India has reaffirmed its strategic commitment to maritime cooperation and regional security with the launch of the second edition of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative. This reflects the significance of cooperation among nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The initiative was led by the Indian Navy, which emphasised the joint security framework and capacity-building partnership with states in the region.
IOS SAGAR 2026 commenced on 16th March. Navy personnel from 16 countries of the Indian Ocean region participated in the initiative. These nations are also part of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). It is a multilateral maritime forum established to enhance maritime cooperation among the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region. Recently, India has assumed the chairmanship of IONS.
The initiative builds on India’s vision of maritime cooperation, known as Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). India is also promoting the broader framework of MAHASAGAR – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions.
The programme involves structured training sessions in Kochi. The harbour training phase was joined by Navy personnel from nations such as the UAE, Mozambique, Tanzania, Mauritius, South Africa, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Thailand, Kenya and others. Here, participants were engaged in naval operations, seamanship practices and maritime security concepts. After the training sessions, the navy personnel will be jointly deployed in the operational activities in the Indian Ocean. The voyage will include maritime engagement activities and port visits. This will enable cooperation among navies and maritime agencies in the Indian Ocean. This aims to strengthen professional cooperation and deepen the shared understanding of maritime developments.
In the first edition of IOS SAGAR, which was held last year, the Indian naval ship INS Shunaya was deployed in the Southwest Indian Ocean Region. The ship has undertaken port calls at Dar-es-Salaam, Nacala, Port Louis, Port Victoria, and Male. Joint surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zones of Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius and Seychelles was also held.
IOS SAGAR reflects a diplomatic shift towards practical forms of maritime cooperation. It promotes operational integration for Navy personnel from different nations. This strengthens a long-term strategic partnership. This initiative is a significant maritime diplomatic instrument that promotes the Indian vision of a secure and inclusive Indian Ocean Region.
