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.
