Exercise Suryakiran: India–Nepal Joint Military Drill
Context
India and Nepal will conduct the nineteenth edition of Exercise Suryakiran from November 25 to December 8 in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. The exercise continues the tradition of annual bilateral military cooperation aimed at enhancing joint preparedness.
Nature of the Exercise
• A bilateral, annual, battalion-level military exercise.
• Conducted alternately by the Indian Army and the Nepal Army.
• Focused on strengthening joint operational readiness.
Participating Nations
• Indian Army.
• Nepal Army.
• Represents long-standing defence ties rooted in shared history.
Primary Aim
• Enhance synergy in jungle and mountain warfare.
• Strengthen counter-terrorism capabilities.
• Improve interoperability through modern technologies.
High-Altitude and Jungle Warfare Drills
• Conducted in mountainous and forested terrain.
• Addresses shared Himalayan security challenges.
• Prepares troops for terrain-specific operations.
Counter-Terrorism Training
• Cordon-and-search operations.
• Room intervention and close-quarter battle techniques.
• Surveillance methods and small-team tactics.
Use of Modern Technologies
• Drone-based reconnaissance and surveillance.
• Advanced communication systems.
• Medical evacuation and battlefield support tools.
Exchange of Best Practices
• Sharing of combat experiences and tactical insights.
• Exchange of survival skills and fieldcraft.
• Promotes standardised operational procedures.
Scale of Participation
• Over three hundred troops from each side.
• Includes medical, engineering, aviation, and high-altitude specialists.
• Ensures comprehensive multi-dimensional training.
Annual Alternating Format
• Conducted every year alternately in India and Nepal.
• Previous edition held in Saljhandi, Nepal in 2024–25.
• Ensures balanced engagement and continuity.
Strategic Significance
• Boosts defence cooperation and trust between India and Nepal.
• Enhances border security collaboration and counter-terror preparedness.
• Strengthens India’s neighbourhood-first approach.
Conclusion
Exercise Suryakiran is a key pillar of India–Nepal military cooperation, improving interoperability, tactical coordination, and preparedness for Himalayan security challenges. It contributes to regional stability, strengthens defence diplomacy, and supports India’s strategic priorities in its immediate neighbourhood.
Source : DD News