Director General Rakesh Pal, the 25th Director General of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), passed away in Chennai today after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 58.
Singh later expressed his condolences on X, 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."
Indian Navy also expressed grief at the passing away of Coast Guard DG Rajesh Pal.
"Adm Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Navy Staff, and all personnel of the Indian Navy express profound grief and heartfelt condolences on the untimely demise of Director General Rakesh Pal. Indian Navy stands in grief with the bereaved family," Indian Navy Spokesperson stated.
Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence expressed its condolences and stated, "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult hour."
Pal experienced uneasiness and was immediately taken to Rajeev Gandhi Government Hospital, where he received treatment. Despite efforts, he could not be saved. His mortal remains will be transported to Delhi for final rites.
ALSO READ | Delhi AIIMS Doctor Ends His Life With Drug Overdose, ‘Dispute With Wife’ Suspected As Reason: Police
Rakesh Pal's Illustrious Career Spans Over 34 Years
Rakesh Pal, an alumnus of the Indian Naval Academy, joined the Indian Coast Guard in January 1989. Over his distinguished career spanning more than 34 years, Pal held several significant positions both afloat and ashore. These included commanding various ICG ships such as ICGS Samarth, ICGS Vijit, ICGS Sucheta Kriplani, ICGS Ahalyabai, and ICGS C-03. He also commanded two forward area Coast Guard bases in Gujarat, namely Okha and Vadinar.
Pal was known for his expertise in gunnery and weapons systems, having completed specialised training at the Indian Naval School Dronacharya, Kochi, and an Electro-Optics Fire Control Solution course in the United Kingdom. Notably, he was recognised as the First Gunner of the Indian Coast Guard, according to the Indian Coast Guard.
In February 2022, Pal was promoted to the rank of Additional Director General and was later appointed as Director General Coast Guard in July 2023. During his tenure, the ICG conducted numerous successful operations, including drug seizures, anti-poaching operations, and rescue missions during cyclonic storms.
For his outstanding service, Pal was honoured with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), President Tatrakshak Medal (PTM), and Tatrakshak Medal (TM).
Rakesh Pal hailed from Uttar Pradesh. He was a passionate music lover and an avid sports enthusiast. He is survived by his wife, Dipa Pal, and their two daughters, Snehal and Tarushi.