India-Nepal joint military exercise begins in Uttarakhand
The 19th edition of the India-Nepal bilateral military exercise, ‘Suryakiran’, began in Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh on Tuesday with an aim to strengthen battalion-level synergy in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrain, and integrated ground-aviation operations, the defence ministry said.
The Indian contingent, consisting of 334 personnel, is being represented mainly by troops from the Assam Regiment, while the Nepal side is being represented by 334 troops from the Devi Datta Regiment. The aim of the exercise, which will conclude on December 8, is to jointly rehearse the conduct of sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate, the defence ministry said in a statement.
“The scope of the exercise is to strengthen battalion-level synergy in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrain, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), medical response, environmental conservation and integrated ground-aviation operations,” it said.
This edition of the exercise will focus on incorporating niche and emerging technologies, including Unmanned Aerial Systems, drone-based ISR, AI-enabled decision support tools, unmanned logistic vehicles and armoured protection platforms, enabling both the armies to refine and adapt tactics, techniques and procedures for operating in a counter-terrorism environment aligned to prevailing global dynamics.
Collective efforts will focus on achieving an enhanced level of interoperability among the troops and reducing the risk of life and property loss while keeping the interests and agenda of the UN at the forefront during peacekeeping operations, the ministry said.
Both sides will exchange views and practices of joint drills on a wide spectrum of combat skills.
Sharing of best practices will further enhance the level of defence cooperation between the two armies. The exercise will also foster strong bilateral relations between the two neighbouring nations, the statement said.
