CISF’s ‘Safe Coast, Prosperous India’ Initiative Underscores Coastal Security Imperative in Kundapur
Kundapur: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) brought its nationwide “Safe Coast, Prosperous India” initiative to Kundapur on Wednesday, underscoring the critical link between coastal security and national economic prosperity. A dedicated cycling rally, traversing the nation’s coastal regions, arrived at the Mogaveera Sabha Bhavan, marking a significant stop in its journey to raise awareness among citizens.
The initiative, which commenced in Gujarat, aims to educate the public on the vital role coastal security plays in safeguarding India’s interests. Addressing a gathering of students, local dignitaries, and community leaders, CISF Deputy Commandant Vibhu Singh Prithar emphasized the enduring relevance of coastal vigilance in the face of contemporary threats.
“The tragic Mumbai attacks, perpetrated by terrorists who infiltrated our borders via the sea route, serve as a stark reminder of the ever-present dangers,” stated Deputy Commandant Prithar. “It is incumbent upon us, as responsible citizens, to proactively raise awareness regarding potential threats emanating from our extensive coastline.”
Deputy Commandant Prithar elucidated the intrinsic connection between a secure coastline and the nation’s economic well-being. He highlighted the crucial role sea routes play in facilitating international trade. “Approximately 95% of India’s trade is conducted via sea routes,” he explained. “Therefore, guaranteeing the security of our coastlines will, without question, further accelerate the country’s overall economic prosperity.”
Beyond security concerns, Deputy Commandant Prithar also addressed the pressing social issue of substance abuse, particularly amongst the youth. He urged students to report any suspicious or illegal activities, not only along the coastline but also in their local communities, to their parents or the appropriate law enforcement agencies. He sternly cautioned against the dangers of drug use, framing it as a destructive force with far-reaching consequences for the nation’s future.
“Youth should resolutely resist falling prey to the insidious trap of substance abuse, irrespective of the perceived allure,” he stated emphatically. “Substance abuse is a debilitating plague that erodes the very foundation of our nation’s future. Only if you, the future custodians of our country, strive for excellence and achieve greatness while steadfastly rejecting addiction, will India truly emerge as a prosperous nation.”
The cycling rally, having already journeyed through Gujarat, Diu Daman, Maharashtra, and Goa, is scheduled to conclude its leg of the journey in Kanyakumari by March 31, passing through Kerala en route. Concurrently, a second team is traversing the eastern coastline, covering West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry, before converging with the western team in Kanyakumari.
Acknowledging the CISF’s efforts, MLA A. Kiran Kumar Kodgi lauded the dedication and commitment of the security personnel in raising public awareness regarding coastal security. He reiterated the importance of national unity and security, emphasizing the crucial role played by the CISF in safeguarding the nation’s interests.
“The CISF soldiers have demonstrated unwavering dedication in their tireless efforts to raise awareness about coastal security and its paramount importance in ensuring national unity and security,” stated MLA Kodgi. “Their efforts are truly commendable, and we deeply appreciate their commitment to this vital cause.”
The event witnessed the participation of several prominent dignitaries, including Assistant Commandants Ramamurthy Kaundal and Sai Nayak, Assistant Commissioner of Kundapur Sub-Division Maheshchandra, DYSP H.D. Kulkarni, Tahsildar Pradeep Kurdekar, Municipal Council President Mohandas Shenoy, City Authority President Vinod Krshta, Municipal Commissioner Anand J., and Uday Kumar Hattiangadi representing the Mogaveera Youth Organization.
Upon their arrival at Sangam Junction, the CISF soldiers received a warm welcome, marked by a grand procession led by NCC students from Bhandarkars and B.B. Hegde College, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums and spirited patriotic slogans. Rajesh Kaveri of the Armed Forces Support Team formally welcomed the delegation, while NCC student Kumari Sindhu served as the host for the event.
The “Safe Coast, Prosperous India” initiative serves as a crucial component of the CISF’s broader strategy to educate and inform the public about the multifaceted importance of coastal security and its inextricable link to national unity and security. The campaign aims to raise awareness regarding potential vulnerabilities along the coastline and to emphasize the imperative of a robust and vigilant coastal security apparatus. The initiative hopes to empower citizens to be active participants in safeguarding the nation’s coastline and contributing to a more secure and prosperous India.