DefenceFriday, 20 March 2026·https://testbook.com/current-affairs/20-march-2026-daily-current-affairs
Indian Navy launches second IOS SAGAR edition in March 2026 with 16 IONS member nations
The Indian Navy began the second edition of IOS SAGAR on March 16, 2026 to deepen maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On March 16, 2026, the Indian Navy commenced the second edition of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative with participation from 16 member nations of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium.
Key specifics
- The initiative aligns with India’s SAGAR vision, meaning Security and Growth for All in the Region.
- It also fits the expanded MAHASAGAR framework, described as Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions.
- The programme enables naval personnel from friendly foreign countries to train and sail together aboard Indian Naval Ships.
- The first training phase begins at Kochi with naval operations and seamanship modules.
- India assumed the chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium in February 2026.
Exam lens
Question type: Defence and maritime cooperation, IOS SAGAR, 16 IONS nations, Kochi, February 2026 chairmanship; TNPSC may ask the expansion of SAGAR and the purpose of IOS SAGAR.