New Delhi:

In a recent incident where Shri was used before the names of Indian Coast Guard officers instead of military ranks, the Presidential Secretariat explained in an RTI reply that only military ranks can be used before the names of Indian Coast Guard and Defense officials on official occasions. communicate.

The etiquette department of the Presidential Secretariat issued a letter in May 2023 stating that whether they are serving or retired officials, they only need to be preceded by military rank and “Shri” is not allowed.

According to the RTI reply accessed by ANI, in the RTI application filed by an individual, the Presidential Secretariat confirmed that the order in this regard also applies to Indian Coast Guard officials.

Defense Ministry officials said this was a step towards maintaining the agreement on the use of titles for Indian Coast Guard officers.

They said, “In recent developments, numerous instances have arisen where it has been noticed that Indian Coast Guard (ICG) officials are using titles incorrectly in various communications. This discrepancy is against the established traditions of the service and the government has been informed instruction.”

Using the correct grades in official communications is not just a matter of form; it is also an integral part of our service tradition.

This approach plays a key role in maintaining mutual respect between the Services, fostering a professional environment and maintaining the dignity of the Armed Forces.

Defense officials expect that all services will immediately correct the discrepancy to ensure that the correct rank of ICG officers is properly recognized in all official communications.

The President of India is the supreme commander of the country’s defense forces.

The Indian Army, Navy, Air Force and Indian Coast Guard are the four forces under the Ministry of Defense and are governed by different acts.

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