The Indian Coast Guard conducted the 9th National Level Pollution Response Exercise (NATPOLREX-IX) on November 25, 2023, near Vadinar, Gujarat. During the exercise, DG Rakesh Pal, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, and the Chairman of NOSDCP assessed the readiness of all participating agencies. Several representatives from various ministries, central and coastal state governments, ports, oil handling agencies, and other stakeholders joined the exercise. Over 31 foreign observers and 80 delegates also took part.
NATPOLREX-IX successfully evaluated the preparedness and coordination among different agencies in responding to marine oil spills, utilizing the National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOSDCP).
The Indian Coast Guard utilized both surface and air platforms, such as Pollution Response Vessels (PRVs), Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), Advanced Light Helicopter Mk-III, and Dornier Aircraft configured for marine pollution response. The event highlighted India’s industrial capabilities under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’. Major ports also contributed their maritime assets, emphasizing collaborative efforts in combating marine pollution.
The Indian Coast Guard took over the responsibility of safeguarding the marine environment in India’s maritime zones from the Ministry of Shipping on March 7, 1986. They subsequently formulated the NOSDCP to address oil spill disasters at sea, which received approval from the Committee of Secretaries in 1993. Additionally, the Coast Guard established Pollution Response Centers in Mumbai, Chennai, Port Blair, and Vadinar.
India’s reliance on imported oil for 75 percent of its energy needs underscores the significance of a robust national oil spill response system. Transporting oil via ships carries inherent risks, necessitating preventive measures from both ship owners and oil receiving facilities in ports. Despite these precautions, the threat of oil pollution due to maritime accidents and unpredictable sea perils remains constant.
The Indian Coast Guard operates as the primary coordinating authority for responding to oil spills in Indian waters.