New Delhi, Oct. 7 -- Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth on Wednesday inaugurated the Multinational Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX-2026), underscoring the need for greater international cooperation and a whole-of-government approach to safeguarding lives at sea.

The exercise, scheduled to be conducted off Paradip on October 8, will see participation and observation by 32 delegates from 30 friendly foreign countries.

Addressing the gathering, Seth said the participation of the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force, Coastal Police, ports, civil agencies, shipping community and international and regional partners reflected the need for coordinated efforts to deal with maritime emergencies.

"Modern maritime security is not the respons...