First National Maritime Security Coordinator (NMSC) appointed

After the 26/11 terrorist attack, India has been making continuous efforts to enhance maritime security. In this regard, with a view to strengthen the maritime security of the country, Vice Admiral (Retd) G. Ashok Kumar has been appointed as the country’s first National Maritime Security Coordinator.

This step has been taken with the primary objective of safeguarding the interests of the country to ensure harmony between the various defense stakeholders of the country.

Last year the Security Cabinet Committee had given its approval for the creation of the said post. The appointment of Kumar, who retired in the month of July last year, is being seen as a move by the government to enhance the country’s maritime security in view of the 26/11 terror attack.

Since the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai, the government has authorized a number of security measures to ensure that such attacks do not recur.

The NMSC works closely with the National Security Council, which is headed by Ajit Doval (NSA). NMSC is entrusted with the task of coordinating with Coast Guard, Indian Navy and various other security agencies in 13 Union Territories and Coastal States of the country, which are involved in providing maritime and coastal security.

He served as the 35th Vice Chief of Naval Staff of the country. He assumed this position in the year 2019 and served till July 2021.