India Blames Pakistan For Stalling SAARC, Reaffirms Commitment To Regional Cooperation

India has strongly reiterated its position on regional cooperation, indirectly pointing at Pakistan as the country responsible for obstructing the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). 

The Ministry of External Affairs emphasised that goodwill is essential for cooperation, while highlighting India’s decades-long commitment to strengthening regional ties.

During a regular media briefing, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India favours strong regional cooperation and has consistently worked towards it.

He remarked that everyone in South Asia is aware of which country and which activities are stymieing SAARC. He underlined that cooperation requires goodwill, a clear reference to Pakistan’s role in blocking progress.

The remarks came in response to queries regarding Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s recent appeal to revive SAARC. Muizzu had urged member states to resolve differences through dialogue and offered Maldives as a mediator to break the deadlock.

His comments were made during the Independence Day ceremony marking 61 years of Maldives’ independence, attended by 113 diplomats from 43 countries and international organisations.

India’s statement reflects its long-standing frustration with Pakistan’s support for cross-border terrorism, which has stalled dialogue between the two countries. Pakistan’s actions have also included aggression against Afghanistan, further complicating regional stability.

These activities have paralysed SAARC, preventing it from fulfilling its mandate of fostering cooperation and integration across South Asia.

The SAARC grouping, comprising Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, was established to promote economic cooperation and regional development. However, the organisation has remained largely inactive in recent years due to political tensions, particularly between India and Pakistan.

Bangladesh has also voiced support for reviving SAARC. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed recently outlined measures to strengthen the organisation, including stronger implementation capacity, greater financial strength, more effective specialised mechanisms, and a practical culture of follow-up. Obaed suggested convening a senior officials’ meeting and even a special session of the Council of Ministers to re-energise the grouping.

India’s position underscores that while it remains committed to regional cooperation, progress cannot be achieved without goodwill and constructive engagement. The statement highlights that the responsibility for the current deadlock lies with Pakistan’s actions, which have undermined trust and stability in the region.

In addition to SAARC-related queries, Jaiswal addressed questions on India-China border trade. He confirmed that in August 2025, both sides had agreed to resume border trade through three designated trading points—Lipulekh Pass, Shipki La Pass and Nathu La Pass—and that steps are being taken forward accordingly. This reflects ongoing efforts to stabilise and expand economic engagement despite broader geopolitical challenges.

Jaiswal also noted that an invitation has been extended to the Prime Minister of Nepal to visit India, signalling India’s intent to strengthen bilateral ties with its neighbours and reinforce regional diplomacy.

India’s remarks, combined with Maldives’ and Bangladesh’s recent calls, place renewed focus on the future of SAARC. The grouping, if revived, could play a significant role in addressing shared challenges such as economic instability, security concerns and development needs across South Asia. 

However, the path forward remains contingent on Pakistan’s willingness to abandon destabilising activities and engage constructively.

ANI

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Maldives President Calls For SAARC Revival, Offers Mediation For Regional Peace

Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has urged the revival of SAARC, offering Maldives as a mediator to break the deadlock and calling for dialogue among member states to ensure regional peace and cooperation. His Independence Day address also highlighted Maldives’ foreign policy priorities and echoed Bangladesh’s recent push for stronger regional mechanisms.

President Mohamed Muizzu delivered his remarks during the 61st Independence Day ceremony in Male on Sunday. He emphasised that the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) must be revived, urging member states to resolve differences through dialogue. He noted that the Maldives stands ready to serve as a mediator to overcome the current impasse.

The President’s comments were made in front of 113 diplomats representing 43 countries and international organisations. He elaborated on the Maldives’ foreign policy, stressing that disputes should be resolved peacefully and that dialogue remains the most effective tool for stability. He reiterated that regional peace and cooperation are essential for South Asia’s future.

Muizzu referred to the prolonged deadlock within SAARC, which has been largely paralysed due to tensions between India and Pakistan. He called on member states to return to the negotiating table, underlining that the Maldives is prepared to play a constructive role in facilitating discussions. He described SAARC as a vital regional organisation that must not remain dormant.

Earlier in July, Bangladesh also voiced strong support for reviving SAARC. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed outlined measures to strengthen the organisation, including greater financial strength, stronger implementation capacity, more effective specialised mechanisms, and a culture of follow-up. Obaed suggested convening a senior officials’ meeting and even a special session of the Council of Ministers to re-energise the grouping.

The SAARC organisation, comprising Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, was established in 1985 to promote economic cooperation, regional integration, and development. However, it has been inactive for nearly a decade. The last summit was held in Kathmandu in 2014, while the 2016 summit scheduled in Islamabad was cancelled due to cross-border terrorism concerns and lack of consensus among member states.

Muizzu’s remarks also reflected the Maldives’ broader foreign policy stance. He stressed that the country’s independence must be safeguarded through active diplomacy and peaceful engagement. He highlighted that the Maldives’ foreign policy is rooted in dialogue and cooperation, aligning with the aspirations of its people and the wider region.

Observers noted that Muizzu’s call comes at a time when South Asia faces multiple challenges, including economic instability, security concerns, and strained bilateral ties. His offer to mediate between member states, particularly India and Pakistan, signals Maldives’ intent to play a more proactive role in regional diplomacy.

Bangladesh’s parallel push for revival adds momentum to the idea of reactivating SAARC. With both Maldives and Bangladesh advocating for renewed cooperation, there is growing pressure on other member states to reconsider their positions and explore ways to overcome longstanding obstacles.

The revival of SAARC would be significant for South Asia, a region home to nearly 1.9 billion people and accounting for about 24 percent of the world’s population. The grouping’s combined GDP is estimated at around $5 trillion, underscoring its potential for economic integration and collective growth if political differences can be bridged.

ANI

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Pragati 2026 Showcases India’s Role As Net Regional Security Provider

India’s PRAGATI 2026 exercise in Meghalaya has emerged as one of the most ambitious multilateral land force drills India has ever hosted, combining jungle warfare training, advanced technology demonstrations, and defence industry showcases.

It highlights India’s growing role as a net regional security provider, blending operational cooperation with strategic defence self-reliance.

Tucked away in the hills of Meghalaya, Umroi Military Station’s Joint Training Node provided the perfect setting for PRAGATI 2026. For two weeks beginning on 18 May, contingents from twelve nations — Bhutan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, the Philippines, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and Vietnam — trained alongside the Indian Army.

The design of the exercise was deliberately operational, with integrated mixed teams rather than separate national contingents. Soldiers conducted ambush and counter-ambush drills in jungle terrain, practised rock craft, slithering exercises, jungle lane shooting, sniper competitions and AK-203 firing events.

Bus intervention operations, tactical planning and coordination drills were built around realistic counter-terrorism scenarios in semi-mountainous and jungle environments, reflecting the actual security challenges faced by many of these nations.

The Indian Army also deployed its K9 teams and robotic dogs, demonstrating how traditional battlefield assets and emerging technologies can be integrated. Dogs trained in explosive detection, tracking and assault operations worked alongside robotic platforms, showcasing adaptability and innovation. Informal sporting competitions such as volleyball and basketball further strengthened camaraderie among soldiers who had never operated together before.

The choice of Meghalaya was strategic. The Northeast is the physical junction between South Asia and Southeast Asia, making it a natural venue for India’s Neighbourhood First and Act East policies. PRAGATI translated these frameworks into tangible cooperation, with Vietnamese and Filipino soldiers training alongside Nepali and Sri Lankan counterparts.

The Indian Ocean connects all participating nations, and shared counter-terrorism doctrine built through joint training provides a baseline for future cooperation.

On the final two days, Indian defence companies and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) organised an exposition. Technologies showcased included unmanned aerial systems, counter-drone equipment, robotic logistics platforms, AI-enabled battlefield management tools, software-defined radios and advanced surveillance systems.

The AK-203 rifle, jointly manufactured in India, was used throughout the exercise, offering foreign troops a direct demonstration of its effectiveness. This was Atmanirbhar Bharat with strategic logic — self-reliance translated into regional relevance, lowering barriers to future defence cooperation and procurement.

India’s role as a net security provider was underscored by its track record of humanitarian and disaster relief operations. From Operation Castor and Operation Gambhir after the 2004 tsunami, to Operation Maitri in Nepal in 2015, Operation Sadbhav in Southeast Asia in 2024, Operation Rahat in Yemen, Mission Sagar during the COVID pandemic, and Operation Sagar Bandhu in Sri Lanka last year, India has consistently contributed more to regional stability than it has taken.

Unlike powers that build bases or station troops, India focuses on capacity building, training, surveillance integration, emergency response and now joint training platforms like PRAGATI.

The exercise concluded with a 72-hour validation drill, consolidating training outcomes and demonstrating operational synergy. Over 400 soldiers, including women personnel, participated in demanding drills, cultural exchanges and yoga sessions, reinforcing bonds of friendship and professional trust.

PRAGATI 2026 thus represents a milestone in India’s defence diplomacy, combining tactical readiness, technological innovation and strategic outreach to position India as a reliable partner in regional security.

Agencies

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Joint Military Exercise Pragati 2026 Brings Together 13 Nations In Meghalaya For Counter-Terrorism Operations

A major joint military exercise, PRAGATI 2026, has begun at Umroi Military Station in Meghalaya with the participation of 13 nations, including India and 12 friendly countries.

The two-week drill focuses on counter-terrorism operations in semi-mountainous and jungle terrain, while also showcasing India’s defence innovations under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

The Indian Army formally welcomed contingents from Bhutan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and Vietnam. The exercise, conducted in the spirit of equality, friendship and mutual respect, aims to strengthen defence cooperation, enhance interoperability, and build mutual trust among regional partners. The warm reception included traditional ceremonies, reflecting India’s cultural heritage and hospitality.

The programme is designed to improve adaptability, endurance and tactical proficiency of participating troops. Training activities include joint planning exercises, tactical-level drills, and coordinated operations that simulate counter-terrorism scenarios in difficult terrain. Emphasis is placed on physical fitness, discipline, and coordination to prepare soldiers for real-world challenges.

The exercise also seeks to institutionalise mechanisms for sharing best practices, enabling seamless coordination in multinational operations.

A key highlight of PRAGATI 2026 is the showcase of indigenous defence equipment and innovations by Indian technology and defence companies. This aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and underlining India’s growing capabilities in defence production, innovation, and self-reliance. Such exhibitions are expected to foster collaboration and inspire confidence in India’s defence industry.

The objectives of the exercise extend beyond tactical training. They include strengthening defence ties through joint training and cultural exchange, evolving common concepts for intelligence management and sharing, and identifying areas of cooperation among participating nations.

These goals reflect a broader vision of collective security in the Indian Ocean Region, where regional armies are increasingly working together to address common threats.

The opening ceremony was attended by senior military officials and dignitaries. Major General Sunil Sheoran, Additional Director General of Infantry, Indian Army, welcomed the contingents and emphasised the importance of collective engagement in tackling contemporary security challenges.

He encouraged participants to engage with openness, mutual respect, and a willingness to learn from one another’s experiences. He noted that the diverse strengths and perspectives of each nation would contribute meaningfully towards achieving the collective objectives of the exercise.

The exercise is expected to deepen professional bonds and contribute to a shared approach to security challenges. By combining tactical drills with cultural exchange, PRAGATI 2026 underscores the importance of both operational readiness and mutual understanding. It represents a significant step in India’s defence diplomacy, reinforcing its role as a regional leader committed to cooperative security.

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India’s IOS Sagar Builds Multilateral Naval Partnerships Across The Indo-Pacific

India’s IOS Sagar initiative represents a bold experiment in building a navy of neighbours, embedding regional personnel into Indian deployments to foster interoperability and shared maritime governance, wrote Shantanu Roy-Chaudhury. 

Its success will depend on consistency, inclusivity, and India’s ability to balance strategic ambition with regional ownership.

An Indian warship sailed from Mumbai last month carrying 38 personnel from 16 countries alongside its Indian crew, marking the second edition of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar initiative. The deployment spans the Maldives, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, reflecting India’s intent to intensify regional outreach.

This initiative, launched in 2025, aims to create a shared operational platform where the crew itself is a multilateral formation, moving beyond symbolic gestures to practical cooperation.

Preparatory training was conducted at Indian naval establishments in Kochi under the Southern Command. Here, participants were introduced to seamanship practices, maritime security concepts and naval operations, alongside standardised communication procedures and safety protocols.

This training ensured that the multinational crew could operate as a cohesive unit during the deployment, embedding interoperability in daily routines rather than limiting cooperation to joint communiqués.

The Indian Navy benefits from exposure to diverse practices. Singapore’s heavy automation in ship management and Sri Lanka’s proficiency in visit, board, search and seizure strategies are examples of knowledge transfer. Unlike “sea rider” models where foreign observers remain peripheral, IOS Sagar integrates foreign personnel into shipboard operations, creating genuine operational familiarity.

India’s intensified Southeast Asian engagement is both a response to China’s growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific and a recognition of Southeast Asia’s pivotal role in regional geopolitics. The designation of 2026 as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation underscores this priority. 

China’s naval presence in the Indian Ocean has expanded, with frequent research vessel deployments and deepening defence partnerships across ASEAN. India’s counter-strategy has focused on accumulating presence, deepening familiarity, and building practical interoperability with regional navies.

Exercises have evolved into complex collaborations covering anti-submarine warfare, maritime domain awareness, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

IOS Sagar also aligns with India’s broader outreach to the Global South under the MAHASAGAR initiative announced in Mauritius in March 2025. Its focus on exclusive economic zone surveillance, counter-trafficking, illegal fishing, and disaster response resonates with the functional maritime challenges prioritised by smaller Indian Ocean and ASEAN states.

This orientation distinguishes India’s value proposition from other major powers, offering capacity-building and institutional engagement without alliance obligations or ideological conditions.

Yet challenges remain. The economic dimension is India’s most glaring gap. Structural imbalances in trade and investment flows limit the sustainability of India’s influence compared to China’s comprehensive economic engagement. Maritime cooperation alone cannot substitute for the economic density that underpins durable strategic partnerships.

Moreover, the 16 nations participating in IOS Sagar are not a cohesive bloc. They include states with substantial ties to China, those navigating territorial disputes, and others whose maritime priorities are developmental. Sustaining participation will require responsiveness to this diversity rather than consolidation around a narrow strategic agenda.

The long-term credibility of IOS Sagar will rest not only on India’s consistency of commitment but also on its willingness to share ownership. Rotating co-leadership among partner navies could signal that IOS Sagar is a regional institution rather than an Indian project.

Such inclusivity would strengthen its legitimacy and durability, ensuring that it serves regional maritime governance as much as New Delhi’s strategic objectives.

This story originally appeared on The Interpreter, published by the Lowy Institute for International Policy. The piece has been since edited as per IDN policies.

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Chinese Research Vessel Shi Yan-6 Completes Indian Ocean Survey, Raises Strategic Concerns

The Chinese research vessel Shi Yan 6 concluded a new survey in the Indian Ocean Region in March 2025, operating near the Ninety East Ridge before arriving in Malé, Maldives, Damien Symon says (@detresfa_).

Its activities, framed as scientific, have raised strategic concerns due to the vessel’s advanced seabed mapping capabilities and potential dual-use applications.

The Shi Yan 6, China’s first geophysical ocean research vessel, entered the Indian Ocean in March 2025. Officially, its mission was to conduct marine geological and geophysical surveys, but Indian observers noted that its operations carried clear military relevance.

The vessel was observed operating in the vicinity of the Ninety East Ridge, a prominent underwater feature in the eastern Indian Ocean, before making port in Male, Maldives. This deployment was part of a broader pattern of Chinese research activity in the region, which India has been monitoring closely.

© Damien Symon - @detresfa_

Equipped with advanced sub-bottom profilers, magnetometers, and multibeam echo sounders, Shi Yan 6 is capable of generating detailed seabed profiles. Such data is vital not only for scientific exploration but also for submarine navigation and undersea resource mapping.

The vessel’s survey work therefore has dual-use implications, potentially supporting both civilian research and military operations. Indian defence analysts have highlighted that seabed mapping of this kind could assist in identifying undersea features critical for submarine routes or cable-laying infrastructure.

The arrival of Shi Yan 6 in Male underscored China’s growing maritime presence in the Indian Ocean Region. While presented as a scientific expedition, the timing and location of its operations raised questions about Beijing’s broader maritime domain awareness strategy.

India’s Ministry of Defence and the Navy’s Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) were reported to be tracking the vessel’s movements, reflecting heightened vigilance over foreign research ships operating near India’s maritime boundary and Exclusive Economic Zone.

The deployment of Shi Yan 6 coincided with the presence of other Chinese research vessels in the Indian Ocean, including Shen Hai Yi Hao and Lan Hai. Together, these ships were engaged in survey operations across different parts of the region, from the Bay of Bengal to the Arabian Sea.

Analysts suggested that their coordinated activities could be aimed at systematically mapping key underwater features along critical sea lanes.

The strategic significance of these surveys was further underscored by regional developments, including the cancellation of a planned BrahMos missile test near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Against this backdrop, the presence of Chinese research vessels was seen as part of a broader effort to expand Beijing’s influence and operational knowledge in the Indian Ocean, a region central to India’s strategic and economic security.

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India Extends ₹3,000 Crore Currency Swap To Maldives To Shore Up Its Forex Reserves, Reinforcing Regional Financial Partnership

India has approved a ₹3,000 crore currency swap withdrawal for the Maldives on Thursday, 23 April 2026, aimed at strengthening the island nation’s foreign exchange reserves and ensuring economic stability.

The Indian High Commission in Male confirmed that the disbursement falls under the SAARC Currency Swap Framework, a regional mechanism designed to provide short-term liquidity support.

This latest financial injection builds on an agreement signed between the Reserve Bank of India and the Maldives Monetary Authority during President Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit to New Delhi in October 2024.

The facility is intended to help manage balance of payments pressures while reducing reliance on costly external commercial borrowing. The timing of the withdrawal coincides with the maturity of a previous $400 million facility, also drawn under the SAARC framework in late 2024, which reached its scheduled settlement date on Thursday.

According to the Indian High Commission, since the inception of the SAARC Swap Framework in 2012, the Reserve Bank of India has extended an aggregate swap support of $1.1 billion to the Maldives.

The mission highlighted that such mechanisms are vital for maintaining macroeconomic health. India has also previously rolled over $100 million in Treasury Bills to provide emergency support at the request of Maldivian authorities.

The High Commission underscored that the Maldives remains a key partner under India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, reiterating India’s role as the ‘first responder’ for the island nation.

The Maldivian government welcomed the transaction, describing it as evidence of fiscal responsibility. Officials emphasised that the settlement of the earlier $400 million facility demonstrates their commitment to honouring international financial obligations.

“The successful settlement of the $400 million facility underscores the government’s resolve to honour its financial commitments,” the Maldives Foreign Ministry stated. Regional observers noted that this cooperation reinforces India’s position as a primary financial partner in South Asia. The transaction is expected to provide stability to the Maldivian economy amid ongoing global market uncertainties.

Agencies

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Naval Synergy: IOS Sagar Commences Multinational Deployment With Maldives Visit

The Indian Naval Ship Sagar arrived in the Maldives this Monday, marking the very first port call of its current overseas deployment.

This arrival serves as a significant milestone for the mission, which is being carried out alongside a diverse international contingent.

The vessel is carrying 39 international crew members representing 16 different countries, including personnel from the Maldives National Defence Force. This collective presence was highlighted by the Indian Embassy in the Maldives, which noted that the visit reflects India's overarching vision of achieving leadership through partnership and progress through peace.

This deployment represents the second edition of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative, which officially commenced on 16 March. The programme reaffirms India’s dedicated commitment to collaborative maritime security across the Indian Ocean Region, following a formal announcement by the Ministry of Defence.

In February 2026, the Indian Navy assumed the chair of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). Consequently, this particular edition of the programme features active participation from 16 IONS member nations, all located within the Indian Ocean Region.

The initiative is a key component of the Government of India’s broader maritime strategy. It builds upon long-standing cooperation efforts and aligns with the vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), as well as the MAHASAGAR framework, which promotes mutual and holistic advancement for security.

IOS SAGAR functions as a unique operational engagement programme, allowing naval personnel from friendly foreign countries to train and sail alongside their Indian counterparts. By integrating these international participants into daily shipboard activities, the programme enhances practical cooperation and shared understanding of complex maritime operations.

The current edition began with intensive professional training interactions at Indian Naval establishments in Kochi. During this phase, participants were exposed to essential naval operations, seamanship practices, and core maritime security concepts before embarking on the sea-going phase of the mission.

While at sea, the international crew participates in various operational activities alongside Indian Navy personnel. The voyage is designed to include multiple port visits and maritime engagement activities, which are intended to strengthen professional ties and encourage the exchange of best practices.

These ongoing engagements are vital for fostering a deeper understanding of shared maritime challenges. By working in close proximity, the partner navies and maritime agencies aim to build a more secure and unified environment across the regions involved in the deployment.

ANI

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New Delhi Evaluates Maldives’ Request For Fuel Assistance Amid Hormuz Blockade

In the wake of a deepening energy crisis triggered by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, the Maldives has formally approached India to secure a steady supply of petroleum products.

This request, which covers both short-term and long-term requirements, arrives at a critical juncture as global oil markets experience extreme volatility.

New Delhi has confirmed that it is currently assessing the appeal from Male, though it must carefully balance its diplomatic commitments with its own domestic consumption and strategic reserves.

The geopolitical landscape of South Asia is increasingly defined by these energy dependencies, with the Maldives' move following similar patterns of regional cooperation. India recently demonstrated its capacity for cross-border energy support by dispatching substantial diesel consignments to Bangladesh via the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline.

Furthermore, Sri Lanka has already received approximately 38,000 metric tons of petroleum products from India to help stabilize its precarious economic situation.

Country	Status & Emergency Measures
Philippines	First to declare a State of National Energy Emergency (March 24). Fuel prices have surged, with diesel exceeding ₱130/litre
Sri Lanka	Implementing fuel rationing and a four-day work week to conserve dwindling stocks.
Pakistan	Similar to Sri Lanka, has shifted to reduced work weeks and strict energy rationing.
Bangladesh	Implementing rotational power cuts and has closed universities to manage the shortage.
South Korea & Japan	Releasing record amounts from strategic oil reserves to mitigate their 70–90% dependence on Middle Eastern crude.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal recently underscored the continuity of India’s role as a regional energy provider. He noted that while long-standing arrangements with Nepal and Bhutan remain active, the government is also monitoring the situations in Mauritius and the Seychelles.

Although these Indian Ocean nations have not yet issued formal requests for assistance, India remains engaged with their governments to anticipate potential shortages before they escalate into full-blown crises.

The urgency of the Maldives' request is underscored by the dire measures being taken by its neighbours. Sri Lanka and Pakistan have been forced to implement strict fuel rationing and have even transitioned to four-day work weeks to curb national energy consumption.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh has resorted to closing universities and instituting rotational power cuts to manage the dwindling supply, highlighting the severe socio-economic impact of the current market instability.

Beyond South Asia, the crisis is reverberating across the continent, forcing major economies like Japan and South Korea to release record volumes from their strategic oil reserves.

These nations are particularly vulnerable due to their overwhelming 70–90% reliance on crude oil sourced from the Middle East. The situation reached a diplomatic breaking point on 24 March 2026, when the Philippines became the first nation to officially declare a State of National Energy Emergency.

The financial pressure on these developing economies is mounting as Brent crude prices have surged past the $100 per barrel threshold. Market analysts have issued stark warnings that the situation could deteriorate further, with prices potentially doubling to $200 per barrel.

Such a catastrophic spike remains a distinct possibility if the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz—a vital global chokepoint for oil tankers—persists in the coming months.

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India Says Will Weighs Own Needs As Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives Seek Diesel Supply: MEA

India has received urgent requests from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives for supplies of petroleum products, particularly diesel, amid escalating disruptions in global fuel markets.

These pleas come as the ongoing conflict in West Asia—sparked by hostilities between the US-Israel alliance and Iran—threatens to choke off key shipping lanes and refine critical energy flows.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, confirmed the developments during a briefing in New Delhi on Thursday. Bangladesh, grappling with acute shortages of petrol and diesel, has already benefited from Indian exports delivered via waterways, rail, and the dedicated India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline.

India stands as a major exporter of refined petroleum to its neighbourhood, with diesel shipments to Bangladesh forming a cornerstone of this trade. Jaiswal emphasised that while supplies will continue, decisions hinge on India's domestic availability, refining capacity, and strategic priorities.

Similar appeals have poured in from Sri Lanka and the Maldives, underscoring the ripple effects of the West Asian turmoil on South Asia's energy security. These nations, heavily reliant on imported fuels, face mounting pressures as global supply chains falter.

The India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline (IBFP), inaugurated in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and then-Bangladesh Premier Sheikh Hasina, exemplifies bilateral energy cooperation. Operated from Assam's Numaligarh Refinery Limited, it boasts a capacity of 1 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) of high-speed diesel (HSD).

Numaligarh has supplied petroleum to Bangladesh commercially since 2015, with recent deliveries including 5,000 tonnes crossing the Parbatipur border just yesterday. Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) Chairman Muhammad Rezanur Rahman highlighted this as a vital lifeline amid the shortages.

Government sources in India portray these exports as routine commercial transactions, integral to longstanding energy ties. Yet, the MEA's cautious stance signals a balancing act: supporting neighbours without compromising India's own needs.

In parallel, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has engaged in three recent conversations with his Iranian counterpart. Their latest discussion focused on safeguarding shipping routes and bolstering India's energy security, though Jaiswal deemed further details premature.

This episode highlights India's growing role as a regional energy anchor, leveraging its refining prowess—bolstered by entities like Indian Oil Corporation and private players—to navigate geopolitical storms. As West Asian tensions persist, New Delhi's Neighbourhood First policy faces a real-time test.

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Maldives Ambassador Meets With COAS Gen Upendra Dwivedi; Forge Ahead On Defence Ties Amid Indian Ocean Security Shifts

India's High Commissioner to the Maldives, G Balasubramanian, met with Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi in New Delhi on 27 February 2026 to explore avenues for deepening the strategic and defence ties between the two nations.

The discussions, as highlighted in a post on X by the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) of the Indian Army, centred on strengthening the India-Maldives strategic partnership amid an evolving regional security landscape.

Both sides reviewed the current security dynamics in the Indian Ocean region, a critical maritime domain for trade, energy security, and geopolitical stability.

They also examined opportunities to bolster defence and diplomatic cooperation, reflecting India's commitment to fostering closer military interoperability with its maritime neighbour. This engagement underscores a renewed phase in bilateral relations, following periods of strain, and signals a mutual intent to counter emerging challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

Earlier on Thursday, Maldives Minister of State for Tourism and Environment, Muaviyath Mohamed, reaffirmed the enduring closeness of India-Maldives ties during an interaction with ANI.

Mohamed emphasised that the two countries, as nearest neighbours, maintain a relationship built on mutual respect and collaboration across multiple domains.

He pointed to ongoing joint efforts in sustainable development, market reforms, and addressing global challenges, which aim to yield benefits for both nations. The long-standing partnership, according to Mohamed, has intensified recently, particularly in meeting frameworks for environmental and developmental targets.

India has emerged as a reliable partner in these initiatives, offering technological advancements, knowledge transfer, and capacity-building support to the Maldives. Mohamed noted upcoming meetings with Indian counterparts at various institutions to tackle shared issues in environmental protection and sustainable development.

Such collaborations, he added, leverage India's expertise to provide solutions for common regional problems, enhancing resilience for both countries.

On the maritime front, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti engaged with Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard Commandant Brigadier General Mohamed Saleem on 18 February.

This naval interaction, as stated by the Indian Navy spokesperson, underscored the strategic significance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The meeting focused on advancing the strong maritime partnership through enhanced cooperation and professional exchanges.

It built on continued engagements during the upcoming MILAN 2026 multilateral naval exercise, reinforcing commitments to regional maritime security and stability. The participation of the MNDF Coast Guard Ship Huravee in these efforts highlights the Maldives' dedication to improving interoperability at sea.

These developments collectively indicate a multifaceted revival in India-Maldives relations, spanning army-level strategic dialogues, environmental partnerships, and naval collaborations. Amid broader geopolitical shifts, including China's growing influence in the IOR, such ties are pivotal for India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and the Maldives' security architecture.

The emphasis on defence cooperation could pave the way for joint training, capacity enhancement, and intelligence sharing, vital for safeguarding exclusive economic zones.

Sustainable development initiatives further complement these efforts, aligning with India's development assistance programmes like the Greater Malé Connectivity Project.

As regional security dynamics evolve—with concerns over non-traditional threats like piracy, illegal fishing, and climate-induced vulnerabilities—these partnerships gain added urgency.

India's role as a first responder in the IOR, demonstrated in past operations, positions it ideally to lead such collaborative frameworks. The Maldives' recalibration of ties post its 'India Out' campaign reflects pragmatic diplomacy, recognising New Delhi's indispensable contributions.

Future avenues may include expanded hydrographic surveys, disaster response mechanisms, and people-to-people exchanges to sustain this momentum.

These interactions herald a robust phase of strategic convergence, essential for peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean littorals.

ANI

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17th Edition of India-Maldives-Sri Lanka DOSTI Exercise Kicks Off In Maldives

The 17th edition of the DOSTI exercise, a key trilateral maritime drill involving the Indian Coast Guard, Sri Lankan Coast Guard, and Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), has commenced in Male, Maldives.

This longstanding platform for regional cooperation kicked off with its harbour phase on 17 January 2026, underscoring renewed commitments to maritime security amid evolving regional dynamics.

The Indian Coast Guard announced the exercise's start via a post on X, highlighting collaborative MARPOL exercises—focused on marine pollution response—and joint Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) drills. These activities aim to enhance interoperability and build camaraderie among the participating forces.

Live demonstrations of pollution response equipment took centre stage during the harbour phase, alongside tabletop exercises and cross-boarding standard operating procedures (SOPs). Such practical engagements foster reciprocal learning and capacity building, preparing the coast guards for real-world maritime challenges.

A four-member delegation from the Indian Coast Guard, led by Director General Paramesh Sivamani, arrived in the Maldives specifically for DOSTI 17. Their presence signals India's proactive role in bolstering ties with neighbours, aligning with the 'SAGAR' (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision and the neighbourhood-first policy.

Director General Sivamani engaged with MNDF chiefs during the visit, advocating for enhanced bilateral cooperation. This interaction reflects India's strategic emphasis on collective maritime resilience in the Indian Ocean Region.

The official inauguration ceremony unfolded on 17 January at Hotel Jen in Male, graced by Maldives Minister of Defence, Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, as chief guest. He emphasised the vital need for sustained cooperation, coordination, and interoperability among the three coast guards.

Attendees included several Maldivian government ministers, Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, Vice Chief of Defence Force Brigadier General Ahmed Ghiyas, as well as Director Generals from the Indian and Sri Lankan Coast Guards and foreign ambassadors. The event symbolised high-level endorsement of trilateral maritime partnerships.

This year's DOSTI 17 prioritises hands-on joint training and information sharing, offering personnel a chance to exchange expertise and forge stronger professional bonds. Such emphasis addresses contemporary threats like illegal fishing, piracy, and environmental hazards.

Historically, DOSTI began in 1991 as a bilateral exercise between the MNDF Coast Guard and Indian Coast Guard. It evolved into a trilateral format in 2012 with Sri Lanka's inclusion, cementing its status as a cornerstone of regional maritime collaboration.

The harbour phase, currently underway, incorporates VBSS training and MARPOL simulations to promote mutual understanding. Indian Coast Guard ships and aircraft stand ready for the forthcoming sea phase, which will test operational coordination in open waters.

DOSTI 17 reinforces maritime domain awareness and joint readiness in the Indian Ocean, vital for smaller island nations like Maldives and Sri Lanka amid growing geopolitical complexities. It exemplifies practical diplomacy, enhancing collective responses to shared security imperatives.

Based On ANI Report

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Navy's Deputy CNS Hands Over Operational Spares For MNDF's Huravee To Maldives Chief of Defence Force

India's Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, handed over a vital consignment of operational spares for the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Huravee to Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, the Chief of Defence Force of Maldives.

The handover occurred during a formal function aboard INS Sharda in Male on Monday, marking a significant step in bilateral maritime cooperation.

This event coincided with Vice Admiral Sobti's maiden visit to the Maldives, which the Indian Navy highlighted in posts on X. The visit reaffirmed New Delhi's commitment to bolstering regional partnerships and enhancing maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Discussions between the two senior officers centred on key maritime security challenges, including expanded training engagements and intensified joint operations against drug trafficking. They also reviewed progress on ongoing projects and explored avenues for improved maritime information sharing between the Indian Navy and MNDF.

The Indian Navy emphasised that the gesture aligns with India's 'Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth for all in the Region' (MAHASAGAR) vision and the 'Neighbourhood First' policy. These frameworks underscore New Delhi's proactive role in fostering stability and inclusive growth across the Indo-Pacific.

Major General Ibrahim Hilmy described the meeting as an honour, noting productive talks on maritime security cooperation and the strengthening of defence ties. In his X post, he welcomed the discussions at the Integrated Headquarters of MNDF, signalling mutual appreciation for the partnership.

MCGS Huravee holds historical significance in India-Maldives defence relations. Originally commissioned as INS Tillanchang—a Trinkat-class patrol vessel—in March 2001, the ship was gifted to Maldives by India in April 2006. This transfer bolstered strategic collaboration for IOR maritime security.

Just this April, India completed a comprehensive refit of MCGS Huravee at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. The upgrade, executed under the 'Neighbourhood First' and MAHASAGAR visions, enhances the vessel's operational capabilities and demonstrates India's sustained support for Maldives' maritime defence infrastructure.

India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy prioritises mutually beneficial ties with immediate neighbours. It delivers tailored developmental aid, capacity-building, infrastructure projects—from mega developments to grassroots initiatives—and financial or humanitarian assistance to promote regional stability and prosperity.

Complementing this, MAHASAGAR represents an evolution of India's SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine. Launched with a focus on the Indian Ocean, it now extends to a broader Indo-Pacific maritime strategy, emphasising the global south. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced its expansion during a March 2025 visit to Mauritius.

The timely spares handover ensures MCGS Huravee remains mission-ready, vital for Maldives' exclusive economic zone patrolling, anti-smuggling operations, and disaster response in a piracy-prone region. It exemplifies practical defence diplomacy amid evolving IOR geopolitics.

This cooperation occurs against a backdrop of deepening India-Maldives ties post-2024 political shifts in Male. Despite earlier tensions, recent joint military exercises like EKUVERIN—scheduled for December 2025 in Kerala—further signal renewed alignment on counter-terrorism and interoperability.

Broader regional forums, such as the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC), also feature prominently. India hosted the seventh NSA-level CSC meeting in November 2025, involving Maldives alongside Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, with focus on shared security challenges.

Such initiatives counter external influences in the IOR, including China's expanding footprint via debt-financed infrastructure. India's assistance positions it as the preferred security partner for Maldives, emphasising capacity-building over exploitative lending.

The event aboard INS Sharda—a domestically built offshore patrol vessel—highlights India's indigenous shipbuilding prowess. Delivered to the Navy in 2021, it exemplifies the self-reliance driving New Delhi's ability to support neighbours effectively.

Looking ahead, enhanced training, information sharing, and logistics support could evolve into co-developed platforms or joint surveillance networks. These would fortify the IOR's resilience against non-traditional threats like illegal fishing, trafficking, and climate-induced disasters.

Vice Admiral Sobti's visit and the spares transfer thus serve as a microcosm of India's strategic maritime outreach. They reinforce defence interoperability while advancing shared goals of a secure, prosperous neighbourhood.

Based On ANI Report

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Indo-Maldivian Ekuverin Exercise Enters Final Phase, Strengthening Military Ties

India and the Maldives are intensifying their military partnership through Exercise Ekuverin 2025, now entering its final phase in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. This joint endeavour underscores a deepening commitment to regional security amid evolving challenges in the Indian Ocean.

The 14th edition of the bilateral exercise kicked off on 2 December and is scheduled to wrap up on 15 December. Hosted in Kerala’s coastal terrain, it brings together troops from the Indian Army’s Southern Command and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

A contingent of 45 personnel from a Garhwal Rifles battalion represents India, matched by an equal number from the MNDF. This balanced participation fosters genuine collaboration during the two-week program.

Training unfolds across diverse landscapes, including jungles, semi-urban zones, and coastal stretches. These settings replicate real-world scenarios pertinent to Indian Ocean security dynamics.

The exercise zeroes in on amphibious and littoral operations, vital for nations flanking key maritime routes. Participants hone interoperability, operational coordination, and combat readiness through rigorous drills.

Counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism form the core focus. Joint manoeuvres sharpen tactical prowess, small-team tactics, and mission planning, addressing transnational threats head-on.

Troops exchange best practices and refine standard operating procedures. Combined planning sessions build mutual understanding, paving the way for seamless synergy in high-stakes environments.

“Ekuverin,” translating to “Friends” in Dhivehi, captures the exercise’s ethos of camaraderie. Day-to-day interactions among contingents reinforce bonds beyond the battlefield.

The platform extends to disaster-response scenarios, reflecting shared vulnerabilities to natural calamities in the region. Such versatility bolsters collective resilience.

Since its launch in 2009, Ekuverin has alternated between India and the Maldives. It has matured into a cornerstone of defence diplomacy, nurturing trust between these maritime neighbours.

The Ministry of Defence highlights Ekuverin 2025 as a testament to burgeoning ties. It reaffirms both nations’ dedication to peace, stability, and security in the Indian Ocean.

Regular joint exercises like this are indispensable for countering common threats. They elevate preparedness and streamline collective responses to crises.

India-Maldives defence links trace back decades, bolstered by maritime security pacts, capacity-building initiatives, and humanitarian aid. India recognised the Maldives soon after its 1965 independence, laying firm foundations.

The Maldives holds pride of place in India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy. This approach champions regional stability and prosperity through proactive engagement.

Ekuverin dovetails with India’s SAGAR vision—Security and Growth for All in the Region. Both countries emerge as pivotal guardians of Indian Ocean safety.

As the exercise nears completion, outcomes promise enhanced operational cohesion. Future iterations could incorporate emerging tech like drones or cyber defence, adapting to new realities.

This partnership arrives at a geopolitically sensitive juncture. With China’s naval forays and piracy risks, Indo-Maldivian drills signal resolve against disruptions.

MNDF’s reliance on India for training and equipment has grown. Exercises like Ekuverin bridge capability gaps, empowering the Maldives amid its strategic archipelago position.

India’s Garhwal Rifles bring battle-hardened expertise from border skirmishes and counter-insurgency ops. Their know-how enriches MNDF tactics tailored to island defence.

Coastal simulations test rapid deployment from sea to shore. These are crucial for securing atolls prone to smuggling or infiltration.

Jungle warfare modules address insurgency in verdant interiors. Semi-urban drills mimic hostage rescues or urban cordons, blending infantry with specialist skills.

Beyond drills, cultural exchanges build lasting rapport. Shared meals and briefings humanise the alliance, turning soldiers into enduring partners.

Ekuverin’s timing aligns with broader Indo-Pacific strategies. It counters narratives of faltering ties post-Maldives’ political shifts.

India’s aid during past Maldives crises—floods, tsunamis—cements goodwill. Military cooperation now fortifies that goodwill with hard power.

Looking ahead, Ekuverin could expand to tri-service formats, involving navies and air forces. This would mirror comprehensive threats in the maritime domain.

Ultimately, the exercise fortifies a bulwark for Indian Ocean stability. As friends train as one, India and the Maldives stand firmer against shared horizons.

Agencies

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Pakistan Pushes For A South Asian Bloc Without India; Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan And Even Maldives May Not Join

Pakistan is making a renewed push to challenge India’s dominant position in South Asian geopolitics by proposing a new regional bloc that excludes New Delhi.

This move, led by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, aims to replace the nearly defunct South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) with a more inclusive and functional grouping.

Pakistan’s initiative looks to build on the trilateral mechanism recently established with Bangladesh and China, with aspirations to bring other regional countries on board.

Despite Pakistan’s ambitions to shift regional alliances, experts remain sceptical about the feasibility of excluding India from South Asian cooperation. India’s economic size, population, and geopolitical influence dwarf those of Pakistan and other South Asian nations.

These realities make the prospect of a regional bloc without India hard to envision operationally, as countries in the region tend to rely heavily on New Delhi for economic connectivity, security coordination, and crisis management.

SAARC, established in 1985 as South Asia’s primary regional organisation, has largely stagnated in recent years due to political tensions, especially between India and Pakistan. The group comprises Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, with the objective of fostering economic growth and social development across the region.

However, hostile relations, particularly India’s objection to Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorism, have stalled meaningful cooperation. The 2016 SAARC summit scheduled to be held in Islamabad was cancelled after the Uri terrorist attack, cementing the organisation’s inactivity.

Given Pakistan’s strained relations with India, New Delhi has pivoted towards the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), which excludes Pakistan entirely. This shift indicates India’s pragmatic approach to regional collaboration, focusing on frameworks where it can lead without Pakistan’s involvement.

South Asia’s importance as a regional economic bloc cannot be overlooked. Home to over two billion people, the region is the most densely populated globally, yet intra-regional trade remains surprisingly low — only about 5% of total commerce.

The World Bank has noted that if regional barriers were reduced, trade among South Asian countries could potentially triple to $67 billion, highlighting a major untapped economic opportunity. Poor connectivity and political mistrust are key factors hindering this integration.

Pakistan’s attempt to create a new regional platform at this juncture seems more aspirational than practical. As noted by Lahore-based academic Rabia Akhtar, the idea communicates Islamabad’s desire to rethink regional cooperation beyond the deadlock of SAARC.

However, she emphasises that the success of this initiative depends heavily on whether regional players find genuine functional value in smaller, specialised groupings and on the political costs of joining such initiatives, especially when they might antagonise India.

Previous efforts by Pakistan and China to alter regional dynamics have met limited success. Expert Swaran Singh from Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi highlights India’s overwhelming demographic, economic, and military advantages, which position New Delhi as an indispensable regional power. He cautions that any South Asian cooperation framework that excludes India faces serious challenges in gaining traction.

Smaller South Asian countries, such as Nepal and Bhutan, have significant economic dependencies on India. Their export supply chains and access to markets, as well as critical support during emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic vaccine distribution, are deeply integrated with India.

This reliance reinforces the perception of India as a central actor in South Asian affairs, making exclusionary regional proposals by Pakistan difficult to implement realistically.

Another JNU academic, Shantesh Kumar Singh, underlines the importance of India maintaining its role as a responsible and engaged regional leader.

He argues that India’s proactive involvement is key to preventing fragmentation of regional associations like SAARC. Without India, such organisations risk becoming fragmented, underfunded, and susceptible to external influences, notably from China, which is expanding its strategic footprint in South Asia.

Ultimately, Pakistan’s new regional bloc proposal faces steep obstacles rooted in deep geopolitical realities. India's central role in the region’s political, economic, and security architecture is entrenched and broadly accepted.

While Pakistan seeks to promote inclusive, non-zero-sum regionalism, the exclusion of India contradicts the practical interdependencies and power dynamics that define South Asia. This makes the success of Islamabad’s vision unlikely, at least in the foreseeable future.

Based On NDTV Report

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