The eighth edition of EKUVERIN, 14 day long Indo Maldives joint military exercise commenced in the Maratha Light Infantry Regimental centre, Belagavi with a grand opening ceremony on 15 Dec 2017.
The opening ceremony commenced with smart contingents of Indian Army being represented by 5/8th GORKHA RIFLES and Maldivian National Defence forces marching into the Talekar parade ground of the regimental centre.
The parade paid respects to their respective National Flags and National Anthems before being formally reviewed by Chief Guest Brig Govind Kalwad, Commandant Maratha Centre. The Commandant in his address welcomed the Maldivian army contingent to India and exhorted them to take full advantage of the fortnight long joint exercise duration. He wished both the contingents good luck to train hard so as to enhance interoperability and bonhomie between both armies.
The opening ceremony also featured flypast by two helicopters of Army Aviation, Pipe Band display by 5/8th Gorkha Rifles band and courageous display of Ghatka martial arts by valiant soldiers of Bombay Sappers, Kirkee.