CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -21st EDITION OF INDIA FRANCE BILATERAL NAVAL EXERCISE ‘VARUNA’ – 2023. The 21st Edition of the Bilateral Naval Exercise between India and France – Exercise Varuna commenced on the Western Seaboard today, 16 Jan 23.

Detailed explanation-2: -The 20th edition of the bilateral naval exercise between the Indian and French Navies, ‘VARUNA’, was conducted in the Arabian Sea from 30th March to 3rd April 22.

Detailed explanation-3: -While the bilateral exercise between the two navies was initiated in 1993, it was christened “Varuna” in 2001 and has become a hallmark of the India-France strategic bilateral relationship.

Detailed explanation-4: -The exercise will be conducted over five days from 16 to 20 January 2023 and will witness advanced air defence exercises, tactical manoeuvres, surface firings, underway replenishment and other maritime operations.