The 14th edition of the annual bilateral military exercise ‘Ekuverin’ between India and Maldives has commenced in Thiruvananthapuram.
This joint military training is being conducted from 2 December to 15 December 2025.
The exercise reflects the long-term defence partnership of both countries and their shared commitment towards regional security.
In this exercise, soldiers from the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) are jointly participating.
The main objective is to strengthen cooperation in Counter-Terrorism (CT) and Counter-Insurgency (CI) operations.
The training is being provided in jungle, semi-urban and coastal areas in accordance with potential real military scenarios.
In this year’s exercise, special emphasis is being laid on the use and integration of modern defence technologies.
This exercise plays an important role in enhancing interoperability, that is, joint operational capability between the two armies.
Through joint drills and experience sharing, tactical efficiency, coordination ability and military friendship are being further deepened.
The word ‘Ekuverin’ means “friend” in the Dhivehi language, emphasizing the closeness of the two countries.
‘Ekuverin’ is a major bilateral military exercise hosted alternately by India and Maldives.
This exercise provides a strong foundation not only for India-Maldives defence cooperation but also for other exercises such as ‘Ex Ekatha’ and ‘Dosti’ with Sri Lanka.
It should be remembered that the trilateral exercise between India, Maldives and Sri Lanka is named “Dosti”.
This exercise supports India’s Neighborhood First policy and the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.
India is the major security partner of Maldives in the Indian Ocean region.
This joint military training strengthens maritime security, counter-terrorism cooperation and regional stability.
