138th OSCC Meeting in Ahmedabad Strengthens Security of Offshore Energy Assets

The 138th Offshore Security Coordination Committee (OSCC) convened in Ahmedabad on 21 May 2026 under the chairmanship of Director General Indian Coast Guard, Paramesh Sivamani . The meeting aimed to review and tighten the security framework for India’s offshore installations and critical energy infrastructure . Key Developments Enhanced Maritime Domain Awareness through upgraded radar and satellite links. Strengthened inter‑agency coordination among the Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, Home Ministry and other stakeholders. Augmentation of surveillance assets to counter unmanned and drone‑enabled threats . Focused discussion on expanding offshore exploration in the Andaman & Nicobar region . Agreement to develop joint response protocols for emergencies on offshore platforms. Important Facts The meeting was attended by senior officials from the ICG , Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Director General Hydrographer, DG Shipping, Intelligence Bureau, Oil & Natural Gas Commission and state police forces. The participants reviewed the evolving global and regional security environment, modern warfare dynamics and the growing number of offshore installations. UPSC Relevance Understanding the role of the OSCC helps aspirants grasp India’s maritime security architecture (GS2). The emphasis on MDA and surveillance upgrades links to the country’s economic interests and trade routes (GS3). The focus on drone threats reflects emerging technology challenges, a topic in GS3 and GS4. The strategic importance of the Andaman & Nicobar islands ties into geopolitics and maritime security (GS1, GS2). Way Forward Stakeholders agreed to: Deploy additional coastal radar stations and satellite monitoring for real‑time MDA . Form joint rapid‑response teams comprising the ICG , Navy and Air Force. Conduct regular drills against drone‑enabled threats on offshore platforms. Strengthen legal and policy frameworks for protecting critical energy infrastructure in the Andaman & Nicobar area. These steps aim to create a resilient security net for India’s offshore assets, ensuring energy security and safeguarding maritime trade routes.