Indian Coast Guard Hosts First Shipbuilding, Indigenisation & IT Conference to Boost Maritime Capabilities.
Indian Coast Guard Conference.
Madikeri, Karnataka, 27 November 2025 — In a landmark event that signals a new phase of self-reliance and technological advancement, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) hosted its inaugural Shipbuilding, Indigenisation & IT Conference in Madikeri, Karnataka, on November 27, 2025. The conference brought together key stakeholders from India’s shipbuilding industry, defence innovation sectors, and the IT domain to discuss and align strategies for strengthening India’s maritime defence capabilities.
One of the most significant outcomes of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ICG and the Coimbatore District Small Industries Association (CDSIA) along with the Defence Innovation & Atal Incubation Centre. This partnership aims to further India’s indigenisation efforts and foster the growth of the defence innovation ecosystem through the establishment of a Defence Innovation Hub in Coimbatore.
Promoting Indigenous Shipbuilding and Technological Advancements
In his opening address, Director General Paramesh Sivamani, DG of the Indian Coast Guard, emphasised the strategic importance of achieving self-reliance in shipbuilding and enhancing operational capabilities through indigenous designs. He highlighted the significant role of digital infrastructure and resilient supply chains in bolstering the Coast Guard’s operational readiness.
“Self-reliance in shipbuilding is crucial for India’s maritime security. Indigenous designs, coupled with advanced digital capabilities, will form the bedrock of our future operations,” said DG Sivamani. He also expressed his appreciation for the role of Indian shipyards and equipment manufacturers, which have been instrumental in supporting the ICG’s growth.
One of the key milestones of the ICG’s indigenisation journey was the successful progression of its 200th indigenously built vessel—the fourth Pollution Control Ship—which is currently undergoing sea trials. DG Sivamani described the vessel as a testament to the technical proficiency and engineering excellence of ICG’s personnel, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to advancing its capabilities with homegrown solutions.
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Advancing the Digital Coast Guard Vision
A major focus of the conference was the Project Digital Coast Guard, an ambitious long-term initiative designed to create a secure, scalable, and resilient digital infrastructure for all ICG units. DG Sivamani discussed the importance of aligning digital expansion with robust cybersecurity measures to ensure that the ICG remains operationally resilient in an increasingly complex technological landscape.
As part of the event, DG Sivamani released three critical documents that outlined the future of the ICG’s technological development:
The teaser for the e-book ‘History of Shipbuilding in the Indian Coast Guard’: This e-book offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of shipbuilding within the ICG and the milestones that have shaped its current capabilities.
The Roadmap for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in ICG: A strategic plan for integrating AI technologies into the Coast Guard’s operations, aimed at enhancing decision-making, automation, and maritime surveillance.
The ICG Cyber Crisis Management Plan-2025: A forward-thinking cybersecurity framework that prepares the Coast Guard to manage and mitigate emerging cyber threats.
These documents further emphasised the ICG’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to strengthen its operational readiness and digital infrastructure.
Strengthening Synergies and Promoting Technological Innovation
The conference provided a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration between various stakeholders in the maritime, defence, and technological sectors. Senior dignitaries, leading shipyards, equipment manufacturers, classification societies, and subject-matter experts from across the maritime domain gathered to share insights and align strategies on the future needs of the ICG.
The discussions focused on accelerating India’s efforts towards an Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) by fostering technological innovation and indigenisation in shipbuilding and maritime defence systems. Participants explored ways to advance the ICG’s digital transformation, increase the participation of Indian firms in defence manufacturing, and enhance collaboration between government bodies, private industry, and research institutions.
“The conference marks a decisive step towards building a technologically advanced, operationally superior, and fully indigenous maritime force,” said an ICG official, underscoring the importance of the event in shaping the future of India’s maritime security.
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Looking Ahead: Building a Future-Ready Maritime Force
The conference highlighted India’s ongoing efforts to modernise and strengthen its naval and coast guard capabilities through indigenisation, technological innovation, and digital transformation. By fostering partnerships with industry players and research institutions, the ICG is positioning itself as a forward-thinking, self-reliant maritime force that can meet the challenges of the future.
As India continues to prioritise self-reliance in defence and maritime security, events like the Shipbuilding, Indigenisation & IT Conference will play a pivotal role in advancing the country’s maritime ambitions and strengthening its strategic capabilities in the region.
