Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday unveiled two landmark policy reforms for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), expanding equal-opportunity induction for women officers and fast-tracking ex-gratia compensation for families of personnel reported missing at sea while on duty. The announcements, made in New Delhi, mark a structural shift in how India's maritime security force recruits, retains, and supports its personnel.

Equal Opportunity in Induction and Career Progression

Under the new framework, women candidates will be eligible for induction into both Short Service Appointments (SSA) and Permanent Appointments (PA) on par with their male counterparts. The SSA has simultaneously been opened to male candidates as well, broadening the recruitment base across genders.

Crucially, the reforms extend beyond entry-level parity. Existing women officers on PA will now be considered for promotion to higher ranks, subject to fulfilling eligibility conditions. Women officers currently serving on SSA will also be given the option to convert to a PA, provided they meet stipulated criteria — a move that could significantly improve long-term career retention among women in the force.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) stated that equal opportunities will commence from the ab-initio training phase itself. 'This progressive step reflects the Government's commitment to Nari Shakti and equal opportunity in the nation's maritime security apparatus,' the MoD said in an official statement.

ICG's History With Women Officers

The ICG has historically positioned itself as a gender-neutral force. Women officers have already served as pilots on Dornier aircraft and Air Cushion Vehicle (hovercraft) platforms, in addition to administrative roles. The new policy builds on this foundation by institutionalising equal career pathways rather than leaving progression to case-by-case discretion.

Relief for Families of Personnel Missing at Sea

The second reform addresses a long-standing administrative gap. Henceforth, an ICG personnel reported missing at sea while on duty will be officially declared 'presumed dead' for the purpose of ex-gratia compensation and terminal benefits — eliminating the need for families to navigate protracted legal or administrative procedures before receiving support.

'This measure ensures that the families of brave personnel are not subjected to prolonged administrative delays during times of mental trauma,' the MoD said. The change is expected to significantly ease and accelerate the disbursement of financial relief to next of kin.

What the Defence Minister Said

Rajnath Singh lauded the ICG for its service over the past five decades and expressed confidence that these reforms will strengthen the force's morale and operational efficacy as it approaches its Golden Jubilee in 2027. He also reaffirmed the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's resolve to build a modern, capable, and future-ready maritime force.

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, ICG Director General Paramesh Sivamani, and other senior officials were present at the event.

What Comes Next

With the ICG's Golden Jubilee approaching in 2027, these reforms signal an intent to reposition the force as a model of institutional inclusivity within India's defence establishment. Implementation timelines for the PA conversion option and promotion eligibility reviews are expected to be detailed in subsequent MoD circulars.