SURYA KIRAN - XVII (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – IR)

Context: Recently, a contingent of 334 personnel from the Nepal Army arrived in India to partake in the 17th edition of the Joint Military Exercise SURYA KIRAN.

Exercise SURYA KIRAN

• About: It is an annual army exercise between India and Nepal and conducted alternatively in the two countries.
• Aim: To enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrain and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief under United Nations Charter on peacekeeping operations.
• Focus: The exercise will focus on the employment of drones and counter-drone measures, medical training, aviation aspects and also environment conservation.
• The exercise will provide a platform for soldiers from India and Nepal to exchange ideas and experiences; share best practices and foster a deeper understanding of each other’s operational procedures.
• XVI Edition 2022: Saljhandi, Nepal

Significance

• Exercise SURYA KIRAN signifies the strong bonds of friendship, trust, and common cultural linkages that exist between India and Nepal. 
• It sets the stage for a productive and fruitful engagement, showcasing the unwavering commitment of both nations towards a broader defence cooperation. 
• The exercise aims to achieve shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations between two friendly neighbors.