An Indian Army contingent comprising 334 personnel departed for Nepal on Saturday to participate in 18th edition of battalion level joint military exercise Surya Kiran. The exercise will be conducted in Saljhandi, Nepal from December 31 to January 13, defence ministry said here adding it is an annual training event conducted alternatively in the two countries.
The Indian Army contingent is led by a battalion from the 11th Gorkha Rifles. The Nepal Army contingent will be represented by Srijung Battalion. The aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter terrorism operations in mountains, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief under United Nations Charter. The exercise will focus on enhancing operational preparedness, aviation aspects, medical training, and environment conservation.
Through these activities, the troops will enhance their operational capabilities, refine their combat skills and strengthen their coordination to operate together in challenging situations.
This edition of the exercise follows successful visits by Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi to Nepal, and the visit by General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Army Staff of Nepali Army to India.
