News: The issue is in the news after India clarified its non-participation in the BRICS Plus Naval Exercise held off South Africa’s coast.
About BRICS Plus Naval Exercise 2026
- It was a joint naval drill conducted under the BRICS Plus framework from January 9 to January 16, 2026.
- Focused: The exercise focused on maritime security, counter-terrorism, anti-sea strike operations, and search and rescue activities.
- Theme: The theme was “Joint Actions to Ensure the Safety of Key Shipping Lanes and Maritime Economic Activities”.
- Host nation: It was hosted by South Africa.
- The exercise took place off the coast of Simon’s Town, South Africa.
- Participating countries: China, Russia, Iran, and the UAE participated in the naval exercise.
- Observer countries: Brazil, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Indonesia attended the exercise as observers.
- Non-participants: India opted out of the drills and declined even observer status.
- Key features
- It was not a regular or institutionalised BRICS activity and was conducted as a South African initiative, with participation from only some BRICS members..
- The exercise was projected as cooperation among Global South nations.
