 Sharda arrived at Maafilaafushi Atoll){kind=link}
MAY 05: Maafilaafushi, Maldives, Reinforcing India’s commitment to regional solidarity and preparedness, Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sharda arrived at Maafilaafushi Atoll in the Maldives to participate in a week-long Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise. Scheduled from May 4 to May 10, 2025, the exercise underscores the deepening maritime and defence cooperation between India and the Maldives.
This deployment is a reflection of India’s overarching “MAHASAGAR” vision—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. It highlights India’s dedication to promoting collective security, stability, and development throughout the Indian Ocean Region.
The HADR exercise aims to build greater synergy and interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). A broad array of coordinated activities will be carried out during this initiative, including disaster response simulations, joint search and rescue operations, provision of medical assistance, and logistical coordination. The agenda also features collaborative training sessions, joint drills, and community engagement efforts that mimic real-world disaster scenarios.
Such exercises not only improve operational readiness but also foster mutual understanding between defence personnel of the two nations. With climate change increasing the frequency and severity of natural disasters, particularly in vulnerable island nations like the Maldives, proactive planning and combined training have become essential.
The Indian Navy’s participation in these efforts reflects its evolving role as a first responder in regional humanitarian crises. Through platforms like HADR exercises, India continues to enhance its capability to deliver timely aid and support to friendly nations in distress.
This latest exercise with the Maldives is one among several bilateral and multilateral efforts being conducted under the MAHASAGAR framework. These collaborative missions underscore India’s status as a reliable maritime partner and humanitarian contributor in South Asia.
Both India and the Maldives remain committed to fostering peace and cooperation in the region through such initiatives, which not only prepare forces for real-time disaster response but also strengthen the strategic bonds between the two nations.