India, Nepal Kick Off Joint Military Exercise SURYA KIRAN
New Delhi: A 334-strong Indian Army contingent departed for Nepal on Saturday to participate in the 18th edition of the Battalion Level Joint Military Exercise SURYA KIRAN. The exercise, scheduled to take place from December 31, 2024, to January 13, 2025, in Saljhandi, Nepal, aims to enhance interoperability and cooperation between the Indian and Nepalese armies.
The exercise will focus on enhancing operational preparedness, aviation aspects, medical training, and environment conservation in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountains, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief under the United Nations Charter.
Through these activities, the troops will enhance their operational capabilities, refine their combat skills, and strengthen their coordination to operate together in challenging situations.
Exercise SURYA KIRAN signifies the strong bonds of friendship, trust, and common cultural linkages that exist between India and Nepal. It sets the stage for a productive and professional engagement, showcasing the unwavering commitment of both nations towards a broader defense cooperation.
The exercise will also achieve shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations between the two friendly neighbors. This edition of Exercise SURYA KIRAN follows successful visits by General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff to Nepal, and the visit by General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Army Staff of Nepali Army to India.
