Sagar Kavach Coastal Security Drill Begins Along Odisha Coast With 18 Agencies

Bhubaneswar: A two-day multi-agency coastal security exercise, ‘Sagar Kavach’, began along the Odisha coastline on Tuesday, with participation from 18 central and state agencies aimed at strengthening maritime surveillance and response capabilities.

The large-scale drill brings together key stakeholders including the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), along with departments of Forest and Fisheries, Customs authorities, district administrations, Paradip Port Authority, and several industrial units.

Conducted twice a year, the exercise focuses on improving coordination among agencies and sharpening response mechanisms against potential maritime threats, especially infiltration attempts through sea routes.

The importance of such drills has grown significantly since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, which exposed vulnerabilities in coastal security and led to a nationwide strengthening of maritime defence systems.

During the exercise, participating units are divided into two groups. The “Red Team” simulates hostile elements attempting to infiltrate through maritime channels, while the “Blue Team”, comprising security forces, is tasked with detecting, intercepting, and neutralising the threat.

The drill includes surveillance operations, mock interdictions, and coordinated tactical responses designed to replicate real-world scenarios. Officials said the exercise also helps identify operational gaps and refine standard operating procedures.

The exercise will conclude on Wednesday, followed by a detailed debrief to assess performance and further strengthen coastal security architecture along the Odisha coast.