Exercise SURYA KIRAN: A Strengthening Bond Between India and Nepal

Introduction

The enduring partnership between India and Nepal has been exemplified through various cultural, economic, and strategic collaborations. Among these, Exercise SURYA KIRAN, an annual joint military exercise, stands as a testament to their robust defence cooperation. This year, the 18th edition of Exercise SURYA KIRAN is being hosted in Saljhandi, Nepal, from December 31, 2024, to January 13, 2025, with an Indian Army contingent of 334 personnel and the Nepal Army’s Srijung Battalion in participation. This article delves into the significance, objectives, and broader impact of this unique military partnership.

Understanding Exercise SURYA KIRAN

Exercise SURYA KIRAN is an annual military drill conducted alternately in India and Nepal. Initiated to bolster cooperation and preparedness, it emphasizes critical aspects such as counter-terrorism operations, jungle warfare, disaster relief, and medical training. It is designed to address challenges that both nations face in their respective terrains, especially the mountainous and jungle regions that dominate much of their geography.

This year’s exercise is particularly notable for its emphasis on enhancing coordination, operational effectiveness, and environmental awareness in defence strategies.

Leadership and Representation

The Indian contingent for Exercise SURYA KIRAN is represented by a battalion of the 11th Gorkha Rifles, a prestigious infantry regiment with a storied history of bravery and excellence. On the other hand, the Srijung Battalion of the Nepal Army brings its expertise and local knowledge, reflecting Nepal’s commitment to the exercise.

The collaboration between these battalions underscores the shared military ethos of both countries and highlights their dedication to achieving collective security goals.

Key Objectives of Exercise SURYA KIRAN

The primary objectives of Exercise SURYA KIRAN are centered on fostering mutual understanding and improving operational capabilities.

1. Enhancing Counter-Terrorism Operations
   With the global rise in asymmetric warfare, both armies aim to refine their counter-terrorism strategies, particularly in the challenging terrains of the Himalayan region.
2. Improving Jungle Warfare Skills
   The dense forested regions in Nepal and parts of India present unique challenges. Soldiers are trained to adapt and operate effectively in these environments, leveraging skills in survival, stealth, and combat.
3. Disaster Relief Readiness
   As both nations are prone to natural disasters like earthquakes and floods, disaster management is a critical component. The exercise involves training for rapid response, evacuation, and relief measures in accordance with the United Nations Charter.
4. Medical Training and Humanitarian Assistance
   Medical emergencies during combat or natural disasters require specialized skills. The drill prioritizes medical training to ensure readiness in providing first aid, performing field surgeries, and managing crises.

Focus on Aviation and Environmental Conservation

A unique feature of this year’s exercise is its emphasis on aviation skills and environmental conservation.

• Aviation Skills: Helicopter operations for troop deployment, evacuation, and supply logistics are being explored to enhance efficiency in remote areas.
• Environmental Conservation: As both nations grapple with the impact of climate change, the exercise includes training sessions on sustainable practices in military operations to protect fragile ecosystems.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Exercise SURYA KIRAN is more than just a military drill; it is a symbol of the longstanding friendship between India and Nepal. Both nations share deep-rooted cultural ties, an open border, and a history of mutual support.

Recent High-Level Visits

The exercise is preceded by notable interactions between military leaders. General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Indian Army, visited Nepal to reinforce ties, while General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of Nepal’s Army, reciprocated with a visit to India. Such exchanges foster trust, mutual respect, and alignment on strategic interests.

Building Trust and Cooperation

Through joint training and shared objectives, Exercise SURYA KIRAN aims to build trust between the two militaries. It creates a platform to exchange ideas, refine tactics, and prepare for coordinated action in real-world scenarios.

Impact on Regional Security and Defence Cooperation

The collaboration between the Indian and Nepalese armies plays a pivotal role in ensuring regional stability.

• Shared Security Objectives: As neighbors, both nations face common threats, including terrorism, natural disasters, and transnational crimes. By working together, they enhance their readiness to counter these challenges.
• Interoperability: The exercise fosters seamless coordination between the two forces, enabling them to respond effectively during joint operations.
• Community Engagement: Beyond military objectives, Exercise SURYA KIRAN often includes community interaction programs, strengthening the army’s rapport with local populations.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The collaboration between the Indian and Nepalese armies is rooted in their shared history. Nepalese soldiers have served in the Indian Army for decades, particularly in regiments like the Gorkha Rifles, further solidifying the bond between the two nations.

Why Exercise SURYA KIRAN Matters

1. Operational Preparedness
   By focusing on realistic scenarios, the exercise ensures that soldiers are prepared for the complexities of modern warfare and disaster management.
2. Global Alignment
   The drill aligns with international standards, particularly the guidelines set by the United Nations, enhancing its global relevance.
3. Strengthening Defence Diplomacy
   Military collaborations like SURYA KIRAN are a cornerstone of diplomacy, showcasing a commitment to peace and stability in the region.

Conclusion

As the 18th edition of Exercise SURYA KIRAN unfolds in Saljhandi, Nepal, it marks another milestone in the evolving partnership between India and Nepal. Through its comprehensive training modules, emphasis on mutual understanding, and commitment to shared security, the exercise continues to be a beacon of bilateral cooperation.

By addressing modern challenges and fostering camaraderie between the forces, Exercise SURYA KIRAN not only strengthens defence ties but also reinforces the enduring friendship between India and Nepal. It stands as a reminder that through unity and collaboration, both nations can achieve their common goals of peace, stability, and development.

FAQs About Exercise SURYA KIRAN

Q1: What is Exercise SURYA KIRAN?
Ans: Exercise SURYA KIRAN is an annual joint military exercise between the Indian Army and Nepal Army. It focuses on enhancing cooperation in areas like counter-terrorism, jungle warfare, disaster relief, and medical training.

Q2: When and where is the 18th edition of Exercise SURYA KIRAN being held?
Ans: The 18th edition is taking place in Saljhandi, Nepal, from December 31, 2024, to January 13, 2025.

Q3: Which units are participating in this year’s exercise?
Ans: The Indian Army is represented by a battalion from the 11th Gorkha Rifles, while the Nepal Army is represented by the Srijung Battalion.

Q4: What are the key objectives of the exercise?
Ans: The exercise aims to strengthen operational readiness, improve coordination in jungle warfare and counter-terrorism operations, and enhance disaster relief and medical training capabilities.

Q5: Why is Exercise SURYA KIRAN important?
Ans: The exercise fosters trust, enhances military cooperation, and strengthens bilateral relations between India and Nepal. It also prepares both armies for joint action in real-world challenges.

Q6: How does this exercise impact regional security?
Ans: It ensures preparedness for shared security challenges such as terrorism, natural disasters, and transnational crimes, promoting peace and stability in the region.