India and Nepal are gearing up for the 19th edition of their annual military exercise, Suryakiran, set to take place from November 25 to December 8 in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. This long-running joint drill is a key component of defence cooperation between the two neighboring nations and aims to advance coordination in high-altitude combat environments.
The Indian Army noted that this year’s exercise will emphasize strengthening operational teamwork in jungle warfare and counter-terror missions, especially in mountainous terrain—an area where both armies frequently train. The upcoming sessions will also incorporate modern technologies designed to bolster interoperability and improve mission outcomes during joint deployments.
According to officials, Suryakiran continues to reflect the shared dedication of India and Nepal toward global peacekeeping efforts, while also deepening military ties, camaraderie, and trust between their armed forces. The drill is held every year in an alternating format, with each country hosting the exercise in rotation.
The previous edition, Suryakiran-18, took place from December 31, 2024, to January 13 in Saljhandi, Nepal. A contingent of 334 Indian Army personnel participated in that battalion-level exercise. The training focused on refining operational readiness, coordinating aviation support, improving medical response techniques, and promoting environmental awareness.
During Suryakiran-18, troops from both sides strengthened battlefield coordination, polished their combat skills, and built greater confidence in working together under demanding circumstances. The joint training provided a valuable platform to exchange knowledge, compare operational procedures, and share lessons learned from real-world missions.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted that India and Nepal maintain a long-standing partnership in defence and security, grounded in mutual respect and common interests. Both armies enjoy historically close ties, with India playing a significant role in upgrading Nepal’s military capabilities through equipment support and training programs.
India has also been a key partner in Nepal’s humanitarian and disaster relief efforts. The Indian Army contributed significantly during the 2015 earthquake response and extended support again during the COVID-19 pandemic, reinforcing its commitment to Nepal’s stability and well-being.
As Suryakiran-19 begins, the exercise continues its legacy as one of the most important bilateral military collaborations in the region, aimed at strengthening preparedness, enhancing cooperation, and reinforcing the enduring bond between the two countries.
