In News:

India has reinforced its maritime diplomacy and regional security engagement with the commencement of the second edition of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative on 16 March 2026. The initiative reflects India’s evolving role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

About IOS SAGAR Initiative

The Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR is a maritime security cooperation programme aimed at enhancing collaboration among Indian Ocean nations.

• It enables naval personnel from friendly foreign countries to train and sail together onboard an Indian Naval Ship.
• It is conducted under the broader vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
• It also aligns with the expanded framework of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions).

Institutional Context

• The initiative is linked to the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), a key multilateral naval cooperation platform.
• India assumed the chairmanship of IONS in February 2026, enhancing its leadership role in regional maritime governance.
• The current edition includes participation from 16 IONS member nations.

Key Features of IOS SAGAR

1. Unique Operational Engagement

• Combines training, joint sailing, and operational exposure
• Promotes interoperability and coordination among partner navies

2. Capacity Building and Training

• Initial phase includes professional training at Indian Naval establishments in Kochi
• Covers:
  • Seamanship practices
  • Maritime security concepts
  • Naval operations

3. Sea Deployment and Joint Operations

• Participants embark on an Indian Naval Ship
• Engage in:
  • Joint maritime operations
  • Real-time naval exercises
  • Shipboard activities

4. Maritime Engagement and Diplomacy

• Includes port visits and interactions with regional navies and agencies
• Facilitates:
  • Exchange of best practices
  • Strengthening of professional networks
  • Greater understanding of shared maritime challenges

In News:

In a significant step towards strengthening India’s renewable energy portfolio, the Union Cabinet has approved the Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme for FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31. The scheme aims to harness untapped hydro potential, particularly in remote and hilly regions, while promoting sustainable and decentralized energy generation.

About the SHP Development Scheme

The scheme focuses on the development of small hydro projects with capacities ranging from 1 MW to 25 MW, targeting an aggregate capacity of 1,500 MW across the country.

• Time Period: FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31
• Total Outlay: ?2,584.60 crore
• Target Investment Mobilisation: ~?15,000 crore
• Focus Areas: Hilly regions, North-Eastern states, and border districts

Key Features of the Scheme

1. Differential Central Financial Assistance (CFA)

• North-Eastern & Border Areas:
  • ?3.6 crore per MW or 30% of project cost
  • Maximum ?30 crore per project
• Other States:
  • ?2.4 crore per MW or 20% of project cost
  • Maximum ?20 crore per project

This differentiated support reflects regional disparities and aims to unlock hydro potential in geographically challenging areas.

2. Dedicated Funding Allocation

• ?2,532 crore earmarked for project development
• ?30 crore allocated for preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for ~200 future projects

This ensures both immediate implementation and a pipeline for long-term sectoral growth.

3. Promotion of Indigenous Manufacturing

• Mandates 100% domestic sourcing of plant and machinery
• Supports the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative
• Encourages growth of local manufacturing ecosystems in the renewable sector

4. Employment Generation

• Estimated 51 lakh person-days of employment during construction
• Additional long-term employment in operation and maintenance
• Focus on rural and remote job creation

5. Decentralised and Efficient Energy Generation

• SHPs are decentralised, reducing dependence on long transmission lines
• Leads to lower transmission losses and improved grid efficiency

Technological Approach: Run-of-the-River Projects

The scheme emphasises run-of-the-river technology, which:

• Generates power using natural river flow
• Avoids large dams and reservoirs
• Minimises ecological disruption