Exercise Surya Kiran, the 18th edition of the battalion-level joint military event between the armies of India and Nepal, will focus on enhancing operational preparedness, aviation aspects, medical training, and environment conservation. The annual training exercise, held alternatively in the two countries, will be conducted in Saljhandi of Nepal from December 31 to January 13.
The joint exercise aims to enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountains, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief under the United Nations Charter. Through various war games, both sides seek to improve their operational capabilities, refine their combat skills and strengthen their coordination to operate together in challenging scenarios.
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“The exercise will provide a platform for soldiers from India and Nepal to exchange ideas and experiences, share best practices and foster a deeper understanding of each other’s operational procedures,” the defence ministry said in a release.
This edition of Exercise Surya Kiran follows the visits by General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff to Nepal, and the visit by General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Army Staff of Nepali Army to India.
According to the ministry, the exercise signifies the strong bonds of friendship, trust, and common cultural linkages shared between the two countries. “The exercise will also achieve shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations between two friendly neighbours,” the ministry said.
The Indian Army contingent is being led by a Battalion from the 11th Gorkha Rifles, while the Nepal Army contingent will be represented by the Srijung Battalion.