New Delhi, Apr 7 (PTI) - The Indian Navy's warship INS Sahyadri, currently mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), has arrived in Colombo, Sri Lanka, marking a significant moment in the strengthening of maritime ties between India and its southern neighbor. This visit, which took place on April 7, 2025, underscores the longstanding partnership between the two nations and highlights the commitment to enhancing cooperation as part of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions) initiative.
According to an Indian Navy spokesman, personnel from both the Indian and Sri Lankan navies will engage in a series of professional interactions, knowledge-sharing sessions, and joint activities aimed at enhancing operational synergy between the two maritime forces. "This visit marks a key moment in regional cooperation, reinforcing mutual commitment to maritime safety and environmental protection," the spokesman stated.
The MAHASAGAR vision was unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Mauritius in March 2025. Modi emphasized that this new approach aims to foster security and growth for the Global South. The Indian Navy's commitment to regional stability is evident in its ongoing efforts to strengthen naval diplomacy with friendly nations.
In addition to the visit of INS Sahyadri, the Indian Navy has also been active in other regions. On April 4, 2025, the stealth frigate INS Tarkash participated in a PASSEX exercise with the Royal New Zealand Navy’s ANZAC-class frigate Te Kaha in the Gulf of Aden. This exercise marked the culmination of the New Zealand-led CTF 150 joint focused operation, known as ANZAC Tiger, which ran from March 27 to April 4.
The PASSEX exercise included a variety of interoperability drills such as cross-deck landings, cross boarding, sea rider exchanges, and tactical maneuvers, all integrated with communication procedure exercises. This collaboration provided a valuable opportunity for both navies to exchange best practices and strengthen their bilateral maritime cooperation.
Indian Navy officials noted that the exercise underscored the strong and enduring relationship between India and New Zealand, reaffirming the Indian Navy’s role as a key and preferred security partner committed to ensuring regional maritime stability.
In a separate operation, the Indian Navy's stealth frigate INS Trikand, operating in the Central Arabian Sea, provided critical medical assistance to a Pakistani crew member aboard a fishing vessel approximately 350 nautical miles east of the Oman coast. This act of humanitarian assistance reflects the Indian Navy's commitment to maritime safety and cooperation beyond its immediate neighborhood.
The arrival of INS Sahyadri in Colombo comes at a time when maritime security and safety are increasingly vital in the Indian Ocean Region. The ongoing cooperation between India and Sri Lanka is pivotal for regional stability, especially given the strategic importance of the IOR in global trade and security.
As part of the visit, the Indian Navy aims to foster a deeper understanding and collaboration with the Sri Lankan Navy, which is crucial for addressing common challenges such as piracy, illegal fishing, and environmental protection. The Indian Navy has reiterated its commitment to working closely with its maritime partners to ensure the safety and security of the seas.
Overall, the visit of INS Sahyadri to Sri Lanka is not just a ceremonial occasion; it is a reflection of India’s strategic approach to its maritime relationships in the region. By enhancing operational synergy and fostering closer ties with neighboring navies, India is positioning itself as a responsible maritime power dedicated to regional peace and stability.
As these naval interactions continue to evolve, they will play a critical role in shaping the maritime landscape of the Indian Ocean Region, further solidifying India’s reputation as a key player in ensuring maritime security.
In conclusion, the Indian Navy's ongoing missions and cooperative efforts with regional partners highlight its commitment to enhancing maritime safety and operational readiness, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in addressing shared challenges in the ever-evolving geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean.
