National Maritime Security Coordinator

National Maritime Security Coordinator

Part of: GS Prelims and GS -III – Defense and Security

In news Two decades after the Kargil Group of Ministers’ recommendation, the Central government shall create and appoint a National Maritime Security Coordinator (NMSC) with the objective of enhancing security architecture and energy security of India. 

What will be the role of NMSC?

• Interface between the civilian and military maritime domain
• NMSC will work under Indian National Security Advisor.
• It will be the principal advisor to the government on maritime security domain.

What is the significance of NMSC?

• The appointment fills the need of the hour as the Navy, Coast Guard and state maritime boards all tend to work with overlapping jurisdictions.
• It is part of Act East Policy vision that includes SAGAR (Security and Growth of All in the Region), Deep Ocean Mission and the Sagarmala project to make India’s 12 major ports into world class standard.
• Over 70% of Indian trade including vital crude oil is transported through sea and protection of sea shipping lanes is vital to India’s security. Having NMSC will provide better security to our trade.

Who is the National Security Advisor?

• The NSA is the senior official on the National Security Council (NSC) of India.
• S/he is the chief adviser to PM on national and international security policy. 
• He also advises the Prime Minister on all matters relating to internal and external threats and opportunities to India.
• He oversees strategic and sensitive issues on behalf of the Prime Minister.
• He also serves as the Prime Minister’s Special Interlocutor with China as well as the envoy to Pakistan and Israel on security affairs.
• NSA is assisted by the Deputy National Security Advisers.

News Source: Hindustan Times