An Indian Navy vessel, IOS SAGAR, has arrived in Malé for its first port call since deployment, carrying naval personnel from 16 different countries.
The High Commission of India to the Maldives announced the vessel’s arrival in a post on social media, stating that it reflects India’s vision of “leadership through partnership, strength through unity, and progress through peace”.
The High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, G. Balasubramanian, welcomed the vessel upon its arrival. This marks the Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR’s second voyage, with a total of 39 international crew members on board.
The IOS SAGAR initiative is being carried out by the Indian Navy under a policy aimed at strengthening protection and defence in the Indian Ocean.
In addition to the Maldives and India, the 16 participating nations include the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Seychelles, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, and Bangladesh. These countries form part of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
IOS SAGAR is a specialised programme designed to provide training and enhance practical experience aboard an Indian naval vessel among friendly nations. Participants are able to take part in naval operations, strengthen diplomatic ties, and enhance cooperation in maritime security, according to India.
Indian Navy personnel, along with participants from other countries, shared their experiences with Maldivian media outlets. “This is a very unique experience, particularly as we have visited the Maldives as part of such an initiative,” some personnel noted.
The initiative builds on decades of work by India to ensure maritime security and reflects the Government’s vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). It also forms part of the broader framework of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Region (MAHASAGAR).
The programme began with professional training in Kochi at Indian naval training establishments, where participants learned naval operations, seamanship practices, and maritime security concepts. The current phase involves deployment on board an Indian naval vessel, where international participants work alongside Indian Navy personnel and engage in maritime operational activities.