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Rajya Sabha
As per the Coast Guard Act 1978, the duties and functions of the Coast Guard are to protect the maritime and other national interests of India within the Maritime zones of India and without prejudice to this role, to provide for the following in the maritime zones of India:
1. Safety and protection of artificial islands, offshore terminals, and other structures and devices.
2. Protection of Indian fishermen.
3. Assistance of fishermen in distress at sea.
4. Preservation and protection of maritime environment.
5. Prevention and control of marine pollution.
6. Assisting the customs and other authorities in anti-smuggling operations.
7. Enforcement of maritime laws in force.
8. Safety of life and property at sea.
9. Collection of scientific data.
10. Other duties as and when prescribed by the Government of India.
No instance of Coast Guard personnel harassing fishermen has come to the notice of the Government. However, the Coast Guard Ships render assistance to fishermen in distress at sea and tow their stranded vessels to their base port.
Regular interaction is also maintained by Coast Guard with the fishing community through institutionalized community interaction programmes wherein they are provided free medical treatment and educated about aspects relating to safety at sea, use of navigation and life saving equipment.
This information was given by the Defence Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee in a written reply to Shri V Hanumantha Rao in Rajya Sabha today.
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