Rakesh Pal, the esteemed Director-General of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), passed away in Chennai on Sunday at the age of 59. His sudden cardiac arrest occurred while he was in the city for an official function, which was also set to be attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
Career and Achievements:
- Director-General of ICG: Rakesh Pal became the 25th Director-General of the Indian Coast Guard in July 2023, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to the role.
- Distinguished Service: With a career spanning about 35 years, Pal held pivotal positions such as Commander Coast Guard Region (North West) in Gandhinagar, Deputy Director General (Policy and Planning), and Additional Director General at Coast Guard Headquarters in New Delhi.
- Training and Expertise: An alumnus of the Indian Naval Academy, Pal began his service with the Indian Coast Guard in January 1989. His training included gunnery and weapons instruction at the Indian Naval School Dronacharya in Kochi and a specialized course in electro-optics fire control solutions in the United Kingdom. He was recognized as the first gunner of the Indian Coast Guard.
- Command Roles: Throughout his career, Pal commanded several ICG ships, including ICGS Samarth, ICGS Vijay, ICGS Sucheta Kriplani, ICGS Ahilyabai, and ICGS C-03. He also held command at two coast guard bases in Gujarat, Okha and Vadinar.
- Awards and Recognitions: His exemplary service was acknowledged with the Tatrakshak Medal in 2013 and the President’s Tatrakshak Medal in 2018. Under his leadership, significant operations included the seizure of drugs and gold worth crores of rupees and a notable rescue operation during a severe cyclone. Joint operations with foreign coast guards were also conducted during his tenure.
Personal Life: Rakesh Pal was not only dedicated to his professional career but also had a passion for music and sports. He is survived by his wife, Deepa Pal, and their two daughters, Snehal and Tarushi.
Rakesh Pal’s contributions to the Indian Coast Guard and his leadership will be remembered with great respect and admiration. His sudden passing is a significant loss to the maritime community and the nation.
