India, Maldives Begin 14th Edition of Exercise Ekuverin 2025

India and Maldives have commenced the 14th edition of their annual bilateral military exercise Ekuverin in Thiruvananthapuram. The training, scheduled from December 2 to 15, underscores the long-standing defence partnership between the two nations and their shared commitment to regional security.

Focus on Counterinsurgency and Counter-Terror Operations

The exercise brings together personnel from the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Forces to refine joint skills for counterinsurgency and counterterrorism missions. The training will cover semi-urban, jungle and coastal terrain, mirroring operational environments in the wider Indian Ocean Region. The integration of niche defence technologies forms a central component of this year’s drills.

Strengthening Interoperability and Best-Practice Sharing

Ekuverin aims to enhance interoperability through coordinated drills, tactical exchanges and cross-training modules. Both sides will share operational experiences and best practices to improve joint mission planning and execution. The exercise also reinforces camaraderie and trust between the two forces, which has been a hallmark of this long-running partnership.

Ekuverin in the Context of India-Maldives Defence Ties

Meaning “friends” in Dhivehi, Ekuverin is held alternately in India and Maldives. Along with the bilateral exercise Ekatha and the trilateral exercise Dosti with Sri Lanka, it forms a core part of the defence cooperation framework between the nations. These engagements reflect the historical ties rooted in cultural, linguistic and economic linkages.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Ekuverin 2025 is held in Thiruvananthapuram from December 2–15.
• The exercise trains for CI/CT operations in jungle, semi-urban and coastal terrain.
• “Ekuverin” means “friends” in Dhivehi.
• India and Maldives also conduct Ekatha (bilateral) and Dosti (trilateral with Sri Lanka).

Strategic Importance in the Indian Ocean Region

The exercise aligns with India’s Neighbourhood First policy and its SAGAR vision for a secure and prosperous Indian Ocean Region. India is widely regarded as a key security partner for Maldives, and the joint training further reinforces cooperative efforts to ensure maritime stability and regional safety.