Raksha Mantri unveils landmark policy reforms for ICG personnel & their families

Why in news

The Raksha Mantri has introduced two significant policy reforms for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) concerning gender parity in officer induction and service conditions, and streamlining ex-gratia payments to families of personnel missing at sea.

Exam relevance

GS2, GS1 · Governance, Society, Internal Security · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Two policy reforms have been unveiled for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
2. The reforms aim to promote gender parity in the induction and service conditions of officers.
3. The reforms also aim to streamline administrative procedures for granting ex-gratia to families of personnel missing at sea while on duty.
4. The policy includes induction of women candidates into both Short Service Appointments (SSA) and Permanent Appointments (PA) at par with male counterparts.
5. The ICG is marching towards its Golden Jubilee in 2027.

Prelims pointers

• The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is set to celebrate its Golden Jubilee in 2027.
• Policy reforms for ICG include gender-neutral induction for officers.
• Women candidates will be inducted into both Short Service Appointments (SSA) and Permanent Appointments (PA) in the ICG.
• Reforms also address ex-gratia payments for families of personnel missing at sea.

Mains practice question

Examine the significance of recent policy reforms aimed at promoting gender parity and enhancing welfare measures within the Indian Coast Guard. How do these reforms contribute to the overall operational efficacy and morale of the force?

Static linkage

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is a maritime law enforcement and search and rescue agency of India. It was established by the Coast Guard Act, 1978. It operates under the Ministry of Defence. The reforms touch upon gender equality and welfare measures for armed forces personnel, which are recurring themes in governance and social justice discussions.

Significance

These policy reforms are significant as they promote gender equality within the Indian Coast Guard by ensuring gender-neutral induction and career progression for officers. This aligns with broader national objectives of empowering women and ensuring equal opportunities. Additionally, streamlining ex-gratia payments for families of personnel lost at sea addresses critical welfare concerns, potentially boosting morale and operational efficacy of the force. The reforms reflect the government's commitment to modernizing and strengthening the ICG as a capable maritime force.