The 13th edition of joint military exercise Ekuverin between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force has commenced in the archipelago nation, officials here said.
Exercise Ekuverin 2025
The 13th edition of joint military exercise Ekuverin between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force has commenced in the archipelago nation, officials here said. Ekuverin meaning ‘Friends’ in Dhivehi language is a bilateral annual exercise conducted alternatively in India and Maldives. In 2023, it was conducted at Chaubatia in Uttarakhand from June 11 to 24.
The 14-day exercise is aimed at enhancing interoperability in counter insurgency and counter terrorism operations and carry out joint humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
Aim
Aim of the Joint Exercise is to enhance joint military capability of both sides to undertake counter insurgency operations in jungle terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate. The exercise will focus on operations in the jungle environment.
India Maldives Relations
The diplomatic and political relationship between India and the Maldives dates back to 1965 when the British relinquished control of the islands.
Located south of India, the Maldives holds immense strategic importance in the Indian Ocean, acting as a gateway to the Arabian Sea and beyond.
This allows India to monitor maritime traffic and enhance regional security.
India is a crucial supplier of everyday essentials, including rice, spices, fruits, vegetables, and medicines.
India also aids in building Maldivian infrastructure by providing materials like cement and rock boulders.
Joint Exercises include- “Ekuverin”, “Dosti” and “Ekatha”.
