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REPATRIATION – MUTUAL EXCHANGE OF FISHERMEN BETWEEN INDIAN AND BANGLADESHI
On Dec 9 2024 in a significant operation aimed at safeguarding maritime security, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) apprehended two Bangladeshi fishing trawlers “FV Laila-2” and “FV Meghna-5” along with 78 fishermen engaged in fishing within Indian waters.
The Government of India accorded approval for repatriation of 78 crew members along with two (02) Bangladeshi fishing boats and additional 12 crew of sunken Bangladesh fishing boat ‘Kausik’ in mutual exchange of 95 Indian Fishermen along with six (06) Indian fishing boats.
Accordingly, The Indian Coast Guard Ship Varad and ICGS Amrit Kaur were nominated to escort the 90 Bangladeshi fishermen to International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) for mutual exchange with 95 Indian Fishermen on 05 Jan 25. Further, the Indian fishermen were handed over to District Magistrate, 24 South Paragnas near Sagar Island on 06 Jan 25 at 1130 hours.
The operation underscores the mutual efforts of MEA, Govt. of India, Govt. of West Bengal and Indian Coast Guard in maintaining Maritime relations between India and Bangladesh.
Indian Coast Guard assures Safety, sharp vigilance and swift response to prevent unauthorized incursions/ illegal activities at sea, thereby reaffirming its commitment to preserve the integrity of India’s Maritime Boundaries and ensure the safety of its waters. The Indian Coast Guard continues to play a pivotal role in upholding National interest in dynamic Maritime Domain.
