India and African nations wrap up joint military exercise ‘AFINDEX-23’ in Pune

The Africa-India Field Training Exercise (AFINDEX-2023) concluded on Wednesday at the Foreign Training Node in Aundh, Pune (Maharashtra), marking the end of its 2nd edition.

Over a period of two weeks, from March 16-29 2023, 124 participants from 25 African nations and troops from the Sikh, Maratha, And Mahar regiments of India took part in this multinational exercise.

The validation phase of the exercise was observed by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, along with African Army Chiefs and representatives who attended the Chiefs' Conclave.

The main aim of AFINDEX-2023 was to foster positive military relations, exchange best practices, and promote the ability to work together while executing Humanitarian Mine Action and Peace Keeping Operations under the UN mandate.

By conducting this joint exercise, the armies were able to learn and adopt various methodologies and tactics while undertaking such operations. Furthermore, the exercise helped the forces understand the correct interpretation of Rules of Engagement while undertaking Peace Keeping Operations.

The exercise generated a sense of camaraderie, esprit de corps, and goodwill, which will go a long way in strengthening the bonds between the armies and will enable a better understanding of each other's organization and methodology of conducting various operations, paving the way for greater cooperation between the Indian and African armies in the future.

During the sidelines of the exercise, Indian Army also organized the Equipment Display, showcasing 75 indigenous products from 32 industries that were manufactured under the 'Make in India' initiative. The event was also witnessed by African Army Chiefs, representatives of Chiefs, and participants of the African nations.