The Indian Navy has called on fishing workers at Kochi Fishing Harbour to support coastal security by reporting suspicious activity and following established safety procedures. The awareness programme was organised as part of Sea Vigil, a defence initiative focused on maritime security.
The programme was held at the fishing harbour in Thoppumpady, where naval officers explained the role of the fishing community in protecting the country’s maritime interests. Officers said fishermen operate close to the coast and can help security agencies identify unusual movements or activities in coastal waters.
The Navy described the fishing community as the “eyes and ears” of security agencies and said collective vigilance could help build a stronger culture of responsibility along the coast. The programme also highlighted that coastal security cannot be managed only by maritime security agencies and requires cooperation from coastal communities.
Officials advised fishing workers to immediately inform the authorities if they noticed suspicious activities or unusual movement in coastal waters. They also said fishermen, boat owners and others connected with the maritime sector had a role to play in strengthening security arrangements.
The guidance covered both vigilance and compliance with existing security procedures. Naval officers asked participants to remain alert while ensuring that the prescribed safety and security measures were followed accurately during their activities at sea and around the harbour.
The programme included direct interaction between naval officers and fishermen at Kochi Fishing Harbour. Security equipment was also distributed to the workers during the event, according to the report.
The awareness drive was led by Commodore Varghese Mathew, Naval Officer-in-Charge. The Navy’s engagement with fishermen places the coastal community within the wider security framework around Kochi’s working harbour, where fishing workers and boat owners are regularly connected with coastal waters and maritime activity.
The programme’s immediate focus was to improve awareness, encourage prompt reporting of abnormal activity and reinforce cooperation between the fishing community and security agencies. No further operational measures or implementation timeline were announced in the report.
