Japanese Vessel Docks in India for Bilateral Engagement
India and Japan Expand Coast Guard Partnership with Chennai Visit: The Japan Coast Guard Ship (JCGS) Itsukushima reached Chennai Port on July 7, 2025, as part of a planned six-day training mission. The ship’s arrival is part of Japan’s broader global training deployment, meant to enhance security and coordination with partner nations. This marks a key milestone in the expanding maritime cooperation between India and Japan, especially in the strategic Indo-Pacific region.
Focus on a Free and Open Indo-Pacific
India and Japan are aligning their efforts to ensure maritime safety and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific. This visit builds on frameworks such as India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and its SAGAR vision, which advocates for collaborative maritime development and security.
The presence of the Japanese ship in Indian waters reflects a shared commitment to preserving a rules-based order at sea, boosting both nations’ capacities in areas like search and rescue, disaster response, and joint maritime operations.
Static GK fact: SAGAR stands for Security and Growth for All in the Region and was launched by PM Modi in 2015 to strengthen regional maritime cooperation.
Cultural Reception and Leadership Dialogues
Upon arrival, the Japanese contingent led by Captain Naoki Mizoguchi received a ceremonial welcome, celebrating the warmth and friendship between the two nations. Over the course of the visit, the crew is scheduled to take part in several collaborative activities, such as:
- Mutual ship visits
- Technical training sessions
- Officer interactions and discussions
- Courtesy calls to senior officials
In addition to operational exchanges, high-level discussions took place between Vice Admiral Hiroaki Kaosue of Japan and Indian Coast Guard leadership, including Director General Paramesh Sivamani and Additional DG Donny Michael, reinforcing institutional ties.
Sea Drill Named ‘Jaa Mata’ to Enhance Operational Sync
Following the port engagements, both Coast Guards will participate in a joint maritime exercise named ‘Jaa Mata’, a Japanese phrase meaning “see you later.” This drill aims to sharpen bilateral coordination during real-time operational scenarios, improve mutual understanding, and test interoperability during maritime missions.
Static GK fact: Japan, along with India, the US, and Australia, forms the Quad, a strategic forum committed to ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Indian Officers Join Japanese Crew for Voyage
In a symbolic gesture of trust and collaboration, four officers from the Indian Coast Guard will travel aboard JCGS Itsukushima to Singapore under the Sea Riders programme. This initiative allows Indian officers to observe and engage in Japanese maritime operations firsthand, building stronger people-to-people ties within the forces.
Static GK Tip: The Indian Coast Guard, established in 1977, operates under the Ministry of Defence and plays a critical role in India’s maritime law enforcement and coastal security operations.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
| Topic | Detail |
| JCGS Itsukushima | Japanese Coast Guard ship visiting Chennai Port |
| Visit Duration | Six days, starting July 7, 2025 |
| Key Initiative | Japan’s Global Ocean Voyage Training |
| Indian Initiative | SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) |
| Sea Exercise Name | ‘Jaa Mata’ |
| Exchange Program | Sea Riders program with 4 ICG officers |
| Top Meeting Officials | Vice Admiral Hiroaki Kaosue, DG Paramesh Sivamani |
| Coast Guard Partnership | Focus on Indo-Pacific security cooperation |
| Port of Departure | Chennai Port |
| Destination After India | Singapore |
