Consider the following statement about MAHASAGAR:

1. It is initiative of the Indian Army

2. The maiden edition of the high-level virtual interaction MAHASAGAR was hosted on 29 November 2023

3. Full form of MAHASAGAR is Maritime Heads for Active Security And Growth for All in the Region

4. Its interaction theme was 'Collective Maritime Approach towards Countering Common Challenges'

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is: (c) Statement 2, 3 and 4

Explanation:
The MAHASAGAR initiative is a high-level virtual interaction led by the Indian Navy, not the Indian Army, making Statement 1 incorrect.
• Statement 2 is correct – The maiden edition was hosted on 29 November 2023.
• Statement 3 is correct – MAHASAGAR stands for “Maritime Heads for Active Security And Growth for All in the Region”.
• Statement 4 is correct – The theme was ‘Collective Maritime Approach towards Countering Common Challenges’, emphasizing regional cooperation and maritime security.

Information Booster:
• The event was hosted by the Indian Navy Headquarters as a multilateral engagement platform.
• MAHASAGAR aims to strengthen regional maritime cooperation among Indian Ocean littoral states.
• It aligns with India’s broader initiative: Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
• The interaction focuses on countering maritime threats, enhancing interoperability, and joint collaboration.
• Naval chiefs and maritime heads from over 30 friendly countries participated.
• The interaction fosters trust and transparency in Indo-Pacific maritime governance.