The Sri Lankan navy arrested 9 Indian fishermen for alleged maritime boundary violation

Ramanathapuram: According to a state Fisheries department official, the Sri Lankan Navy detained nine Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu on Tuesday for allegedly crossing its maritime border.

Additionally, two mechanized boats were seized.

The fishermen were caught late last night between Katchatheevu and Neduntheevu after setting sail for fishing on Monday morning, the official stated. The fishermen are from Mandapam in the district.

Sri Lankan Navy:

Some key functions and responsibilities of the Sri Lanka Navy include:

1. Maritime Security: Ensuring the safety and security of Sri Lanka’s territorial waters, ports, and coastal areas, and protecting the country from any maritime threats, including piracy and smuggling.
2. Maritime Surveillance: Conducting surveillance and reconnaissance activities to monitor and track suspicious activities in the maritime domain.
3. Search and Rescue: Undertaking search and rescue missions to save lives and provide assistance to vessels and people in distress at sea.
4. Disaster Relief: Assisting in disaster relief operations, particularly during natural disasters and emergencies that affect coastal communities.
5. Anti-Terrorism Operations: Collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to combat terrorism and prevent any unlawful activities in Sri Lanka’s maritime areas.
6. Maritime Diplomacy: Participating in international maritime exercises, conferences, and engagements to enhance bilateral and multilateral cooperation with other navies and maritime organizations.

Indian Navy:

Key functions and responsibilities of the Indian Navy include:

1. Maritime Security: Ensuring the safety and security of India’s vast coastline, territorial waters, and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) to counter any potential threats.
2. Naval Operations: Conducting various naval operations, including patrolling, surveillance, and reconnaissance to monitor maritime activities and maintain situational awareness.
3. Power Projection: Demonstrating India’s naval capabilities and presence in the Indian Ocean region through port visits, naval exercises, and joint patrols with friendly nations.
4. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief: Providing assistance in times of natural disasters and humanitarian crises, both within India and in neighboring countries.
5. Anti-Piracy Operations: Participating in international efforts to combat piracy in the Gulf of Aden and other piracy-prone regions.
6. Naval Diplomacy: Engaging in naval exercises, training, and exchanges with other countries to strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations and foster maritime cooperation.
7. Nuclear Deterrence: As part of India’s nuclear triad, the Indian Navy contributes to the country’s nuclear deterrence capability by maintaining a fleet of nuclear-powered and nuclear-armed submarines.