​India-Nepal Joint Military Exercise ‘Suryakiran’ Begins

• 01 Jan 2025

On 31st December, 2024, the 18th edition of the India-Nepal military exercise, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing security, commenced today in Rupandehi, Lumbini Province.

• The battalion-level joint military exercise, named ‘Suryakiran’, focuses on key aspects such as jungle warfare, counter-terrorism tactics, peacekeeping missions under the UN Charter, and disaster relief operations.
• The two-week-long training will see participation from the Mr. Jung Battalion of the Nepali Army and the 11th Gorkha Rifle of the Indian Army, highlighting the collaborative effort between the two nations.
• This military exercise aims to foster trust and friendship between Nepal and India while promoting cultural exchange and professional collaboration.
• The joint exercise has seen significant participation since its inception in 2010, with a total of 4,215 Nepali Army personnel and 4,442 Indian Army personnel having taken part so far.
• The 17th edition of the exercise took place in Pithoragarh, India, last year, reinforcing the continuity of this important bilateral initiative.