Why in the News?

The Indian Navy conducted the 3rd edition of MAHASAGAR Initiative, a high-level virtual interaction led by the Chief of Naval Staff.
- Theme: “Training Cooperation to Mitigate Common Maritime Security Challenges in IOR,” emphasizing the importance of training cooperation to address shared maritime challenges.

About MAHASAGAR Initiative:

	Details
Full Form	MAHASAGAR stands for “Maritime Heads for Active (MAHA) Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)” SAGAR Doctrine was culminated out of PM’s vision in 2015.
Symbolism	Translates to “vast ocean” in Hindi, symbolizing the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Launch	By Indian Navy in 2023 as part of India’s commitment to maritime security and regional cooperation. Held bi-annually.
Primary Focus	• Training Cooperation: Collaborative training efforts among IOR nations. • Capacity Building: Developing skilled manpower to address maritime security challenges.
Participating Nations	Countries bordering the Indian Ocean, include Bangladesh, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
Leadership	Chief of the Naval Staff of India leads the interactions.
Participants	Heads of Navies, Maritime Agencies, and Senior Leadership from each participating country.
Significance	Strengthens maritime security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region, emphasizing collaborative efforts and regional capacity building.

MAHASAGAR strengthens India’s maritime presence and supports its role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean.
By enhancing maritime cooperation, the initiative promotes peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region.
With shared security and collaboration, countries benefit from safer trade routes and regional economic growth.

[2017] Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):

1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.

2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime cooperation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2