A 334-member contingent of the Indian Army has departed for Nepal to participate in the 18th edition of the Battalion-Level Joint Military Exercise Surya Kiran. Scheduled to be held from December 31 to January 13, the exercise will take place in Saljhandi, Nepal. This annual event alternates between the two nations and serves as a cornerstone of their strong defence collaboration.
A battalion from the 11th Gorkha Rifles will lead the Indian Army contingent, while Nepal’s Srijung Battalion will represent the Nepal Army.
According to an official statement from the Indian Army, “The aim of the joint exercise is to enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrain, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief under the United Nations Charter.”
The exercise will also focus on operational preparedness, aviation support, medical training, and environmental conservation. By engaging in these activities, troops from both nations will refine their combat skills, enhance their operational capabilities, and strengthen their coordination to tackle complex scenarios effectively.
This edition of Surya Kiran comes on the heels of successful exchanges between the two countries’ military leadership, including visits by General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Indian Army Staff, to Nepal, and General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Nepali Army Staff, to India. These engagements underscore the growing defence cooperation between the two neighbours.
The joint exercise provides an invaluable platform for Indian and Nepali soldiers to exchange ideas, share best practices, and gain insights into each other’s operational procedures. It also reaffirms the enduring ties of friendship, cultural connection, and mutual trust that bind India and Nepal.
Surya Kiran highlights both nations’ commitment toward broader defence cooperation and aims to achieve shared security objectives, fostering a stronger partnership and regional stability.
Team BharatShakti
