Bhubaneswar, June 4: The Odisha Coastal Security Wing of the State Police today organised the State-Level Coastal Security Seminar–2026 at Police Bhawan, Bhubaneswar, to review existing arrangements and deliberate on future strategies for strengthening coastal defence mechanisms.
The seminar was inaugurated by Director General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, who highlighted that coastal security is a critical pillar of internal security, directly linked to economic stability, maritime trade, and public safety.
Emphasising Odisha’s strategic maritime importance, the DGP noted the state’s 574.7 km coastline and the presence of key ports such as Paradip, Dhamra, and Gopalpur. He stated that coastal security has been prioritised by the state government in view of evolving security challenges.
He informed that Odisha Police has significantly strengthened its coastal surveillance framework in recent years, including deployment of over 700 personnel across 18 marine police stations, enhanced patrolling through fast interceptor boats, drones, and trawlers, and establishment of a Command, Control and Training Centre in Bhubaneswar. The ‘NABHAMITRA’ app is also being effectively used to track fishing vessels, along with integration of experienced personnel from the Navy and Coast Guard.
Looking ahead, the DGP announced plans to further enhance capabilities through procurement of additional interceptor boats and trawlers, establishment of mini control rooms, CCTV surveillance at fish landing centres, construction of modular jetties, and deployment of advanced anti-drone systems.
Experts and senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Intelligence Bureau, Indian Coast Guard, CISF, and Kerala Police participated in the seminar and shared insights on emerging maritime threats, technology integration, and community participation in coastal security.
Officials said the recommendations emerging from the seminar will help further strengthen Odisha’s coastal security architecture through improved coordination, modern technology adoption, and enhanced community engagement.
