In News:

Indian Army Contingent Departs for 18th Edition of Exercise SURYA KIRAN (India-Nepal Joint Military Exercise).

Key Highlights:

• Event Overview:

• Name: 18th Edition of Battalion-Level Joint Military Exercise SURYA KIRAN.
• Dates: 31st December 2024 to 13th January 2025.
• Location: Saljhandi, Nepal.
• Participants: Indian Army (334 personnel, led by a Battalion from the 11th Gorkha Rifles) and Nepal Army (Srijung Battalion).

• Objective of Exercise:

• Enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrain, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) under the UN Charter.
• Focus on operational preparedness, aviation training, medical aspects, and environmental conservation.

• Key Features:

• Training Focus: Improving combat skills and coordination to operate together in challenging situations.
• Exchange of Ideas: Soldiers from both nations will share best practices, enhance mutual understanding of operational procedures.
• Strengthening Bilateral Relations: Reinforces strong bonds of friendship, cultural linkages, and defense cooperation between India and Nepal.

• Significance:

• Historical Context: Exercise held alternately in India and Nepal since 2011.
• Enhances Combat Readiness: Prepares both armies to address shared security challenges and improve operational capabilities.
• Diplomatic Engagement: Fosters a productive professional environment between India and Nepal.

• Recent Developments:

• The exercise follows visits by General Upendra Dwivedi (Indian Army Chief) to Nepal and General Ashok Raj Sigdel (Nepali Army Chief) to India, strengthening military ties.

• Previous Editions:

• 17th Edition: Conducted in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand (24th Nov - 7th Dec 2023).