The 18th edition of Exercise Surya Kiran, a joint exercise between India and Nepal, is scheduled in Nepal from December 29, 2024, to January 13, 2025.
This exercise signifies strong ties of friendship, trust, and cultural linkages between the two countries.
Overview of Exercise Surya Kiran
The Exercise Surya Kiran is an annual joint military exercise between the Indian Army and Nepali Army that began in 2011 to enhance interoperability and cooperation in various operational scenarios. The first edition was held in 2011 in Vairengte, Mizoram, India. It is conducted annually and alternatively between India and Nepal. The latest edition of the exercise was held in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, India, from November 24 to December 7, 2023. 354 Indian troops from the Kumaon Regiment and 334 personnel from the Nepal Army’s Tara Dal Battalion participated in the exercise.
This exercise has evolved from a basic bilateral initiative into a multifaceted military collaboration that addresses contemporary security challenges while reinforcing the strategic partnership between India and Nepal.
18th Edition of Exercise Surya Kiran
The 18th edition of Exercise Surya Kiran, which involves the Indian Army and the Nepali Army, is scheduled for December 29, 2024, to January 13, 2025, in Saljhandi, Nepal. This exercise aims to enhance interoperability in Jungle Warfare, Counterterrorism Operations in the mountains, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) under the UN Charter.
India and Nepal share a longstanding, extensive defense cooperation partnership based on mutual benefits and collaborative efforts. Earlier this month, General Ashok Raj Sigdel, the Chief of the Staff of the Nepali Army, was conferred the Honorary Rank of General of the Indian Army during his visit to India from December 11 to 14, 2024, reflecting the longstanding military ties between the two nations.
General Sigdel also had high-level discussions with the senior political and military leadership, including:
- Shri Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister
- Shri Ajit Dowal, National Security Advisor
- General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff
- General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff
- Mr Rajesh Kumar Singh, Defence Secretary
- Mr Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary
These discussions underscored the need to enhance military capabilities, expand joint exercises like Surya Kiran, and increase collaboration in peacekeeping operations. General Sigdel also visited key defense facilities in Pune, including Tata Aerospace and Defence Limited and Bharat Forge, to explore opportunities for collaboration in defense manufacturing.
Exercise Surya Kiran enhances military capabilities and reinforces the strategic partnership between India and Nepal, reflecting their commitment to mutual security interests.
