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Context

Indian Navy is all set to conduct the 12th edition of the multilateral naval exercise MILAN from 19th to 27th February, 2024

Details

MILAN 2024

• MILAN 2024 is a multinational naval exercise hosted by the Indian Navy.
• It is a biennial congregation of navies conducted by the Indian Navy since 1995 at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and later biennially on the mainland, which showcases India's naval strength. It is a demonstration of India's commitment to promoting maritime cooperation and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
• The 2024 event is the 12th edition of the MILAN exercises.
• It is being held in Visakhapatnam from February 19 to 27, aiming to provide a collective viewing experience and scenic shore side activities for the public.
• Participating Nations: Delegations from nearly 50 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, Oceania, North and South America have confirmed joining, making it historically the largest MILAN exercise yet in terms of participation. 15 foreign naval ships and maritime patrol aircrafts would also be part of sea drills.

Objectives  

• The objectives of MILAN include fostering camaraderie, cohesion, and collaboration among participating navies, enhancing maritime security, and providing a platform for professional and social interaction.

Activities  

• Activities include operational demonstrations, weapon firings, anti-submarine warfare drills, cultural exchanges, professional expertise sharing, and social events.

Significance  

• MILAN 2024 is significant as it exemplifies the collective effort towards secure and safe maritime boundaries and reflects India’s growing importance in the Indo-Pacific region. It serves as an avenue for addressing common challenges and strengthening ties among participating nations.

Vision  

• India’s vision for MILAN 2024 is rooted in the concept of 'SAGAR'—Security and Growth for All in the Region. This aligns with India’s broader geopolitical vision for maritime cooperation and inclusive growth in the Indo-Pacific.

MILAN 2024 relate to India's G20 Presidency theme

• MILAN 2024 reflects India’s G20 Presidency theme, ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, which translates to ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’. It emphasizes global kinship and the collective pursuit of peace and prosperity.
• The theme 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' influences MILAN 2024 by encouraging participating nations to view themselves as part of a global family, fostering unity, and working together towards a sustainable and peaceful future.
• India's G20 Presidency potentially elevates the prominence of MILAN 2024, highlighting the country's role in global governance, especially in maritime security and cooperation.

Significance of the 'SAGAR' initiative

'SAGAR' is an initiative that underscores India’s commitment to ensuring security, stability, and economic prosperity for all countries in the Indian Ocean Region, reflecting a cooperative and inclusive approach to regional issues.

PRACTICE QUESTION Which of the following statements accurately describes the MILAN Exercise 2024? MILAN Exercise 2024 is a joint military exercise between NATO and ASEAN countries aimed at enhancing maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. MILAN Exercise 2024 is an annual cybersecurity simulation conducted by the United Nations to test the resilience of global digital infrastructure. MILAN Exercise 2024 is a biennial naval exercise hosted by the Indian Navy, promoting cooperation and interoperability among navies of the Indo-Pacific region. MILAN Exercise 2024 is a humanitarian mission led by the European Union to provide aid and assistance to countries affected by natural disasters in the Mediterranean region. Answer 3