal immigration, piracy, terrorism, and other unlawful activities along the Islands’ coastline.
Targeting Area Fishery Officers and Sagar Mitras from all three districts, the session saw physical attendance from South Andaman officials, while participants from North and Middle Andaman and Nicobar districts joined virtually.
Ms. Jagtap Kalyani Rajendra, Director of Fisheries, inaugurated the programme and stressed the critical role fisheries officials play in coastal security. She highlighted the need for close coordination among the Police, Fisheries Department, coastal security agencies, and fishing communities to establish an integrated surveillance network. “Officers must remain alert, proactive, and responsive to any suspicious activity during their field visits and interactions with fishermen,” she said.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. M K Shukla, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Police Marine Force, Sri Vijaya Puram, emphasized the importance of field-level awareness and swift action. He urged officials to report any suspicious activities promptly, especially around Fish Landing Centres and harbours. Mr. Shukla announced plans for thorough verification of Fishermen ID Cards at landing centres to bolster security. He also advised fishermen to operate in pairs when venturing into distant waters to ensure safety. Inspector Girish Kumar of PMF also spoke during the event.
An interactive session followed, where officials discussed challenges faced during coastal surveillance, including inadequate monitoring infrastructure at Fish Landing Centres and the need for stronger community engagement. Suggestions were made to enhance security through regular joint patrols, community sensitization programmes, and improved communication between fisheries personnel and the police marine force.
The programme concluded on a positive note, with all participants pledging their commitment to safeguarding the maritime boundaries of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
