HADR Exercise:
INS Sharda, an offshore patrol vessel of the Indian Navy, has arrived at Maafilaafushi Atoll, Maldives, to participate in its first-ever Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, scheduled from May 4 to May 10, 2025.
- This initiative is part of India’s broader strategic vision to foster regional maritime cooperation and ensure disaster preparedness in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- The deployment underscores India’s commitment to its “Neighbourhood First” Policy, wherein the Maldives holds a special strategic and cultural significance as a close maritime neighbour.
- The exercise aligns with the recently launched “MAHASAGAR” vision – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions – announced by the Prime Minister in Mauritius.
- This vision reaffirms India’s role as a net security provider and first responder in the Indian Ocean.
- The MAHASAGAR vision is an extension of India’s earlier SAGAR doctrine (Security and Growth for All in the Region), emphasising inclusive security, regional collaboration, and disaster resilience.
- According to the Indian Navy, the key objectives of this HADR exercise include:
- Enhancing interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
- Conducting joint drills for Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, disaster response coordination, logistical support and medical assistance.
- Facilitating training sessions for capacity building.
- Engaging with local communities for awareness and disaster resilience preparedness.
