Bhubaneswar, June 24: Odisha has hosted the Multi-Agency Maritime Security Group (MAMSG) meeting for the first time, bringing together senior officials from central and state agencies to discuss key issues related to coastal and maritime security.

The meeting was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The event was attended by the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and the National Maritime Security Coordinator, along with State Maritime Security Coordinators from coastal states and Union Territories.

Senior representatives from several central agencies, including the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, and Border Security Force, participated in the deliberations. Officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Defence, and Ministry of Fisheries were also present.

The meeting focused on a range of critical coastal security issues, including the implementation of maritime laws, strengthening coastal surveillance networks, developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for handling hazardous and harmful substances, enhancing anti-smuggling measures, and improving port security.

The discussions are aimed at improving coordination among various agencies and strengthening India's maritime and coastal security framework in the face of emerging challenges.