Kamal Ghorui
To boost maritime relations, India has handed over to Sri Lanka two personal watercraft (PWC) to further enhance Sri Lankan Coast Guard’s (SLGC) capabilities in near shore search and rescue, the Indian high commission in Sri Lanka said on Sunday.On the handover of the two vessels, the Indian embassy said, “GoI assistance enhances Sri Lanka Coast Guard capability in near-shore Search and Rescue (SAR). Defence Adviser Indian SL handed over two PWCs along with safety gears to director operations at SLCG Headquarters in Mirissa.”To enhance interoperability, the two navies also held diving exercise ‘IN-SLN DIVEX 2026’ in Colombo from April 21-27. The exercise, in which INS Nireekshak participated, brought together diving teams from the two navies to undertake a series of specialised underwater operations and training drills.Commanding Officer Commander of INS Nireekshak Cdr Sailesh Tyagi held discussions with Sri Lanka’s Rear Admiral SJ Kumara, Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Area, on issues of mutual interest and avenues for deeper cooperation. Beyond operational engagements, the visit included social interactions, sports fixtures and joint yoga sessions designed to foster camaraderie and goodwill between the personnel of both navies.As part of humanitarian outreach, India will hand over two BHISM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita & Maitri) cubes to Sri Lankan authorities. These portable medical units are equipped to handle up to 200 emergency cases and come with essential medicines and basic surgical capabilities. The Indian Navy will also provide 50,000 rounds of 9 mm ammunition to the Sri Lankan Navy.
