HADR Exercise

HADR Exercise Latest News

INS Sharda, an offshore patrol vessel of the Indian Navy, has arrived at Maafilaafushi Atoll, Maldives, to participate in its first-ever Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, scheduled from May 4 to May 10, 2025.

INS Sharda's Maiden HADR Exercise in the Maldives

• This initiative is part of India’s broader strategic vision to foster regional maritime cooperation and ensure disaster preparedness in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• The deployment underscores India’s commitment to its "Neighbourhood First" Policy, wherein the Maldives holds a special strategic and cultural significance as a close maritime neighbour.
• The exercise aligns with the recently launched "MAHASAGAR" vision – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions – announced by the Prime Minister in Mauritius.
• This vision reaffirms India’s role as a net security provider and first responder in the Indian Ocean.
• The MAHASAGAR vision is an extension of India’s earlier SAGAR doctrine (Security and Growth for All in the Region), emphasising inclusive security, regional collaboration, and disaster resilience.
• According to the Indian Navy, the key objectives of this HADR exercise include:
  • Enhancing interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
  • Conducting joint drills for Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, disaster response coordination, logistical support, and medical assistance.
  • Facilitating training sessions for capacity building.
  • Engaging with local communities for awareness and disaster resilience preparedness.

HADR Exercise FAQs

Q1. What does HADR stand for?
Ans. HADR stands for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, a key element of India’s defence diplomacy and regional outreach.

Q2. Which Indian agencies are involved in HADR operations?
Ans. Indian Armed Forces, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indian Coast Guard, and the Ministry of External Affairs are involved in HADR operations.

Q3. What is the significance of India’s HADR exercises?
Ans. India uses HADR exercises to enhance regional cooperation, project soft power, and strengthen response mechanisms for natural disasters in the Indo-Pacific.

Q4. Name a recent multilateral HADR exercise India participated in.
Ans. Exercise Samudra Shakti and Exercise ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME) have included HADR components recently.

Source: PIB