By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Dec. 31: The 18th edition of the long-standing military exercise between Nepal and India, aimed at achieving shared security objectives and strengthening bilateral relations, will commence on Tuesday in Saljhandi, Rupandehi.
The battalion-level joint military exercise, named "Surya Kiran", will focus on enhancing military capabilities in challenging scenarios, including jungle warfare, counterterrorism operations in geographically difficult terrain, peacekeeping by the United Nations charter, humanitarian assistance, disaster management, relief operations, capacity building, and environmental protection.
According to the Directorate of Public Relations and Information of the Army Headquarters, the training, which lasts until January 13, will involve the Nepali Army's Shreejung Battalion and the Indian Army's 11th Gorkha Rifles.
According to Nepali Army Spokesperson and Brigadier General Gaurav Kumar KC, the exercise is expected to deepen the friendship, trust, and shared cultural ties between Nepal and India while further strengthening cooperation and collaboration between the two professional armies.
Since its inception in 2010, this annual exercise alternates between Nepal and India. Last year's 17th iteration was held in Pithoragarh, India. So far, 4,215 soldiers from the Nepali Army and 4,442 soldiers from the Indian Army have participated in the exercise.