India to modernize Coast Guard          
[Wednesday, May 23, 2007 - 6.15 GMT] 

Indian Defence Minister A K Antony speaking at the Silver Jubilee function of the Indian Coast Guard called for faster modernization of the Coast Guard in view of the terrorist threat that “is more likely than ever to come from the sea”. He revealed that 73 coastal state police stations would be set up soon to enhance vigil along the coastline. He also said that the government is aware of the need for acquiring new aircraft and  surveillance equipment for the Coast Guard for it to perform its multifarious role effectively.
  
Tamil Nadu Director-General of Police D. Mukherjee told the press a few weeks ago that five Indian fishermen were killed by the LTTE in Indian territorial waters on March 29. According to Mukherjee this was revealed by the Sea Tiger suspects in Indian custody when they were interrogated by the Police. It has also become clear now that the LTTE had kidnapped 12 Indian fishermen and taken their vessel which was later sunk off Maldives when carrying weapons.
  
This increased terrorist activity in the Palk Strait region has forced India to increase its patrols there.  It is also is deploying more vessels along its eastern coastline.

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Last Updated Date: May 23, 2007 -6.15 GMT