Sarex-24

• From November 28 to 29, 2024, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) will organize SAREX-24 (National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise) in Kochi, which will be the largest national maritime search and rescue exercise to date.
• This event aims to promote maritime safety, emergency responses, and inter-agency cooperation.
• The theme of SAREX-24 is "Enhancing SAR capabilities through regional cooperation."

Objectives of SAREX-24:

1. Testing Maritime Search and Rescue Capabilities:
   The primary objective of SAREX-24 is to test the capabilities of search and rescue (SAR) in various maritime emergency situations. The exercise will involve the Indian Coast Guard, Indian Navy, police, and other relevant agencies.

2. Rapid Response to Maritime Accidents:
   The exercise will ensure coordination and rapid response among various agencies so that effective assistance can be provided in maritime accidents or other emergency situations.

3. Testing New Technologies and Equipment:
   The exercise will also involve testing new technologies, tools, and strategies for maritime search and rescue, such as the use of drones, satellite communication, and search and rescue vessels.

4. National and International Coordination:
   This exercise will not only promote national maritime security but also strengthen international maritime security cooperation. The ability to work in coordination with different countries and agencies will be tested.

5. Promoting Maritime Safety:
   SAREX-24 is organized by the Indian Coast Guard to promote maritime safety and to enhance the capacity to handle any emergency situation in the sea.

Key Elements of the Exercise:

1. Maritime Search and Rescue Operations:
   During the exercise, simulated scenarios of various maritime accidents will be created, such as ship collisions, man-overboard incidents, or tsunami-like emergencies, requiring quick rescue and relief operations.