Why in news?
The eighth edition of Exercise Ekatha, a bilateral maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), concluded in mid‑December 2025. The closing ceremony, attended by senior naval officers including India’s Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, highlighted the continued commitment of both countries to security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
Background
Exercise Ekatha has been held annually since 2017. It was conceived to enhance interoperability between the Indian Navy and the MNDF Coast Guard through joint training and exchange of best practices. The name “Ekatha” means “unity” in Dhivehi, reflecting the shared resolve to keep sea lanes safe and support humanitarian efforts. The exercise is part of India’s broader “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR) vision and the Neighbourhood First policy, which prioritise partnerships with neighbouring countries.
Highlights of the 2025 edition
- Diverse drills: Participants practised technical and combat diving, boarding operations on suspect vessels, live‑firing exercises, demolition and explosive handling, asymmetric warfare tactics and special heli‑borne operations. These drills improve coordination and readiness for real‑world missions such as anti‑piracy and search‑and‑rescue.
- Strategic discussions: Senior officers from both navies held talks on maritime security, joint training opportunities, sharing of maritime domain awareness data and cooperation to curb drug trafficking. They also reviewed progress under existing agreements.
- Cultural exchange: Sailors and marines participated in sports and cultural programmes, strengthening personal bonds and mutual understanding.
Significance
- Enhancing interoperability: Regular exercises allow the two navies to understand each other’s procedures, communication systems and operational philosophies, making future joint operations smoother.
- Regional security: A cooperative stance helps deter piracy, illegal fishing, trafficking and other maritime crimes in the Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean.
- Strengthening bilateral ties: Defence collaboration reinforces overall diplomatic relations and builds trust. For a small island nation like the Maldives, support from India enhances its capacity to safeguard its waters and respond to disasters.
Conclusion
Exercise Ekatha 2025 showcased the growing synergy between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force. As maritime challenges evolve, consistent joint training and information sharing will enable both countries to uphold peace and security in their shared maritime neighbourhood.
Source: Press Information Bureau
