Sri Vijaya Puram, May 16: The coastal security exercise “Sagar Kavach – SKV BLUE-01/26” conducted in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands concluded on Thursday after a two-day operation involving multiple security and enforcement agencies.
The exercise was conducted from 6 am on May 14 to 6 pm on May 15 under the coordination of the Indian Coast Guard.
The exercises was aimed at assessing and validating the existing coastal security mechanism in the Islands through simulated operational scenarios involving attempted maritime intrusions and attacks on identified vital areas and vital points.
During the exercise, simulated “Red Force” elements attempted infiltration from the seaward side while mock attacks on land-based installations were also carried out as part of the security drill.
The exercises was intended to evaluate preparedness, response capability, coastal surveillance systems and inter-agency coordination in maritime and coastal areas.
Participating security agencies intercepted and apprehended the simulated infiltrators during the course of the exercise.
The exercise involved deployment of personnel and marine assets across different coastal areas of the Islands.
According to officials, the Andaman and Nicobar Police participated in coastal patrolling, surveillance activities and security deployment at identified vital locations during the exercise period.
Police units from all three districts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands reportedly took part in the operation along with other participating agencies.
The exercise also included coordination between maritime security agencies, coastal police units and local operational teams to test communication and response systems during simulated security situations.
Officials stated that such exercises are conducted periodically to assess operational readiness and improve response mechanisms against possible maritime security threats.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands hold strategic importance due to their geographical location along major international sea routes and proximity to the eastern Indian Ocean region.
Security agencies have increasingly focused on strengthening coastal surveillance and maritime monitoring systems in the region in view of evolving security challenges and illegal maritime activities.
Authorities stated that exercises such as Sagar Kavach help identify operational gaps, improve coordination and strengthen preparedness among agencies responsible for coastal and maritime security.
Officials also acknowledged the cooperation of the general public during the conduct of the exercise.
Residents have been advised to report suspicious coastal or maritime activities to authorities through emergency and security helpline numbers including 1093 and 03192-239247.
