Exercise EKUVERIN
Context:
The 14th edition of the Joint Military Exercise EKUVERIN between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) commenced in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
The exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 02 to 15 December 2025.
About Exercise EKUVERIN:
Ekuverin translates to Friends in the Dhivehi language, underscoring the deep-rooted bonds of friendship and mutual trust between the two nations.
The Indian Contingent comprises 45 personnel, represented by a battalion of the GARHWAL RIFLES.
The Maldivian Contingent has an equal-strength contingent represented by the MNDF.
The exercise has been conducted alternately in both countries since 2009.
Key Features & Objectives
The two-week drill aims to hone skills in Counter-Insurgency and Counter-Terrorism operations.
Operations will be practiced across jungle, semi-urban, and coastal terrains, with specific modules tailored to island and littoral environments.
Training Modules includes room intervention, cordon-and-search operations, convoy protection, and coastal area security tasks.
Significance:
It reinforces India's Neighbourhood First policy and commitment to building enduring defence partnerships.
The exercise signals a shared resolve to combat terrorism and insurgency, contributing to regional peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region.