Exercise SURYA KIRAN

News: An Indian Army contingent has left for Nepal to take part in the 18th edition of  Battalion-Level Joint Military Exercise, SURYA KIRAN.

About Exercise SURYA KIRAN

• It is a bilateral joint military exercise between India and Nepal, conducted annually since 2011.
• The host nation alternates between India and Nepal.
• The 18th edition of the exercise will be held in Saljhandi, Nepal, from 31st December 2024 to 13th January 2025.
• The Indian Army contingent is being led by a battalion from the 11th Gorkha Rifles, while the Nepal Army contingent will be represented by the Srijung Battalion.
• Aim of the exercise:
  • To enhance interoperability in jungle warfare.
  • To train in counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrain.
  • To provide Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief under the United Nations Charter on peacekeeping operations.
• Significance:
  • Provides a platform for soldiers from India and Nepal to exchange ideas and experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s operational procedures.
  • Helps achieve shared security objectives and strengthens bilateral relations between the two friendly neighbors.