Photo: Indian Coast Guard / Firstpost.com

Indian Coast Guard Director General Rakesh Pal tragically died due to a cardiac arrest in Chennai on Sunday, August 18, 2024. He was 59 years old at the time of his demise.

Pal was in Chennai to attend an official event of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) along with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Prior to the event, he complained of uneasiness and was rushed to the state-run Rajiv Gandhi General Hospital (RGGH).

According to Defence sources, Pal suffered a cardiac arrest and was admitted to the hospital. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, he could not be revived and passed away.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who was also in Chennai to attend a Tamil Nadu government event to release a commemorative coin on the birth centenary of late DMK President M Karunanidhi, rushed to the hospital to pay his respects after hearing the news of Pal’s demise.

In his career spanning more than 34 years, Rakesh Pal had held several key appointments within the Indian Coast Guard. He was appointed as the 25th Director General of the Indian Coast Guard in July 2023 and had a vast experience of commanding various ICG ships and bases.

Throughout his distinguished career, Pal was known for his significant contributions to the growth and development of the Indian Coast Guard. Under his leadership, the force had undertaken several major operations, including the seizure of drugs and narcotic substances worth crores of rupees.

Rakesh Pal’s death has been met with an outpouring of condolences from various dignitaries and officials. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed deep sadness at his untimely demise, praising Pal as an able and committed officer who had led the ICG in making significant strides in strengthening India’s maritime security.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin also visited the hospital to pay his respects to the late Coast Guard Director General.

Arrangements are being made to transport Pal’s mortal remains to Delhi. The exact details of the funeral and other memorial services have not been disclosed as of now.

Career and Achievements

Rakesh Pal joined the Indian Coast Guard in January 1989. During his career, he held several key appointments, including:

• Commander, Coast Guard Region (North West)
• Deputy Director General (Policy & Plans)
• Additional Director General at Coast Guard Headquarters, New Delhi
• Director (Infra and Works)
• Principal Director (Administration) at Coast Guard Headquarters

He was conferred with the Tatrakshak Medal in 2013 and the President Tatrakshak Medal in 2018 for his exemplary service.

Reactions and Tributes

The defence fraternity and government officials have been deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Rakesh Pal. His untimely demise is a significant blow to the Indian Coast Guard and the nation as a whole.

The exact impact of his death on the operations and morale of the Indian Coast Guard will be closely monitored and evaluated in the coming days.

Sources:

• Business Standard – Indian Coast Guard D-G Rakesh Pal dies due to cardiac arrest in Chennai
• The New Indian Express – Director General of Indian Coast Guard Rakesh Pal dies of cardiac arrest in Chennai
• The Hindu – Indian Coast Guard Director-General Rakesh Pal dies in Chennai
• The Times of India – Coast Guard DG Rakesh Pal dies of heart attack in Chennai
• The Indian Express – Indian Coast Guard Director General Rakesh Pal dies

Rakesh Pal’s legacy will be deeply remembered and revered within the Indian Coast Guard and the nation.