India Sri Lanka Strengthen Maritime Cooperation Through Diving Exercise

India Sri Lanka Strengthen Maritime Cooperation Through Diving Exercise

Why in the News ?

India and Sri Lanka conducted IN–SLN DIVEX 2026 in Colombo, showcasing enhanced maritime cooperation and interoperability. The exercise focused on deep-sea diving, rescue operations, and aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR vision for regional security and stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), while ensuring compliance with coastal regulation zone norms and maintaining a pollution free environment.

IN–SLN DIVEX 2026: Key Highlights

  • The fourth edition of the bilateral diving exercise was held in Colombo from April 21–28.
  • The Indian Navy deployed INS Nireekshak, a specialised diving and submarine rescue vessel.
  • The Sri Lanka Navy participated with its trained diving teams.
  • Focus on complex underwater operations, including mixed gas diving drills with proper environmental impact assessment protocols.
  • Divers conducted operations in both harbour and open-sea conditions, showcasing high expertise while adhering to environmental clearances for maritime activities.
  • A key highlight was diving near World War-era wrecks like SS Worcester and SS Perseus.
  • Successful dives beyond 55 metres depth, enhancing operational capability.

Strategic and Operational Significance

  • Strengthened interoperability and coordination between the two navies.
  • Improved capabilities in underwater search, rescue, and salvage operations.
  • Reinforced India’s role as a net security provider in the IOR.
  • Senior Sri Lankan naval leadership appreciated India’s training support and expertise sharing.
  • Symbolic gestures included tribute at the Indian Peace Keeping Force Memorial, honouring IPKF soldiers.
  • Humanitarian cooperation expanded through BHISM portable hospital units under Aarogya Maitri initiative.
  • Concludes with ceremonial send-off, reflecting strong bilateral camaraderie.

 

About India’s Maritime Strategy & IOR :

●  Indian Ocean Region (IOR): Critical for global trade (≈80% sea-borne oil trade) and strategic dominance.

●  MAHASAGAR Initiative: Promotes regional cooperation, maritime security, and growth among Indian Ocean nations.

●  India follows SAGAR doctrine (Security and Growth for All in the Region) since 2015.

●  Key areas of cooperation:

○   Joint naval exercises (e.g., SLINEX, DIVEX)

○   Capacity building and training

○   Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)

●  Importance of Sri Lanka:

○   Strategic location near major sea lanes of communication (SLOCs)

○   Acts as a key partner in countering regional security challenges

●  Enhances India’s maritime diplomacy and counters external influence in the IOR.