EXERCISE VARUNA 2022

EXERCISE VARUNA 2022- Relevance for UPSC Exam

GS Paper 2: Security- Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate.

The 20th edition of the Bilateral Naval Exercise between Indian and French Navies – ‘VARUNA’ is being conducted in the Arabian Sea from 30 Mar – 03 Apr 22.
Various units including ships, submarines, maritime patrol aircraft, fighter aircraft and helicopters of the two navies are participating in the Varuna 2022 exercise.

Background: EXERCISE VARUNA was initiated in 1993. However, the exercise was christened as ‘VARUNA’ in 2001 and has become a vital part of the India-France strategic bilateral relationship.
About: The EXERCISE VARUNA is a bi-lateral Naval Exercise between the Navies of France and India.
Frequency of VARUNA Exercise: It is conducted annually between Indian and French Navies.
Aim: VARUNA Exercise aims to develop interoperability between the two navies along with fostering mutual cooperation by learning from each other’s best practices to conduct joint operations.
Significance:
- VARUNA series of exercises continue to provide both the navies opportunities to learn from each other’s best practices.
- Exercise VARUNA enhances and hone both navies’ operational skills in maritime theatre, and augments inter-operability to undertake maritime security operations.
- VARUNA Exercise also demonstrates its commitment to promoting peace, security and stability in the region as an integrated force.
- The VARUNA exercise has been a principal driver for operational-level interactions between the two navies.
- Exercise VARUNA also underscores the shared commitment of both nations to the security, safety and freedom of the global maritime commons.

Other Indo-French Joint Exercises-
- Garuda (Air exercise): It is a bilateral exercise between the Indian and French Air Force.
- Shakti (Army exercise): It is a biennial military exercise conducted between India and France.

shivam