The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is one of four branches of the Indian Armed Forces, tasked with the mission to guard the Republic of India's maritime interests. The Indian Coast Guard's organization is similar to that of other Para Military Forces of India. It was created on 18 August 1978 as an independent entity as per the Coast Guard Act. It operates under the effective control of the Ministry of Defense.
The ICG mission is to protect India's maritime interests, including its coastline, exclusive economic zone and shipping. It is also tasked with Indian maritime law enforcement relating to ocean resources, shipping, customs and revenue, maritime environment, protected species as well as narcotics.
The coast guard works in close cooperation with the Indian Navy, Indian department of Fisheries, Department of Revenue (Customs) and the Central and State Police forces. The ICG is generally headed by a naval officer of the rank of Vice-Admiral.
The establishment of the Indian Coast Guard was first proposed by the Indian Navy to provide non-military maritime services to the nation. In the 1960's, sea-borne smuggling of goods was threatening India's domestic economy. The Indian Customs Department frequently called upon the Indian Navy for assistance with patrol and interception in the anti-smuggling effort.
After the 2008 Mumbai attacks, the Indian government has initiated a program to expand the ICG force, assets and infrastructure.
Rank Structure
| Coast Guard Rank Structure | Equivalent Indian Navy Rank Structure |
| Director General | Vice Admiral |
| Inspector General | Rear Admiral |
| Deputy Inspector General+ | Commodore |
| Deputy Inspector General | Captain |
| Commandant | Commander |
| Commandant (Junior Grade) | Commander |
| Deputy Commandant | Lieutenant Commander |
| Assistant Commandant | Lieutenant |
| Assistant Commandant† | Acting Lieutenant |
| Assistant Commandant◊ | Midshipman |
+ With three years seniority † Under training after completion of Phase III afloat training and during sub courses ◊ Under training after completion of Phase II afloat training
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