An Indian Army contingent of 334 personnel left for Nepal to take part in the 18th edition of the Battalion Level Joint Military Training Exercise *SURYA KIRAN*, which will be conducted in Saljhandi, Nepal, from December 31, 2024, to January 13, 2025. It alternates annually between the two countries.
The Indian Army contingent is led by a Battalion from the 11th Gorkha Rifles for this event. The Srijung Battalion will represent the Nepal Army.
*Exercise SURYA KIRAN* is aimed at interoperability in the specified domains of jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrains, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)-within the framework of United Nations Charter. The larger emphasis would be on enhancing operational preparedness refining aviation operations, providing medical training, and promoting environmental conservation. These activities will improve both contingents' combat readiness, honing skills, and ensuring more refined coordination to work unceasingly in difficult environments.
This edition of *SURYA KIRAN* comes on the heels of successful visits to Nepal by General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, Indian Army, and General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Nepali Army, to India. It will provide invaluable opportunity to Indian and Nepali soldiers to learn from each other, and create avenues towards understanding the operational procedures of each other's armies.
*Exercise SURYA KIRAN* is a symbol of the replete friendship, trust, and shared cultural linkages shared by India with Nepal. It paves way for productive and professional engagements. It reaffirms the resolute commitment of both countries towards the future development of defense cooperation. Such exercises also contribute towards achieving shared security objectives and strengthening bilateral ties between the two friendly neighbors.
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