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Source — Source: PIB ///Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-01-22 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — International Relations, Science & Technology, Security ///Source — Source: PIB ///Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-01-22 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — International Relations, Science & Technology, Security ///

Source: PIB · GS Paper 2

INS Sagardhwani Flags Off for Sagar Maitri V

The Indian Navy has dispatched INS Sagardhwani for the fifth edition of the Sagar Maitri (SM‑5) mission, a joint Navy‑DRDO initiative aimed at oceanographic research and underwater domain awareness. The mission underscores India's strategic push for maritime security, scientific cooperation with Indian Ocean Rim (IOR) nations, and the operationalisation of the MAHASAGAR vision.

2026-01-22

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Source: PIB

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Key Facts and Data Points

Vessel: INS Sagardhwani, a marine acoustic research ship designed by NPOL, Kochi and built by GRSE, Kolkata.
Mission: Sagar Maitri V (SM‑5) launched from Southern Naval Command, Kochi on 22 Jan 2026.
Objective: Collection of oceanographic and acoustic data; capacity building with IOR countries; enhancement of Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA).
Historical Link: Retraces routes of INS Kistna from the 1962‑65 International Indian Ocean Expedition.
Programme: Joint Navy‑DRDO initiative under the broader MAHASAGAR framework (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).

Background and Context

Sagar Maitri (SM): Established to foster scientific collaboration and maritime research among Indian Ocean Rim nations. It integrates the MAITRI component (Marine & Allied Interdisciplinary Training and Research Initiative) for long‑term joint research.
DRDO’s Role: Provides technological support for underwater acoustic sensors, data analytics, and contributes to UDA – a critical element of maritime domain awareness.
Strategic Importance: Enhances India's presence in the Indian Ocean, supports blue‑economy initiatives, and counters non‑traditional security threats (e.g., submarine intrusion, illegal fishing).

Significance for India / Governance / Policy

Maritime Security: Strengthens India's ability to monitor the underwater domain, crucial for safeguarding sea‑lines of communication (SLOCs).
Science & Technology Diplomacy: Offers a platform for scientific exchange, reinforcing India's soft power in the IOR region.
Policy Alignment: Aligns with the National Maritime Security Strategy and the Indian Ocean Rim Initiative, promoting collaborative research and capacity building.

Related Constitutional / Legal Provisions

Article 246 (Union List) – Defence: Empowers the Union to conduct naval research and operations.
International Law: Supports India’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) for marine scientific research.

References

PIB Release (22 Jan 2026)
Drishti IAS – SAGAR MAITRI