INS Sharda Takes Part in Inaugural India-Maldives HADR Exercise Held in Maldives.
International
In May 2025, Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sharda arrived at Maafilaafushi Atoll in the Maldives to participate in the inaugural Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise, scheduled from May 4–10, 2025.
- This joint exercise signifies the growing defence and maritime cooperation between India and the Maldives and aligns with India's regional maritime vision, MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
- The primary aim of the inaugural Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise is to enhance interoperability between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). The joint drill focuses on coordinated efforts in responding to humanitarian crises and natural disasters.
- The exercise will cover multiple operational areas including Disaster Response Coordination, Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, Medical Assistance, and Logistical Support. It also involves Joint Drills and Training Sessions along with Community Engagement activities during simulated disaster scenarios.
Main Point :- (i) The MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) initiative was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2025 during his visit to Mauritius. It builds on the earlier SAGAR doctrine (2015) and broadens its scope to include enhanced regional cooperation, especially among Global South nations.
(ii) India is the primary training partner of MNDF, having trained over 1,500 Maldivian personnel in the last ten years. Since 2019, India has supported the Maldives in conducting over 630 MEDEVACs, SAR operations, and air surveillance missions, showcasing strong bilateral cooperation.
(iii) India continues to strengthen MNDF capabilities through infrastructure support. Key contributions include the development of the Composite Training Centre, the installation of a Coastal Radar System, and the construction of the "Ekatha" Harbour, which was inaugurated in 2023.
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