On 19 July 2023, who was appointed as the 25th Director General of the Indian Coast Guard?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Rakesh Pal

• On 19 July 2023, the Ministry of Defence announced the appointment of Rakesh Pal as the 25th Director General of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) .

• He succeeded Virendra Singh Pathania, who retired on 31 January 2023.

• Prior to this appointment, Rakesh Pal held the position of Additional Director General and was given the additional charge of Director General in February 2023 .

• An alumnus of the Indian Naval Academy, he joined the ICG in January 1989 and specialized in Gunnery & Weapons Systems at the Indian Naval School Dronacharya, Kochi .

• Throughout his distinguished career, he commanded various ICG ships and held key positions, including Commander of Coast Guard Region (North West) in Gandhinagar and Deputy Director General (Policy & Plans) .

• Rakesh Pal was conferred with the Tatrakshak Medal in 2013 and the President Tatrakshak Medal in 2018 for his exemplary service .

Information Booster:

• Indian Coast Guard (ICG):

  • Established in 1978 under the Ministry of Defence.

  • Responsible for maritime law enforcement, search and rescue operations, and environmental protection.

  • Operates under the overall guidance of the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Home Affairs.

• Director General of ICG:

  • The highest-ranking officer in the ICG.

  • Equivalent to a three-star rank in the Indian Armed Forces.

  • Appointed by the President of India on the recommendation of the Ministry of Defence.

• Recent Leadership Transitions:

  • Rakesh Pal served as the Director General until his untimely demise on 18 August 2024 due to a heart attack .

  • He was succeeded by Paramesh Sivamani, who became the 26th Director General of the ICG on 15 October 2024 .