The 10th installment of the Joint Military Exercise Ekuverin, a collaborative effort between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force, is taking place from 7th to 20th October 2019. Hosted in Pune, Maharashtra, this longstanding cooperative endeavor is a testament to the strong military ties between India and Maldives. Launched in 2009, Exercise Ekuverin, which translates to ‘Friends’ in the Maldivian language, serves as a platform for enhancing interoperability and cooperation between the two forces.
Understanding Ekuverin
With a history spanning over a decade, the Ekuverin Joint Military Exercise is held alternately in India and Maldives. This bi-lateral exercise has its roots in creating reinforced relationships and mutual understanding between the two country’s military forces. Furthermore, it also showcases the dedication and commitment of both nations to protect their borders and maintain regional security.
Aim and Objective of the Exercise
Ekuverin is more than just a symbol of friendship and cooperation. The primary aim of these bi-annual exercises is to bolster interoperability between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force. With the rising global threat of insurgency and terrorism, the significance of these exercises has never been more pronounced. The 14-day exercise aims at carrying out counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban environments, aligning with the United Nations mandate.
Previous Editions of Exercise Ekuverin
The previous iterations of the Ekuverin Joint Military Exercise have provided valuable lessons and experiences for the participating troops. The ninth edition of this exercise took place in 2018 in Maldives. With each subsequent exercise, the planning and execution thereof get more polished, ensuring effective strategies against insurgencies and terrorist threats.
Table of Ekuverin Facts
| Name of the Exercise | Year Initiated | Latest Edition | Objective |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ekuverin | 2009 | 10th Edition, 2019 | Counter insurgency and counter-terrorism operations |
A Peek into the Current Exercise
The 10th edition of Exercise Ekuverin in Pune is following the footprints of its successful predecessors. With focused objectives and well-defined tactics, the joint military exercise promises to heighten the military prowess of both nations. It represents the collaborative spirit of India and Maldives as they work towards combating terrorism and ensuring regional security.