International 22 October 2026
Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron Ships Arrive in Maldives
Why in the News?
Ships of the Indian Navy’s **First Training Squadron (1TS)** — **INS Tir**, **INS Sujata**, and Indian Coast Guard Ship **Sarathi** — arrived off Malé, Maldives, on October 21 as part of their Long Range Training Deployment.
Key Features / Major Points:
- Warm Welcome: Received a warm reception from the Maldives National Defence Force (**MNDF**), showcasing close bilateral maritime ties and regional stability efforts.
- Strategic Interaction: Senior Officer of 1TS called on India’s High Commissioner to the Maldives, **G Balasubramaniam**, the Chief of Defence Force (MNDF), and the Commandant of the MNDF Coast Guard to deepen multifaceted maritime cooperation.
- Training Exchange: Trainees of the 1TS visited the **Girifushi Training Centre**. The port call features cross-deck visits, sports fixtures, and joint outreach activities to boost camaraderie.
- MAHASAGAR Vision: Aligned with India's regional vision of **MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions)** to build mutual operational capability and safety in the Indian Ocean Region.
Static GK Facts:
- Capital of Maldives: Malé | Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa.
- President of Maldives: Mohamed Muizzu.
- Chief of the Naval Staff (India): Admiral Krishna Swaminathan.
- Bilateral Exercises: *Exercise Ekuverin* (Army) and *Exercise Ekatha* (Navy/Naval Commando) are conducted between India and Maldives.
- Geographical Boundary: The **8 Degree Channel** separates the Indian island of Minicoy from the Maldives.
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Q: Which ships of the Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS) visited Malé, Maldives in October 2026?
A: INS Tir, INS Sujata, and ICGS Sarathi
Q: What is the full form of the MAHASAGAR vision initiated for regional maritime cooperation?
A: Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions
Q: Which geographical channel separates the Maldives from India's Minicoy Island?
A: 8 Degree Channel
Q: What is the official currency of the Maldives?
A: Maldivian Rufiyaa
#IndianNavy #Maldives #1TS #INSTir #MAHASAGAR #MaritimeSecurity #CurrentAffairs #StaticGK