India and Myanmar on Thursday commenced their first bilateral Tri-Services Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise, ‘RAHAT MITRA’, in Chennai, marking a significant step towards strengthening defence cooperation and enhancing coordination in humanitarian and disaster response operations between the two neighbouring countries.
The maiden exercise is being conducted over two days, concluding on November 6. Centred on the theme ‘Together for Humanity, Stronger through Partnership’, it aims to deepen bilateral cooperation, build mutual trust and improve operational coordination between the armed forces of both nations.
More than 300 personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force of India and Myanmar are participating in the exercise. It provides a common platform for the defence forces of both countries to engage in professional exchanges, share operational experiences and strengthen interoperability in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations.
Coordinated under the aegis of the Indian Navy, Exercise RAHAT MITRA is expected to enhance the preparedness of both countries to respond collectively to humanitarian emergencies and natural disasters.
The inaugural exercise also represents an important milestone in the longstanding bilateral relationship between India and Myanmar, particularly in the area of defence and security cooperation.
The initiative reflects India’s commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and its broader strategic vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
Through the exercise, both countries have reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, promoting peace and stability, and extending humanitarian assistance during times of crisis.
The launch of RAHAT MITRA underscores the importance of coordinated disaster response capabilities and closer defence partnerships in addressing humanitarian challenges across the region.
