The Coast Guard Air Station in Chennai wore a festive look. The occasion was an investiture ceremony. Defence Minister, Mr George Fernandes gave away the President's Tatrakshak Medal and Tatrakshak Medals to gallant personnel of the Coast Guard.

The prestigious President’s Tatrakshak Medal for individual acts of exceptional devotion to duty or courage having a special significance for Coast Guard was awarded to Deputy Director General, Coast Guard, Inspector General Prabhakaran Paleri.

Since the institution of medals in 1989, 14 President's Tatrakshak Medals and 68 Tatrakshak Medals have been awarded to Coast Guard personnel. "Such regular recognition of ingenuity, bravery and quality of leadership should indeed serve as an inspiration for many others to achieve more laurels", said Defence Minister while congratulating the medal winners.

On the achievements of the Coast Guard, Mr Fernandes said that it had emerged as a strong maritime force and had boosted the image of the nation. Commending the Coast Guard's role in protection and preservation of the marine environment, he said that its anti-pollution operations have resulted in averting ecological damage. He recalled the recent incidents off Mumbai Harbour and in Bay of Bengal in which Coast Guard personnel not only saved crew of two sinking ships but also averted a major environmental disaster to be caused by oil spillage.

The role of Coast Guard has been increasing with every passing year. Countries like Japan, USA and France have come forward to join hands with the Indian Coast Guard. As a part of the international co-operation measures, Coast Guard ships have made visits to Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Mr Fernandes said that the government is committed to the augmentation of the force level of Coast Guard to make it a more visible and effective maritime force. Mr Fernandes also interacted with the Coast Guard personnel before proceeding to Coast Guard Station, Mandapam. Vice Admiral Sureesh Mehta, Director General, Coast Guard and Cmde RS Vasan, Commander, Coast Guard Region (East) were present on the occasion.