The fourteenth iteration of the EKUVERIN joint military drill, a key bilateral engagement between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), was officially inaugurated on Tuesday in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. This significant exercise underscores the ongoing defence collaboration between the two Indian Ocean neighbours.
Deepening Bonds of Friendship and Cooperation
Named EKUVERIN, which translates to 'friends' in the Dhivehi language, the exercise is a testament to the long-standing partnership and mutual trust shared by India and the Maldives. According to an official statement from the Press Information Bureau (PIB), this drill, conducted alternately in both nations since its inception in 2009, highlights India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. It reflects a dedicated commitment to forging strong and lasting defence relationships with friendly countries in the region.
Focus on Interoperability and Diverse Terrains
The two-week-long training program, scheduled from December 2 to December 15, is designed with a clear operational focus. Its primary objective is to enhance interoperability and synergy between the two forces in conducting counter-insurgency (CI) and counter-terrorism (CT) operations. The training will be particularly rigorous, covering a variety of challenging environments to ensure preparedness for real-world scenarios.
The exercise curriculum will simulate operations across:
- Jungle terrain
- Semi-urban landscapes
- Coastal settings
Personnel and Shared Expertise
A contingent of 45 personnel from the Indian Army's Southern Command is participating in the drill. They are joined by an equivalent number of soldiers from the Maldivian side. Over the course of the exercise, troops from both nations will engage in a productive exchange of knowledge and tactics.
This will involve sharing best practices, rehearsing tactical drills, and conducting joint operational planning sessions. The ultimate goal is to strengthen their combined capability to effectively address common security challenges that could arise in the region, thereby promoting greater stability.
