🎬 MILAN Village: A Global Maritime Hub
The Indian Navy has formally inaugurated the MILAN Village at the Eastern Naval Command, Visakhapatnam, marking the commencement of the harbour phase of Exercise MILAN 2026. Inaugurated by Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, the village serves as a cultural and social convergence point for navies from across the globe, blending professional engagement with cultural diplomacy.
70+
Participating Nations
11 Days
Duration (Feb 15-25)
3 Events
Convergence (IFR, MILAN, IONS)
⚙️ Key Initiatives & Strategic Vision
The event is underscored by the theme "Camaraderie, Cooperation, Collaboration," aiming to project India as a Preferred Security Partner in the Indo-Pacific while showcasing its soft power.
🌏 Cultural Diplomacy
The MILAN Village is designed as an "experience zone" featuring Indian handicrafts, handlooms, and diverse cuisine, fostering bonds beyond military drills.
⚓ Operational Scope
The exercise includes complex maritime operations such as Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Air Defence, and Search & Rescue, enhancing interoperability among friendly navies.
🌊 MAHASAGAR Vision
MILAN 2026 is an operational manifestation of PM’s vision: Maritime Awareness, Holistic Advancement, Security And Growth for All in the Region.
📽️ Top Highlights & Events
Visakhapatnam is currently the epicenter of India's maritime outreach, hosting a triad of major naval engagements.
- 🏆 The Trinity of Events: The city is hosting the International Fleet Review (IFR), Exercise MILAN, and the IONS Conclave of Chiefs in close succession.
- 🎤 Cultural Showcase: The village features live folk dances, vocal performances, and stalls for naval souvenirs, acting as a window to India's artistic legacy.
- 🎨 Strategic Objective: To strengthen Maritime Domain Awareness and collective response capabilities for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
📚 Prelims Quiz Corner
1. Where was the 'MILAN Village' recently inaugurated as part of Exercise MILAN 2026?
Answer: C
2. What is the central theme of Exercise MILAN 2026?
Answer: B
📝 Mains Practice Q&A
Q1. "Exercise MILAN has evolved from a regional gathering to a global maritime convergence." Discuss the strategic significance of MILAN 2026 in the context of India's 'MAHASAGAR' vision and Indo-Pacific stability. (GS-2: International Relations) - 250 Words
Model Answer Synopsis
Introduction
Introduce MILAN 2026 as a multilateral naval exercise hosting 70+ nations, signifying India's rising stature as a "Preferred Security Partner." Mention the inauguration of the MILAN Village as a symbol of soft power.
Strategic Significance
1. Operational Interoperability: Drills in Anti-Submarine Warfare and Air Defence enhance collective capability to secure global commons.
2. Diplomatic Outreach: Hosting IFR and IONS alongside MILAN demonstrates India's convening power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
3. Vision MAHASAGAR: It reinforces the principle of "Security and Growth for All in the Region" by promoting a rules-based maritime order.
2. Diplomatic Outreach: Hosting IFR and IONS alongside MILAN demonstrates India's convening power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
3. Vision MAHASAGAR: It reinforces the principle of "Security and Growth for All in the Region" by promoting a rules-based maritime order.
Soft Power Component
The "MILAN Village" facilitates cultural exchange, moving beyond military logic to build trust and "Camaraderie" among diverse nations.
Conclusion
MILAN 2026 acts as a bulwark for a free and inclusive Indo-Pacific, effectively balancing hard military power with the soft power of cultural diplomacy.
Source Information: PIB Release ID: 2228574 (Feb 16, 2026)
Ministry of Defence, Government of India
