Retired Vice Chief of Navy Vice Admiral G Ashok Kumar has been appointed as the first National Maritime Security Coordinator (NMSC), a position created following the 26/11 terror attacks. The NMSC will operate within the National Security Council Secretariat and report to National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.
In his new role, Kumar will be responsible for coordinating between various agencies involved in maritime security and civil issues. He will also work to enhance the country’s blue economy. Additionally, he will serve as the central point for all maritime security matters and work to improve coordination between different authorities.
The NMSC’s stakeholders include the ministries of Defence, Home Affairs, External Affairs, and Shipping at the Centre, as well as various state agencies, customs, police, intelligence agencies, and port authorities. The creation of the NMSC was recommended by a Group of Ministers after the 26/11 attacks, and was finally approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security in November 2021.
In addition to the NMSC, the Navy has proposed the establishment of a National Maritime Domain Awareness Center to strengthen integration for maritime security. Kumar, who retired in July 2021, brings nearly four decades of experience in the Navy to his new role.
India’s 7,516.6 km coastline, which includes the mainland, Lakshadweep Islands, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, underscores the importance of effective maritime security coordination.
