New Delhi: India and Myanmar have commenced their first-ever bilateral Tri-Services Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise, ‘RAHAT MITRA’, in Chennai. The inaugural exercise began on November 5 and is being conducted over two days, concluding on November 6, 2026.
Centred on the theme ‘Together for Humanity, Stronger through Partnership’, the exercise aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation, build mutual trust and enhance coordination between the Defence Forces of the two neighbouring countries during humanitarian emergencies and natural disasters.
More than 300 personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force of India and Myanmar are participating in the maiden exercise.
RAHAT MITRA Exercise: Objectives and Key Highlights
Exercise RAHAT MITRA provides a common platform for the Defence Forces of India and Myanmar to engage in professional exchanges, share operational experiences and improve interoperability in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations.
The exercise focuses on enhancing the ability of the armed forces of both countries to coordinate their efforts during humanitarian crises and disaster response operations.
Key highlights of the exercise include:
- First bilateral Tri-Services HADR exercise: The maiden edition brings together the armed forces of India and Myanmar.
- Participation of over 300 personnel: Representatives from the Army, Navy and Air Force of both countries are taking part.
- Two-day exercise: The exercise is being conducted in Chennai from November 5 to 6, 2026.
- Focus on interoperability: It aims to improve coordination, share operational knowledge and strengthen disaster response capabilities.
- Joint humanitarian cooperation: The exercise promotes mutual trust and preparedness for responding to emergencies.
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Indian Navy Coordinates Inaugural RAHAT MITRA Exercise
Exercise RAHAT MITRA is being coordinated under the aegis of the Indian Navy. The initiative marks an important step towards strengthening defence cooperation between India and Myanmar.
By bringing together personnel from all three services of both countries, the exercise provides opportunities for professional interaction and the exchange of experiences in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
It is also expected to strengthen the preparedness of both countries to respond collectively to natural disasters and other humanitarian emergencies.
RAHAT MITRA Reflects India’s Neighbourhood First Policy
The inaugural exercise reflects India’s commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and its broader strategic vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
Through this initiative, India and Myanmar have reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional cooperation, peace and stability, and providing humanitarian assistance during times of crisis.
The exercise also highlights the importance of stronger defence partnerships and coordinated disaster response capabilities in addressing humanitarian challenges across the region.
India-Myanmar Defence Cooperation
The launch of RAHAT MITRA represents an important milestone in the longstanding bilateral relationship between India and Myanmar. The exercise is expected to further strengthen defence engagement, improve coordination between the armed forces and promote cooperation in humanitarian and disaster relief operations.
By conducting their first bilateral Tri-Services HADR exercise, both countries are taking a step towards building stronger regional disaster response capabilities and reinforcing their commitment to humanitarian cooperation.
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