INS Sarvekshak's Hydrographic Survey of Mauritius
The Indian Navy's ship, INS Sarvekshak, successfully completed a hydrographic survey in Mauritius, covering over 25,000 square nautical miles. The survey results, including the fair sheet, nautical charts, and equipment, were officially presented to the President of Mauritius, Dharambeer Gokhool.
Significance of the Survey
- Development and Planning:
- The new nautical chart will aid Mauritius in maritime infrastructure development, resource management, and coastal development planning.
- Partnership:
- This initiative underscores the longstanding partnership between India and Mauritius in promoting maritime development and regional cooperation.
Indian Navy's Hydrographic Assistance
- Indian Navy hydrographic vessels frequently assist countries with surveys of their exclusive economic zones (EEZs).
- Under the SAGAR initiative, the Navy has conducted joint surveys over 89,000 sq. km and produced 96 charts in five years.
- Efforts include capacity building and knowledge sharing through indigenously built survey ships.
India-Mauritius Defence Cooperation
- Extensive collaboration across various defence domains.
- Mauritius has an International Liaison Officer at the IFC-IOR in Gurugram.
- Radar centres in Mauritius are part of India's coastal radar surveillance system.
- Mauritius Police Force operates HAL-built helicopters and aircraft.
- India is enhancing capacity building assistance and increasing defence exports to littoral states in the Indian Ocean.