IThe 18th Indo-Nepal Joint Military Exercise, Surya Kiran, is currently underway in Saljandi, Nepal. The exercise, which will be held from December 31 to January 13, will strengthen the partnership between the Indian and Nepali militaries and provide a platform to exchange best practices and hone operational skills.

The primary focus of this year’s exercise is counter-terrorism, jungle warfare and operations in challenging mountainous terrain.

The exercise will consist of an infantry battalion from each military training unit, with the aim of improving interoperability and sharing experiences related to counter-terrorism and disaster relief operations.

As part of the inaugural ceremony, both the teams participated in a traditional march to the tune of Indian and Nepali military music. The event symbolized the long-standing friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

Major General Prem Bahadur Gurung, Commander of the Mid-Western Division of the Nepal Army, addressed the troops during the ceremony. He stressed the importance of learning from each other’s experiences and improving interoperability, strengthening the brotherhood between India and Nepal.

“Learn from each other’s rich experiences, ensure interoperability and strengthen the brotherhood between the two nations,” he said in his address.

The Indian Army contingent reached Saljandi on December 29, receiving a traditional military welcome. Around 700 personnel from both countries are participating in the exercise, further strengthening military ties between the two countries.

The Indian Army said in a statement that the exercise will improve interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in the mountains, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief activities in accordance with the UN Charter.