Question : Illegal Activities along Coastal Areas

(a) whether cases of infiltration, smuggling and terrorism through the coastal areas of the country have come to the notice of the Government during each of the last three years and the current year and if so, the details thereof, State / UT-wise;

(b) whether the Government’s security agencies have sought private sector’s participation to counter the menace of infiltration, smuggling and terrorism in the country;

(c) if so, the details thereof along with the assistance extended by the private sector in this regard so far;

(d) whether any suggestions have been sought from the State Governments for strengthening coastal security and if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the other measures taken / being taken by the Government to strengthen coastal security to check infiltration, smuggling and terrorist activities along with the achievements thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (DR. SUBHASH BHAMRE)
IN THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
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(a) There is no reported case of infiltration of terrorists by breach of coastline during the last three years and the current year. The number of cases State / UT wise of apprehension of smuggled contraband reported by Indian Coast Guard during last 3 years and the current year are as follows:

Tamil Nadu Gujarat Maharashtra West Bengal Lakshadweep
5 2 1 1 2

(b) & (c): No, Madam.

(d) & (e): Implementation of the Coastal Security is reviewed periodically by National Committee on Strengthening Maritime and Coastal Security (NCSMCS) and also by the Steering Committee under the Chairmanship of Secretary, Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs with all stakeholders, including coastal States/UTs and their suggestions are taken into consideration for strengthening coastal security. Indian Coast Guard conducts Coastal Security Exercises involving all stakeholders. On completion of the exercise, a meeting/de-briefing is held under the Chairmanship of respective Chief Secretaries of the States and necessary recommendations given are incorporated in the Standard Operating procedures.
Review and monitoring of coastal security mechanism is a continuous process. Several measures to strengthen Coastal Security, including improving surveillance mechanism and enhanced patrolling (24 x 7) by security agencies following an integrated approach have been put in place. Joint operational exercises are conducted on regular basis among Navy, Coast Guard, Coastal Police, customs and others. The intelligence mechanism has been streamlined through the creation of Joint Operation Centers and multi-agency coordination mechanism. Static radars have been installed along the Indian Coastline for electronic surveillance of vessels traffic.

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