Exercise INDRA

05.04.2025

Exercise INDRA

Why in the news?                        

India and Russia have commenced a six-day naval exercise, 'Indra', off the coast of Chennai, involving sophisticated maritime drills and live weapon firings.

About Exercise INDRA:

• It is an India - Russia bilateral naval exercise.
• Since its inception in 2003, Exercise Indra has epitomised the long-term strategic relationship between the Indian and Russian navies.
• The exercise has evolved into a symbol of maritime cooperation, showcasing the two nations' commitment to enhancing naval interoperability and operational synergy.
• INDRA 2025:
• It is the 14th edition of the exercise.
• The exercise is being conducted in two phases: Harbour phase at Chennai and Sea phase in the Bay of Bengal.
• The Harbour Phase included an opening ceremony, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), reciprocal visits, sports fixtures, and pre-sail briefings between personnel from both navies.
• The sea phase of the exercise will witness advanced naval drills, including tactical manoeuvres, live weapon firings, anti-air operations, underway replenishment, helicopter cross-deck landings, and exchange of sea riders.
• It is witnessing participation of Russian naval ships -- Pechanga, Rezkiy, and Aldar Tsydenzhapov.
• The Indian Navy has deployed its warships Rana, Kuthar, and maritime patrol aircraft P8l.

                                                           Source: The Economic Times

Consider the following statements regarding Exercise INDRA, recently seen in the news:

Statement-I: It is an India - Russia bilateral naval exercise.

Statement-II: The first edition of the exercise was held in 2024.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

A.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I.

B.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I.

C.Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect.

D.Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct.

 Answer C