Exercise Surya Kiran showcases the unwavering commitment of both the nations towards a broader defence cooperation, says the Indian Army
Contingents from India and Nepal are all set to participate in the 18th edition of joint military exercise Surya Kiran which is scheduled to be held from December 29, 2024. The exercise, which will run till January 13, 2025, will be held in Saljhandi, Nepal.

The aim of the joint military exercise is to enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter terrorism operations in mountains and Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief under United Nations mandate, the Indian Army said on social media on Thursday (26, 2024).

“Exercise Surya Kiran signifies the strong bonds of friendship, trust and common cultural linkages that exist between India and Nepal. It also provides a platform for a productive and fruitful engagement between Indian Army and Nepali Army, showcasing the unwavering commitment of both the nations towards a broader defence cooperation,” the Indian Army said in a post on social media platform X.

Exercise Surya Kiran is an annual event conducted alternately in India and Nepal. The previous edition of the exercise was conducted in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand (India) in November-December 2023. 

The exercise is being held barely two weeks after Nepal Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel concluded a productive four-day official visit to India, marking a significant step in strengthening the longstanding defence and cultural ties between the two nations. The visit from December 11 to 14, 2024, resulted in key developments in defence cooperation, capacity building, and cultural engagement, reinforcing the deep-rooted relationship between the Nepali and Indian armies.

In November, Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi was in Nepal on a five-day official visit to deepen defence cooperation between the two nations and reinforce the historical, cultural, and strategic ties that have bound them for decades. 

Nepal is a priority partner for India under its “Neighbourhood First” policy. The country shares its border with five Indian states – Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. 

The two countries have long-standing and mutually beneficial cooperation in the field of defence and security. They regularly conduct joint military exercises. Additionally, India has provided arms and ammunition to the Nepal Army as well as conducted training programmes for the country’s military personnel.