Mission Sagar

Published: 25th May, 2020

Context

Government of India launched Mission Sagar to provide assistance to Indian Ocean Region Nations amid the coronavirus crisis.

About

As part of the 'Mission Sagar' program, this deployment is in line with India’s role as the first responder in the region and builds on the excellent relations existing between these countries to battle the COVID-19 pandemic and its resultant difficulties.
The deployment is in consonance with the Prime Ministers vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region ‘SAGAR’ and highlights the importance accorded by India to relations with her neighbouring countries and further strengthens the existing bond.
The operation is being progressed in close coordination with Ministries of Defence and External Affairs.

What is SAGAR?

In 2015, India unveiled it's strategic vision for the Indian Ocean i.e. Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
It is an increasing recognition of the increasing importance of maritime security, maritime commons and cooperation.
The initiative is in line with the principles of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). The mission aims to
- to seek a climate of trust and transparency
- respect for international maritime rules and norms by all countries
- sensitivity to(towards) each other’s interests
- peaceful resolution of maritime issues
- increase in maritime cooperation

How will it be conducted?

As part of the Government of India outreach amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Indian Naval Ship Kesari has departed for Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar and Comoros, to provide Food Items, COVID related Medicines including HCQ Tablets and Special Ayurvedic Medicines with Medical Assistance Teams.
The Ship will deliver consignments of Covid related essential medicines to Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles and about 600 tonnes of food items to Maldives.
In addition, in the case of Mauritius, a special consignment of Ayurvedic medicines is also being sent
The consignments meant for Madagascar and Comoros also includes Hydroxychloroquine tablets, which have already been sent earlier to Mauritius, Maldives and Seychelles.

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