Indian Coast Guard’s SAREX-2026

Source: PIB / Indian Coast Guard

Why in News?

The Indian Coast Guard conducted the 12th National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX-2026) off the coast of Paradip, Odisha, on 8 October 2026 to strengthen maritime safety, technological preparedness and inter-agency coordination.

About SAREX-2026:

• Organiser: Indian Coast Guard under the aegis of the National Maritime Search and Rescue Board (NMSARB).

• Theme: “Leveraging Technology to Strengthen SAR Preparedness and Maritime Safety”.

• International Participation: 32 observers from 30 countries.

• Objective: To enhance operational readiness, interoperability and coordinated responses during large-scale maritime emergencies.

Key Features of the Exercise:

• Mass Rescue Operation (MRO): Simulated an aircraft ditching and collision with a container vessel, requiring large-scale rescue operations.

• Assets Deployed: 15 Indian Coast Guard ships, Indian Air Force C-130J and Mi-17 aircraft, and two Indian Navy ships.

• Rescue Techniques: Helicopter evacuation, deployment of life rafts and use of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs).

• Multi-Agency Coordination: Tested cooperation among maritime and aeronautical agencies during complex emergencies.

Key Concepts:

National Maritime Search and Rescue Board (NMSARB): Apex body responsible for coordinating maritime search-and-rescue activities in India.

SAGAR: Security and Growth for All in the Region — India’s vision for cooperation, security and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean Region.

MAHASAGAR: Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions — India’s broader vision for maritime cooperation and engagement with countries across regions.

Significance for India:

• Maritime Safety: Strengthens preparedness for ship accidents, aircraft emergencies and mass-casualty incidents at sea.

• Regional Cooperation: Builds trust and operational interoperability with international partners.

• Technological Advancement: Promotes the use of advanced rescue equipment and technology-driven emergency response.

• Humanitarian Role: Reinforces India’s position as a reliable search-and-rescue partner in the Indian Ocean Region.

• Blue Economy: Supports safer maritime transport, trade and commercial activities.

Challenges:

• Vast maritime areas and long coastlines to monitor.

• Difficult weather and sea conditions during rescue operations.

• Need for real-time information sharing and coordination among multiple agencies.

• Requirement for advanced equipment, trained personnel and regular joint exercises.

Way Forward:

• Strengthen satellite-based surveillance and maritime communication systems.

• Expand joint exercises and information-sharing mechanisms with regional partners.

• Improve availability of modern rescue aircraft, vessels, ROVs and emergency medical support.

• Enhance training and preparedness for mass-casualty incidents.

Conclusion:

SAREX-2026 strengthens India’s maritime emergency-response capabilities through technology, inter-agency coordination and international cooperation, supporting safer seas and India’s broader maritime vision.