Mission Sagar-II: The Indian Coast Guard recently led the swift and decisive operation to rescue 27 Bangladeshi fishermen who were stranded on the fishing boat Sagar II in Indian waters. On April 4, 2024, the patrol ship ‘Amogh’ detected the distressed vessel drifting near the India-Bangladesh Maritime Boundary Line. Upon investigation, it was revealed that the fishing boat’s steering gear had malfunctioned for two days. The Indian Coast Guard interfered, ensuring the safe retrieval of all crew members.
Mission Sagar-II
About Mission Sagar-II
Under the initiative of ‘Mission Sagar-II’, the Government of India has extended aid to Friendly Foreign Countries to combat both natural calamities This mission follows the first ‘Mission Sagar’ conducted during the Covid-19 pandemic. 2020, emphasizing India’s commitment to regional cooperation and humanitarian assistance.
Assistance Delivery:
As part of Mission Sagar-II, the Indian Naval Ship Airavat has been deployed to deliver food aid to Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti, and Eritrea. This aid delivery emphasises India’s role as a first responder in the Indian Ocean region and aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
Strategic Importance:
The strategic significance of these island nations is highlighted by their location along key Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs). They serve as vital points for naval presence along international shipping routes, ensuring security during peacetime and offering strategic advantages during conflicts.
Regional Initiatives:
In addition to Mission Sagar-II, India has undertaken various regional initiatives to combat the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic and enhance cooperation:
India has emphasized the role of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in reducing the pandemic’s impact on vulnerable sections of society and promoting South-South cooperation.
India has contributed to the SAARC Covid-19 Emergency Fund and provided essential medical supplies to neighbouring countries.
Japan has proposed the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) in collaboration with India and Australia to address trade tensions and enhance supply chain resilience.
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) has launched ISA CARES to deploy solar energy in the healthcare sector.
SAGAR Vision:
Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) is India’s strategic vision for the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Through SAGAR, India aims to deepen economic and security cooperation with maritime neighbours, build maritime security capabilities, and ensure an inclusive and collaborative Indian Ocean region that respects international law.
Relevance of SAGAR:
SAGAR’s significance lies in its alignment with other maritime policies and initiatives such as the Act East Policy, Project Sagarmala, and India’s focus on the Blue Economy. Together, these initiatives bolster India’s maritime engagement and regional leadership in the Indian Ocean region.
What is Mission Sagar-II?
Mission Sagar-II is an initiative by the Government of India aimed at assisting Friendly Foreign Countries to combat natural calamities and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Which Indian Naval Ship is involved in Mission Sagar-II?
The Indian Naval Ship Airavat has been deployed to deliver food aid as part of Mission Sagar-II.
