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Exercise highlights shared commitment to counterterrorism, operational preparedness, and peace, says Indian Army
The 18th edition of the India-Nepal Joint Military Exercise, "Surya Kiran-XVIII," culminated on Monday (January 13, 2025) with a successful 48-hour validation exercise, including a Command Post Exercise (CPX). The exercise showcased precision in counterterrorism battle drills, enhanced interoperability, and fostered a deeper understanding between the closely-knit armies of India and Nepal.
The two-week-long exercise, held at Saljhandi, Nepal, began on December 31, 2024, and emphasised counterterrorism maneuvers and operations in challenging terrains. Around 700 defence personnel from both nations participated, making this year’s edition a significant milestone in Indo-Nepal defense cooperation.
Key elements of the exercise included:
Counterterrorism Operations: Troops engaged in simulated drills, focusing on jungle survival, urban warfare, ambush tactics, and heliborne operations.
Advanced Tactical Training: Close-quarter combat, room-clearing techniques, and combat first-aid training were integral to the program, enhancing readiness for modern battlefield scenarios.
Latest Technology Integration: Simulators were used to infuse realism into the exercises, preparing troops for real-world challenges.
Camaraderie-Building Activities: Team sports and yoga sessions were incorporated to boost mental resilience and foster camaraderie between the forces.
The Command Post Exercise allowed both armies to plan and execute coordinated counterterrorism operations, demonstrating seamless interoperability and operational synergy.
Statements from Military Leadership
Addressing the troops, Major General Prem Bahadur Gurung of the Nepal Army commended the exercise as a platform for mutual learning and operational excellence. He urged participants to leverage each other’s experiences and foster the brotherhood that defines the India-Nepal partnership.
The Indian Army, in its official statement, emphasised the exercise's role in reinforcing the strong and enduring bond between the two armies. "Surya Kiran-XVIII highlights our shared commitment to counterterrorism, operational preparedness, and peace. The rigorous training has further strengthened our cooperation," the statement read.
Opening Ceremony and Military Traditions
The opening ceremony on December 31, 2024 featured a traditional march by both contingents, accompanied by Indian and Nepali military music. The Indian Army contingent, which arrived in Saljhandi on December 29, 2024, received a warm military reception.
The Surya Kiran exercise underscores the shared commitment of India and Nepal to regional peace and security. By focusing on counterterrorism, the exercise aligns with the broader strategic goals of maintaining stability in South Asia.
Participants engaged in lane training simulating real-world tactical challenges, equipping them to handle threats in complex environments.
India and Nepal share a unique relationship, with deep-rooted historical, cultural, and geographical ties. The Surya Kiran series, which alternates between the two nations, serves as a vital platform to strengthen these bonds while fostering defence cooperation.
The exercise also highlights the broader framework of Indo-Nepal military collaboration, which includes joint training, high-level exchanges, and support for capacity building. With both armies working closely to enhance their capabilities, the partnership remains a cornerstone of regional security.
The exercise's success extends beyond military benefits, contributing to the socio-cultural integration between the two nations. The interaction between soldiers helps build mutual respect, understanding, and trust, paving the way for stronger bilateral relations. Incorporating activities such as yoga and sports underscores the holistic approach to training, fostering mental resilience and camaraderie, essential for cohesive operations in high-stress environments.
Conclusion
The culmination of Surya Kiran-XVIII marks another chapter in the enduring partnership between the Indian and Nepalese armies. Through rigorous training, advanced tactics, and shared experiences, the exercise has enhanced interoperability, operational readiness, and mutual trust.
As the two nations continue to collaborate on defence and security, the Surya Kiran series stands as a testament to their shared commitment to peace, stability, and military excellence. This joint endeavor not only strengthens their strategic partnership but also contributes to the broader goal of maintaining harmony and security in the region.
The two-week-long exercise, held at Saljhandi, Nepal, began on December 31, 2024, and emphasised counterterrorism maneuvers and operations in challenging terrains. Around 700 defence personnel from both nations participated, making this year’s edition a significant milestone in Indo-Nepal defense cooperation.
Key elements of the exercise included:
Counterterrorism Operations: Troops engaged in simulated drills, focusing on jungle survival, urban warfare, ambush tactics, and heliborne operations.
Advanced Tactical Training: Close-quarter combat, room-clearing techniques, and combat first-aid training were integral to the program, enhancing readiness for modern battlefield scenarios.
Latest Technology Integration: Simulators were used to infuse realism into the exercises, preparing troops for real-world challenges.
Camaraderie-Building Activities: Team sports and yoga sessions were incorporated to boost mental resilience and foster camaraderie between the forces.
The Command Post Exercise allowed both armies to plan and execute coordinated counterterrorism operations, demonstrating seamless interoperability and operational synergy.
Statements from Military Leadership
Addressing the troops, Major General Prem Bahadur Gurung of the Nepal Army commended the exercise as a platform for mutual learning and operational excellence. He urged participants to leverage each other’s experiences and foster the brotherhood that defines the India-Nepal partnership.
The Indian Army, in its official statement, emphasised the exercise's role in reinforcing the strong and enduring bond between the two armies. "Surya Kiran-XVIII highlights our shared commitment to counterterrorism, operational preparedness, and peace. The rigorous training has further strengthened our cooperation," the statement read.
Opening Ceremony and Military Traditions
The opening ceremony on December 31, 2024 featured a traditional march by both contingents, accompanied by Indian and Nepali military music. The Indian Army contingent, which arrived in Saljhandi on December 29, 2024, received a warm military reception.
The Surya Kiran exercise underscores the shared commitment of India and Nepal to regional peace and security. By focusing on counterterrorism, the exercise aligns with the broader strategic goals of maintaining stability in South Asia.
Participants engaged in lane training simulating real-world tactical challenges, equipping them to handle threats in complex environments.
India and Nepal share a unique relationship, with deep-rooted historical, cultural, and geographical ties. The Surya Kiran series, which alternates between the two nations, serves as a vital platform to strengthen these bonds while fostering defence cooperation.
The exercise also highlights the broader framework of Indo-Nepal military collaboration, which includes joint training, high-level exchanges, and support for capacity building. With both armies working closely to enhance their capabilities, the partnership remains a cornerstone of regional security.
The exercise's success extends beyond military benefits, contributing to the socio-cultural integration between the two nations. The interaction between soldiers helps build mutual respect, understanding, and trust, paving the way for stronger bilateral relations. Incorporating activities such as yoga and sports underscores the holistic approach to training, fostering mental resilience and camaraderie, essential for cohesive operations in high-stress environments.
Conclusion
The culmination of Surya Kiran-XVIII marks another chapter in the enduring partnership between the Indian and Nepalese armies. Through rigorous training, advanced tactics, and shared experiences, the exercise has enhanced interoperability, operational readiness, and mutual trust.
As the two nations continue to collaborate on defence and security, the Surya Kiran series stands as a testament to their shared commitment to peace, stability, and military excellence. This joint endeavor not only strengthens their strategic partnership but also contributes to the broader goal of maintaining harmony and security in the region.
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