India and Myanmar have launched their inaugural tri-services HADR exercise, Rahat Mitra, in Chennai, involving over 300 defence personnel. The two-day exercise focuses on strengthening disaster response coordination, military cooperation, interoperability and humanitarian assistance across land, sea and air.
More than 300 defence personnel from India and Myanmar are participating in the inaugural India-Myanmar Tri-Services Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise Rahat Mitra, which commenced in Chennai on November 5. The two-day military exercise, being conducted under the aegis of the Indian Navy, aims to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and improve coordination between the armed forces of both countries during disaster situations.
The Indian Navy announced the commencement of the exercise through a post on social media platform X, describing its theme as “Together for Humanity, Stronger Through Partnership – RAHAT MITRA”. According to the Navy, the exercise brings together personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force of both countries to demonstrate coordinated responses to complex humanitarian emergencies.
Scheduled from November 5 to 6, the exercise features integrated manoeuvres across land, sea and air domains. It is designed to enhance operational coordination, promote mutual trust and strengthen the ability of the two countries to respond effectively to natural disasters and other humanitarian emergencies.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the inaugural exercise provides an important platform for Indian and Myanmar defence forces to engage in professional exchanges, share operational experiences and improve interoperability in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations.
The participation of more than 300 personnel from all three services reflects the shared commitment of both countries towards humanitarian cooperation and regional disaster response. Through joint training activities and practical demonstrations, the exercise seeks to improve preparedness for conducting relief, rescue and rehabilitation operations during emergencies.
During the exercise, the Indian Army showcased its HADR capabilities alongside the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force. Army personnel demonstrated the operational capabilities of Flood Relief Columns and Engineer Task Forces through a series of practical rescue and disaster-management activities.
According to the Public Relations Officer, Directorate of Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, Chennai, the demonstrations included rescue operations, dewatering activities and bridge-laying operations to restore connectivity in disaster-affected areas.
These activities highlighted the importance of coordinated military operations in responding to floods and other natural disasters, particularly when essential infrastructure such as roads and bridges is damaged. The deployment of specialised engineering teams and flood relief units plays a significant role in restoring access to affected communities and supporting emergency response efforts.
The exercise also provides an opportunity for participating personnel to understand each other’s operational procedures, exchange technical knowledge and develop common approaches to humanitarian missions. Improved interoperability between the three services is expected to strengthen the effectiveness of joint disaster response operations.
The Ministry of Defence said Rahat Mitra reflects India’s commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the broader strategic vision of MAHASAGAR, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
The initiative also highlights India’s efforts to strengthen regional partnerships through cooperation in security, development and humanitarian assistance. By involving Myanmar’s defence personnel in joint disaster-response activities, the exercise aims to build greater trust and preparedness between the two neighbouring countries.
The ministry further stated that the exercise would reinforce the shared resolve of India and Myanmar to uphold peace and stability while extending humanitarian assistance during times of crisis.
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The inaugural edition of Rahat Mitra marks an important step in expanding India-Myanmar military engagement beyond conventional defence cooperation. Its focus on disaster preparedness, rescue operations and coordinated relief efforts highlights the growing importance of regional collaboration in addressing natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.
With participation from all three services of both countries, the exercise is expected to strengthen professional relations, improve operational readiness and establish a stronger foundation for future humanitarian cooperation between India and Myanmar.
