Nepali and Indian Armies Launch 18th Edition of Joint Military Exercise “SURYA KIRAN”

The 18th edition of the joint military exercise “SURYA KIRAN” between the Nepali Army and the Indian Army began today, December 31, 2024. The exercise was formally inaugurated by Major General Prem Bahadur Pun, Commander of the Mid-Western Division, at the Nepali Army Battle School in Saljhandi, Rupandehi District.

A total of 668 personnel are participating in the exercise, with the Nepali Army contingent led by Lieutenant Colonel Nirajan Katwal and the Indian Army contingent led by Colonel Japender Pal Singh. The exercise is scheduled to run until January 13, 2025.

The 17th edition of “SURYA KIRAN” was held successfully in Pithoragarh, India, last year. Since its inception in 2011, the exercise has been conducted annually on a reciprocal basis in both Nepal and India, completing 17 successful editions to date.

The focus of the joint exercise is on counterinsurgency, counterterrorism, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response operations. Participants will share expertise and experiences to enhance mutual cooperation and coordination in these key areas.

The Nepali Army emphasizes that such joint exercises play a vital role in strengthening the longstanding friendly relations between the two nations and contribute significantly to enhancing the professional skills and mutual understanding of both armed forces.