PolitySource: The Hindu
INS Nireekshak Deployed for India-Sri Lanka DIVEX 2026
Thursday, 23 April 2026
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The Indian Navy's INS Nireekshak has been deployed to Colombo for the India–Sri Lanka Diving Exercise (DIVEX 2026), showcasing India's commitment to maritime security and regional cooperation. This is crucial for UPSC aspirants focusing on GS Paper 2 and GS Paper 3. Last Updated: 23-04-2026
Key Facts About INS Nireekshak and DIVEX 2026
- INS Nireekshak is a Dive Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel of the Indian Navy, operational since 1989.
- The vessel was built by Mazagon Shipbuilders in 1985 and commissioned in 1995.
- It holds the national record for the deepest dive at 257 metres.
- DIVEX 2026 is the fourth edition of the India–Sri Lanka Diving Exercise.
- The exercise aims to enhance operational cohesion and maritime security cooperation.
- Under the MAHASAGAR vision, the exercise promotes regional security and growth.
- Two BHISM cubes are presented under the Aarogya Maitri programme to aid in disaster resilience.
- A 5-year MoU signed in April 2025 strengthens India-Sri Lanka defence ties.
India's Strategic Maritime Cooperation
The deployment of INS Nireekshak for DIVEX 2026 underscores India's strategic maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. This aligns with India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, enhancing regional security and economic growth. India's proactive humanitarian outreach, as seen in the MV XPress Pearl disaster and Operation Sagar Bandhu, highlights its role as a key regional player.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 2: International Relations - India’s bilateral relations with Sri Lanka.
- GS Paper 3: Security - Maritime security and strategic partnerships.
- Prelims: Questions on INS Nireekshak, DIVEX, and the MAHASAGAR vision.
- Mains: Analytical themes on India’s maritime strategy and regional cooperation.
- Essay Paper: Topics on regional security dynamics and India’s foreign policy.
FAQ Section
- What is INS Nireekshak?
INS Nireekshak is a Dive Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel of the Indian Navy, operational since 1989 and known for its deep-sea diving capabilities. - Why is DIVEX 2026 important?
DIVEX 2026 is crucial for enhancing maritime security cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, promoting regional stability and operational interoperability. - What are the key features of the India-Sri Lanka MoU?
The MoU signed in April 2025 institutionalizes a framework for joint exercises, maritime surveillance, and defence industry collaboration, strengthening strategic ties.
Detailed Coverage
- INS Nireekshak deployed for DIVEX 2026 in Colombo.
- Focus on enhancing operational cohesion and interoperability.
- Supports India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy.
- Presents BHISM medical units under Aarogya Maitri.
- BHISM cubes manage up to 200 emergency cases.
- INS Nireekshak operational since 1989, built by Mazagon Shipbuilders.
- Holds national record for deepest dive at 257 metres.
- 5-year MoU signed in April 2025 for deeper military engagement.
- Covers joint exercises and maritime surveillance.
- Sri Lanka committed to not using territory against India.
- Regular exercises like SLINEX and MITRA SHAKTI enhance interoperability.
- India as a first responder in humanitarian crises.
- Assisted during the 2021 MV XPress Pearl disaster.
- Demonstrates India's commitment to maritime security.
- Strengthens regional cooperation with Sri Lanka.
Polity