NEW DELHI: Coast Guard Director General (DG) Rakesh Pal, who played a key role in boosting his force’s operational prowess, died at a hospital in Chennai on Sunday following a cardiac arrest, an official said. He was 59.
Pal had taken charge as the 25th Coast Guard chief on July 19 last year. The officer, who was to attend an event along with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, was admitted to Rajiv Gandhi General Hospital (RGGH) after he complained of chest pain.
“Deeply saddened at the untimely demise of Shri Rakesh Pal, DG, Indian Coast Guard in Chennai today,” Rajnath wrote on X.
“He was an able and committed officer under whose leadership the CG was making big strides in strengthening India’s maritime security. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family,” he said. Rajnath also visited the hospital where he paid respects to Pal.
The officer, who was an ardent music lover and an avid sports enthusiast, hailed from Uttar Pradesh. He is survived by his wife Dipa Pal and two daughters.