CHAKRAVAT 2023

October 10, 2023

The Annual Joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Exercise (AJHE) has emerged as a pivotal outcome of the directive set forth during the Combined Commanders’ Conference in 2015. Since its inception in 2015, this exercise, known as CHAKRAVAT, has evolved into a multi-agency initiative encompassing participation from various sectors, including all three Services, Paramilitary Forces, disaster response organizations, NGOs, academic institutions, and international bodies. The upcoming 2023 edition promises to further enhance national-level synergies among stakeholders and welcomes participation from eight countries within the Indian Ocean Region.

Interagency Collaboration

AJHE is a testament to the collaborative spirit of India’s disaster response efforts. Involving the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, Paramilitary Forces, and a spectrum of disaster response organizations, NGOs, and academic institutions, it embodies a unified approach to tackling humanitarian crises and natural disasters.

Hosted by the Indian Navy in 2023

This year, the exercise is hosted by the Indian Navy in the serene coastal setting of Goa, scheduled from October 9th to 11th. The rotational leadership of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force in conducting AJHE exemplifies the cohesive commitment to disaster preparedness.

SAGAR: A Vision for All

The exercise aligns seamlessly with India’s vision for the oceans – SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region). Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations are a critical component of the Indian Navy’s benign role in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), especially in light of the increasing vulnerability due to climate change.

India as the ‘First Responder’

The evolving challenge posed by climate change is exacerbated by the limited capacity of littoral IOR states to address this growing threat. Consequently, the Indian Armed Forces have frequently been called upon to provide assistance to neighboring nations and partners in the IOR, reinforcing India’s commitment to being the ‘First Responder’ in the region.

AJHE-23: Comprehensive Approach

AJHE-23 spans three days, encompassing a seminar, a Table-Top Exercise, and a Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration. Numerous national agencies, including the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and others, will participate.

Key Seminar Topics

The seminar on October 9, 2023, will delve into essential topics such as “Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction: Practical Solution,” “Disaster Response in IOR: A Collaborative Approach,” and “NGO Collaboration in Disaster Reduction and Response: An Integrated Approach.” Expert discussions aim to drive practical solutions and strategies for disaster response.

Industrial Display and Capability Demonstration

On October 10th and 11th, an industrial display will feature various HADR equipment showcased by FICCI, Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, NDRF, and others. Additionally, a Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration on October 11th will spotlight drills on rescue and relief, emphasizing crucial lessons and nuances.

Symbolism in the Logo

The logo for this year’s exercise symbolizes unity and collaboration, featuring crests and logos of participating agencies and flags of nations intertwined into a single entity. This represents the core principle that Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief hinge on joint and integrated action by all participating agencies.

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