INS Sharda, an Indian naval vessel, has departed from Colombo, Sri Lanka, following a productive port call that bolstered maritime collaboration and friendship between India and Sri Lanka. The visit, which concluded on June 14, 2026, included a series of professional, training, and sporting engagements with the Sri Lankan Navy, as per an official statement.
Capacity Building Initiatives
As part of capacity-building efforts, Sri Lankan Navy personnel received training in small arms handling, basic firefighting, first aid, and rescue procedures. These activities aimed to enhance operational readiness and mutual understanding between the two navies.
High-Level Interactions
Rear Admiral Jagath Kumara, Commander of the Western Naval Area of the Sri Lanka Navy, visited INS Sharda and interacted with the crew. His visit reaffirmed the strong maritime partnership between the two nations. Additionally, the Commanding Officer of INS Sharda paid a courtesy call on Shri Santosh Jha, the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, further underscoring diplomatic ties.
Enhancing Interoperability
Friendly sports fixtures, professional exchanges, and cross-deck visits were conducted to improve interoperability and strengthen bonds between the two services. These activities are part of ongoing efforts to foster cooperation and mutual trust.
Alignment with MAHASAGAR Vision
The visit emphasized the enduring maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka and reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional maritime cooperation and security. This aligns with India's MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision, which promotes collaborative efforts for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.
Previous Humanitarian Mission
In a related development, INS Sharda earlier arrived at Maafilaafushi Atoll in the Maldives for a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise planned from May 4 to 10, 2025. According to the Indian Navy, this deployment highlights the strong defense and maritime cooperation between India and the Maldives. The HADR exercise focused on disaster response coordination, search and rescue operations, medical assistance, logistical support, joint drills, training sessions, and community engagement after a major natural disaster.
