MAAFILAAFUSHI, Maldives — Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sharda arrived at Maafilaafushi Atoll on Saturday to participate in a weeklong Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise with the Maldives National Defense Force, reinforcing India’s regional cooperation commitments.
The exercise, scheduled from May 4 to 10, is designed to strengthen coordination and interoperability between the Indian Navy and MNDF in responding to natural disasters. It includes joint drills in disaster response coordination, search and rescue operations, medical assistance, logistical support, and community outreach.
India’s Ministry of Defense said the deployment underscores the robust maritime and defense cooperation between the two countries and supports New Delhi’s “MAHASAGAR” vision — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions — which promotes peace, stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.
Officials noted that such bilateral engagements are critical in enhancing disaster preparedness and building mutual capabilities to respond swiftly in times of crisis.
INS Sharda’s visit follows a series of similar initiatives in the region, aimed at bolstering strategic partnerships and collaborative humanitarian efforts.
 exercise with the Maldives National Defense Force.){kind=link}