3-day coastal security exercise draws to a close

The three-day comprehensive coastal security exercise 'Theera Veta', involving multiple security agencies, conducted along the entire coast of Kerala, Lakshadweep and Minicoy islands and Mahe, concluded today, the Navy said.
During the exercise, Attack and Security groups were formed with the Attack group simulating attacks on important locations called as vital areas or points (VA/VP) while the Coastal Security Group thwarted the attacks.
All fishing harbours, fish landing centres and other entry/exit points were monitored for the purpose.
High security was maintained at all minor ports using boat patrols and linked with respective Coastal Security Operation Centre, the Navy said in a release.

State and U/T administration, Police and IRBN, Fisheries Department, Intelligence Bureau, Customs, Cochin Port Trust, Director General Light House and Light Ships, Department of Port, Shipping and Aviation at Lakshadweep Islands and fishermen association as well as fishing communities besides Navy and Coast Guard took part in the exercise, it said.
The entire exercise was coordinated by the Coast Guard and monitoredat the JOC (Joint Operation Centre), located at the naval base here.

'Theera Veta' is a bi-annual exercise aimed at assessing the effectiveness of the coastal fishing community in serving as 'eyes and ears' for early warning of any threats from sea.

It also evaluates interoperability and coordination between integrated maritime security agencies in intelligence gathering, surveillance and provides anti-terrorism defence and counter insurgency.
This exercise was earlier conducted from November 17 to 19, last year.