The 18th edition of the India-Nepal joint military exercise “Surya Kiran” has commenced at Saljhandi, Nepal, from December 29, 2024, to January 13, 2025. This annual exercise aims to enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrains, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief under the United Nations Charter.
Key Details
Exercise Location and Duration: Held at Saljhandi, Nepal, from December 29, 2024, to January 13, 2025.
Participating Forces: Indian Army’s Kumaon Regiment and Nepalese Army’s Tara Dal Battalion.
Focus Areas: Jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrains, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Historical Context
Previous Editions: The 17th edition was conducted in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, from November 24 to December 7, 2023, involving 334 personnel from the Nepali Army and a battalion from the Indian Army’s Kumaon Regiment.
Bilateral Relations: The exercise underscores the longstanding military cooperation between India and Nepal, reflecting shared security concerns and mutual commitment to regional stability.
Strategic Significance
Enhanced Interoperability: The exercise fosters better coordination between the two armies, essential for joint operations and disaster response.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties: Regular military engagements like “Surya Kiran” reinforce the defense relationship and mutual trust between India and Nepal.
Summary of the news
| Why in News | Key Points |
|---|---|
| India-Nepal Joint Military Exercise “Surya Kiran” Begins | 18th edition of “Surya Kiran” exercise between India and Nepal; held in Saljhandi, Nepal from Dec 29, 2024 to Jan 13, 2025. |
| Focus Areas | Counter-terrorism, jungle warfare, disaster relief, and enhancing interoperability between the Indian and Nepalese armies. |
| Objective | To improve coordination in joint operations, humanitarian aid, and regional peace efforts. |
| Participating Forces | Indian Army’s Kumaon Regiment, Nepalese Army’s Tara Dal Battalion. |
| Past Editions | Last year’s exercise (17th edition) was held in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, India. |
| Bilateral Relations | Reflects growing defense cooperation between India and Nepal, underscoring shared security concerns. |
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