42nd edition of the Varuna bilateral naval exercise

Current Context: The 42nd edition of the Varuna bilateral naval exercise took place from January 4 to January 9, 2025, in Goa, India. The exercise involved the Indian Navy and the French Navy.

• Highlights:
• Participants: The French Carrier Strike Group, led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, and Indian Navy warships.
• Activities: The exercise included advanced naval operations such as tactical maneuvers, anti-submarine warfare exercises, flight exercises, air defense exercises, and live weapon firings.
• Objective: To enhance interoperability, foster mutual understanding, and strengthen Indo-French naval ties.
• Significance: This exercise is part of the broader Indo-French strategic partnership, which includes other exercises like Shakti (land) and Garuda (air).

Question:

1 Which two navies participated in the 42nd edition of the Varuna naval exercise?

• A) Indian Navy and the US Navy
• B) Indian Navy and the French Navy
• C) Indian Navy and the Russian Navy
• D) Indian Navy and the British Navy

Answer: B) The passage clearly mentions that the exercise involved the Indian Navy and the French Navy.