The oceanographic research vessel of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), INS Sagardhwani, has commenced a two-month journey under the banner of SAGAR MAITRI Mission-2. This unique initiative from DRDO adheres to the broader vision of “Safety And Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)”, aiming to foster closer socio-economic cooperation and heightened scientific interaction, particularly in oceanic research, among Indian Ocean Rim (IOR) countries. The specific scientific component of DRDO falls under the title “MAITRI (Marine & Allied Interdisciplinary Training and Research Initiative)”.
Objectives of SAGAR MAITRI
SAGAR MAITRI Mission’s core objectives include data collection from the entire North Indian Ocean, with a specific emphasis on the Andaman Sea and nearby waters. Furthermore, the mission also aims to establish enduring collaboration with eight IOR countries in the sphere of oceanic research and development.
The mission not only focuses on data retrieval but also aspires to cultivate deep-rooted scientific cooperation with these nations in ‘Ocean Research & Development’ with a special focus on the Andaman Sea. The eight IOR countries involved include Oman, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Myanmar.
Key Facts
| Country | Relation with Mission |
|---|---|
| Oman | IOR country involved in collaboration |
| Maldives | IOR country involved in collaboration |
| Sri Lanka | IOR country involved in collaboration |
| Thailand | IOR country involved in collaboration |
| Malaysia | IOR country involved in collaboration |
| Singapore | IOR country involved in collaboration |
| Indonesia | IOR country involved in collaboration |
| Myanmar | IOR country involved in collaboration |
Focused Areas of the Mission
The defined focal points for SAGAR MAITRI Mission entail data collection from the expanse of the North Indian Ocean. This information retrieval concentrates on the Andaman Sea and other adjacent seas. The mission also strives to establish a long-lasting alliance with eight IOR countries in the arena of ocean research and development.
Scientific collaboration is yet another critical aim of the mission, focusing on ‘Ocean Research & Development’ and data collection from the Andaman Sea. Through these collaborative efforts, the mission aspires to enhance the socio-economic aspects and promote greater scientific interaction among the IOR countries.
