INS Sharda Arrives at Maafilaafushi, Maldives for HADR Exercise

IN NEWS – INS Sharda Arrives at Maafilaafushi, Maldives for HADR Exercise

The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sharda arrived at Maafilaafushi Atoll, Maldives, to participate in a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise scheduled from 04 to 10 May 2025.
This initiative reflects India’s continued commitment to regional cooperation and its proactive role in maritime security and disaster management in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

To enhance interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
To build joint operational capability for disaster response and relief during natural calamities.
To reinforce bilateral trust and expand the scope of defence cooperation between India and the Maldives.

The HADR exercise focuses on multiple areas of cooperation including:
- Disaster response coordination and rapid deployment drills.
- Search and rescue (SAR) operations in maritime disaster scenarios.
- Medical assistance and logistical support to affected regions.
- Joint drills and training sessions to share best practices.
- Community engagement programmes to strengthen local resilience.
The deployment also includes simulation-based emergency response exercises, enhancing preparedness for real-life humanitarian contingencies.

Strengthens India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine.
Aligns with India’s broader maritime vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
Demonstrates India’s capability and readiness to act as a first responder in regional crises and natural disasters.
Deepens defence and maritime cooperation with the Maldives, a key maritime partner in the IOR.

INS Sharda: An offshore patrol vessel of the Indian Navy, primarily used for surveillance, patrolling, and HADR operations.
Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF): The principal military body of the Maldives, responsible for national defence and disaster response.
HADR Exercises: Aim to strengthen preparedness and coordination among regional partners for providing timely humanitarian aid in the aftermath of natural disasters like tsunamis, cyclones, or earthquakes.
MAHASAGAR Vision: India’s framework for regional maritime cooperation focusing on security, growth, and mutual development across the Indian Ocean Region.

Updated – 05 May 2025 ; 2:27 PM | PIB