Indian Coast Guard Director General Rakesh Pal Passes Away Due to Cardiac Arrest in Chennai

Rakesh Pal, the Director General of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), tragically passed away in Chennai following a cardiac arrest. He was rushed to Rajiv Gandhi Government Hospital but could not be revived, according to officials. His sudden demise has sent shockwaves across the defense community, where he was highly regarded for his leadership and service.

Pal was in Chennai to attend an ICG event alongside Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. After experiencing chest pain, he was admitted to the Rajiv Gandhi Government Hospital. In response to the news, Defence Minister Singh expressed his grief on social media, stating, “Deeply saddened at the untimely demise of Shri Rakesh Pal, DG, Indian Coast Guard in Chennai today. He was an able and committed officer under whose leadership ICG was making big strides in strengthening India’s maritime security. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family.” Singh also visited the hospital to pay his respects.

General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, along with all ranks of the Indian Army, extended their deepest condolences. In a statement, they said, “General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS, and all ranks of the Indian Army express their deepest condolences on the untimely demise of Rakesh Pal, Director General, Indian Coast Guard, in Chennai today. The Indian Army offers prayers for the departed soul and stands firm with the bereaved family in this hour of grief.”

Rakesh Pal’s illustrious career spanned over 34 years, during which he held several key positions both at sea and onshore. His notable appointments included Commander Coast Guard Region (North West), Deputy Director General (Policy and Plans), and Additional Director General at Coast Guard Headquarters in New Delhi. He was recognized for his expertise in maritime security and played a pivotal role in various staff assignments, including Director (Infra and Works) and Principal Director (Administration) at Coast Guard Headquarters.

Pal was highly respected for his extensive sea experience, having commanded all classes of Indian Coast Guard ships, including Samarth, Vijit, Sucheta Kriplani, Ahalyabai, and C-03. He also led two forward area Coast Guard bases in Gujarat, Okha, and Vadinar. Elevated to the rank of Additional Director General in February 2022, Pal’s distinguished service was recognized with the Tatrakshak Medal in 2013 and the President Tatrakshak Medal in 2018. His untimely passing is a significant loss to India’s maritime defense community.