The first team of Indian technical personnel has landed in the Maldives to take over the operation of aviation platforms, marking a crucial step in the agreed-upon withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the island nation. The move comes less than two weeks before the stipulated deadline of March 10.
According to a statement from the Maldives Defence Ministry on Monday, the Indian civilians are set to operate helicopters in Addu, the southernmost Atoll of the Maldives. The handover process is part of the agreement reached on February 2, where both countries decided that India would withdraw its military personnel between March and May.
The replacement team is expected to commence training exercises immediately and The Indian military personnel currently stationed in Addu will adhere to the agreed-upon departure date of March 10.
The withdrawal plan was a key outcome of the second meeting of the high-level core group between Indian and Maldivian officials in New Delhi on February 2. The Ministry of External Affairs had stated that the present personnel would be replaced by competent Indian technical personnel, who will continue to operate the two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft crucial for humanitarian and medical evacuation services in the Maldives.
The decision follows the inauguration of Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, who rode to power on the 'India Out' plank. In November, after taking office, Muizzu formally requested India to withdraw its military personnel, citing a strong mandate from the Maldivian people. The withdrawal of approximately 80 Indian military personnel is viewed as a diplomatic success for President Muizzu, widely perceived as a pro-China leader.
The establishment of the core group occurred after a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Muizzu during the COP28 summit in Dubai in December. The diplomatic efforts between the two nations have resulted in a carefully orchestrated transition, ensuring the continued operation of critical aviation platforms for medical emergency services in the Maldives.