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India and Mauritius held a joint coordination meeting onboard INS Sarvekshak to initiate a Joint Hydrographic Survey aimed at enhancing navigational safety in Mauritian waters. This collaboration, shared by the Indian Navy on Sunday, marks a significant step in strengthening the maritime relationship between the two nations.
Key Participants and Stakeholders
The meeting involved officials from both countries, including representatives from the Ministry of Housing and Lands, the Mauritius Hydrographic Service, and the Oceanographic Institute. These stakeholders are pivotal in ensuring the success of the survey and the broader objectives of maritime safety.
Harbour Training and Cultural Engagement
In addition to the technical discussions, the Indian Navy conducted harbour training for National Coast Guard (NCG) personnel. This hands-on training is designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of the local personnel. A friendly volleyball match was also organized, fostering camaraderie and goodwill between the two countries. This cultural engagement added a personal touch to the professional collaboration.
INS Sarvekshak’s Arrival and Welcome
INS Sarvekshak, the Indian Navy’s hydrographic survey ship, arrived at Port Louis, Mauritius, on December 26, to begin the joint hydrographic survey. Upon its arrival, the ship was warmly welcomed by Anurag Srivastava, the High Commissioner of India to Mauritius; Captain C.G. Binoop, Commandant of the Mauritius National Coastguard; and other military and civil dignitaries.
Survey and Collaboration Activities
The visit commenced with a preliminary survey coordination meeting with the Hydrographic Survey Unit of Mauritius. During its stay, INS Sarvekshak will engage in various activities, including technical knowledge exchange, professional interactions, and hydrography training sessions. These engagements are vital for enhancing Mauritius’ maritime capabilities.
Survey’s Impact on Mauritius
The joint hydrographic survey will play a key role in assisting Mauritius with maritime infrastructure development, resource management, and coastal development planning. The findings from the survey are expected to significantly improve the country’s maritime safety and development strategies.
Strengthening Maritime Partnership
This visit is a testament to the strong maritime partnership between India and Mauritius. It highlights India’s vision of SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region), a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing security and growth in the Indian Ocean region. The activities conducted during the visit align with the broader goal of deepening bilateral ties and fostering mutual cooperation in maritime affairs.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What was the primary objective of the joint hydrographic survey conducted by India and Mauritius?
- A) To enhance maritime security in Indian waters
- B) To enhance navigational safety in Mauritian waters
- C) To develop new naval ships
- D) To conduct environmental studies
- Answer: B) To enhance navigational safety in Mauritian waters
- Which ship from the Indian Navy participated in the joint hydrographic survey?
- A) INS Vikramaditya
- B) INS Sarvekshak
- C) INS Arihant
- D) INS Kolkata
- Answer: B) INS Sarvekshak
- Who welcomed the INS Sarvekshak upon its arrival in Mauritius?
- A) Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- B) Anurag Srivastava, the High Commissioner of India to Mauritius
- C) The President of Mauritius
- D) The Prime Minister of Mauritius
- Answer: B) Anurag Srivastava, the High Commissioner of India to Mauritius
- What type of cultural activity was organized during the visit of INS Sarvekshak?
- A) A traditional dance performance
- B) A friendly volleyball match
- C) A cooking competition
- D) A musical concert
- Answer: B) A friendly volleyball match
- Which strategic initiative reflects India’s vision for enhancing security and growth in the Indian Ocean region?
- A) Act East Policy
- B) SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region)
- C) Look West Policy
- D) Blue Economy Strategy
- Answer: B) SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region)