Port Blair: In a major boost to coastal security, the Andaman and Nicobar Police on Monday launched its first-ever 21-day Intensive Marine Policing Training Programme for 46 Home Guard Volunteers, marking a significant step towards strengthening the Union Territory’s maritime policing capabilities. The programme was inaugurated at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Police Training Institute (NSCBPTI) by Deputy Inspector General of Police (Police Marine Force) Jitendra Kumar Meena in the presence of Superintendent of Police (Police Marine Force) Shweta K. Sugathan, Principal of NSCBPTI Uma Shankar, and other senior police officers.
Jointly organised by the Police Marine Force and NSCBPTI, the training will be held from July 20 to August 9 in accordance with the curriculum prescribed by the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) in consultation with the National Academy of Coastal Policing (NACP), Okha. The initiative follows key decisions taken at the DGPs and IGPs Conference-2025 to reinforce coastal policing and maritime security.
During the programme, the Home Guard Volunteers will undergo classroom instruction, practical sessions, field exercises and assessments, besides coordinated training with the Indian Coast Guard to enhance operational preparedness in marine policing.
Addressing the participants, DIGP Jitendra Kumar Meena highlighted the strategic importance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and emphasised the vital role of a trained Home Guard force in coastal surveillance, preventing illegal maritime activities and responding effectively to emergencies and disasters. SP Shweta K. Sugathan said the programme would equip volunteers with skills in vessel operations, coastal surveillance, search and rescue, disaster response and maintenance of marine assets.
The Andaman and Nicobar Police said the pioneering initiative reflects its continued commitment to developing a modern, professionally trained and technology-driven force to further strengthen the coastal security framework of the Union Territory.
