India–Maldives joint military exercise EKUVERIN
Context
The bilateral military exercise EKUVERIN between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF) concluded in Thiruvananthapuram.
The exercise culminated with a joint validation exercise after two weeks of intensive training.
Key features of exercise EKUVERIN
Nature of exercise
Bilateral military exercise between India and Maldives.
Conducted alternately in India and Maldives.
Focuses on operational-level cooperation between land forces.
This is the 14th edition of the Joint Military Exercise, EKUVERIN, between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) commenced in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Held alternately in India and the Maldives since 2009, it aligns with India’s Neighbourhood First policy and strengthens regional partnerships.
Focus areas
Counter Insurgency (CI) operations
Counter Terrorism (CT) operations
Training in contemporary operational environments
Emphasis on:
Interoperability
Operational synergy
Joint planning and execution
Objectives
Enhance mutual understanding of tactics and procedures
Improve coordination between armed forces
Strengthen defence cooperation and trust
Contribute to regional security and stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)