VARUNA 2022 | 01 Apr 2022

Why in News ?

The 20th edition of the Indian and French Navy bilateral exercise ‘VARUNA-2022’ is being conducted in the Arabian Sea.

  • It has become a vital part of the India-France strategic bilateral relationship.

What are the Key Points?

  • About:
    • The Indian and French Navies have been conducting bilateral maritime exercises since 1993. Since 2001, these exercises have been called ‘VARUNA’. This is an annual event.
    • These interactions further underscore the shared values as partner navies, in ensuring freedom of seas and commitment to an open, inclusive Indo-Pacific and a rules-based international order.
  • Other Indo-French Joint Exercises:
    • Desert Knight-21 and Garuda (Air exercise)
    • Shakti (Army exercise)

Source: PIB