The 31st founding anniversary of Bangladesh Coast Guard was celebrated with due dignity at its headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka on Tuesday with senior government officials, military leaders, diplomats and civil and defence dignitaries in attendance.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed attended the programme as chief guest, while Senior Secretary of the Public Security Division, Ministry of Home Affairs, Manjur Morshed Chowdhury, was present as special guest. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Nazmul Hasan and other senior officials also attended the event.
At the ceremony, the home minister awarded a total of 14 medals in recognition of bravery and distinguished service of Coast Guard personnel. The awards included four Bangladesh Coast Guard Medals, four Bangladesh Coast Guard (Service) Medals, three President Coast Guard Medals, and three President Coast Guard (Service) Medals, said a press release.
Speaking as chief guest, the home minister said the government is taking steps to transform the Coast Guard into a modern, technology-driven force. He said three surveillance drones have already been inducted, while procurement of new vessels is underway. He also announced plans to increase manpower to 10,000 and enhance operational capability through maritime helicopters, advanced drones and additional vessels.
He added that construction of multirole response vessels and offshore patrol vessels is progressing through international cooperation, while high-speed bulletproof boats are being introduced to strengthen coastal crime prevention.
Formed following a legal framework in 1994 and formally launched on December 19, 1995, the Bangladesh Coast Guard has since played a key role in maritime security, anti-smuggling operations, fisheries protection, disaster response, and safeguarding coastal and riverine areas.