Exercise SURYAKIRAN: Strengthening Indo-Nepal Military Cooperation

Why in the News ?

The 19th edition of Exercise SURYAKIRAN (SURYAKIRAN XIX – 2025) has officially begun at Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, marking the continuation of one of the largest Indo–Nepal joint military initiatives.

What is Exercise SURYAKIRAN ?

About

• Exercise SURYAKIRAN is a bilateral military exercise conducted between India and Nepal.
• The ASSAM Regiment represents the Indian Army in the current edition.
• It is held annually, with hosting duties alternating between the two nations.
• The primary objective is to enable both armies to jointly rehearse sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the UN mandate.

Objectives of the Exercise

• Enhance coordination and interoperability between Indian and Nepali forces.
• Strengthen preparedness for mountain warfare and counter-terror operations.
• Improve the capacity for humanitarian relief and disaster response.
• Share best practices, operational experiences, and training standards.

Key Features of SURYAKIRAN XIX

• Operational Scope: Includes battalion-level training in:
  • Jungle warfare
  • Counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrain
  • Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR)
  • Environmental protection measures
  • Integrated ground–air operations
• Technology Integration: Focus on incorporating modern and emerging technologies such as:
  • Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
  • Drone-based ISR systems
  • AI-enabled decision-support tools
  • Autonomous logistics vehicles
  • Armoured protection platforms
    Enabling both forces to refine tactics and improve response strategies.
• Joint Military Learning: Both sides will share expertise across a broad spectrum of combat skills and operational procedures.

Significance

• Reinforces the long-standing defence partnership between India and Nepal.
• Enhances combined operational readiness and disaster response capability.
• Strengthens mutual trust, inter-operability, and regional security cooperation.