Home Minister Announces Major Expansion and Modernization of Coast Guard

He announced that the current government is committed to increasing the manpower and modernizing the force to meet emerging security challenges. Speaking as the chief guest at an event marking the 31st anniversary of the Coast Guard in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, the Minister revealed plans to recruit 10,000 new personnel to further strengthen the organization.

During the ceremony, the Home Minister noted that the Coast Guard was established under the leadership of Begum Khaleda Zia during a previous BNP-led government. He emphasized that the force is currently performing commendable work in the national interest by preventing drug smuggling, protecting fisheries, eradicating piracy, and ensuring environmental conservation. The Minister specifically highlighted the Coast Guard's rescue operations during natural disasters in coastal areas, which have built deep public trust and proved indispensable for maintaining stability in the Sundarbans and other littoral zones.

Rear Admiral Ziaul Huq, Director General of the Coast Guard, also addressed the event, stating that the force is working tirelessly to curb piracy and smuggling on river routes. He reported that drugs and illegal goods worth hundreds of crores of Taka were seized over the past year. However, he pointed out the existing manpower shortage within the force, noting that resolving this crisis would allow for a more effective role in securing waterways and protecting the nation's marine resources. In response, the Home Minister assured that prompt steps would be taken to address these personnel requirements and enhance the force's operational capacity.