India hosts joint military drill with 12 countries against terrorism

India and 12 countries from South and Southeast Asia have commenced a two-week multilateral military exercise at Umroi in the northeastern Indian state of Meghalaya, focusing on counter-terrorism operations in semi-mountainous and jungle terrain.

The exercise emphasises joint planning, tactical-level drills, and coordinated operations designed to enhance adaptability, endurance, and tactical proficiency of participating troops, with a focus on physical fitness, discipline, and coordination while operating in challenging conditions, according to the Defence Ministry.

The troops are drawn from Nepal, Bhutan, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Seychelles, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos.

Held under the banner of "Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region", the exercise provides a common platform for participating armies to engage in professional exchange, learn from one another's experiences, and strengthen military-to-military ties.

The opening ceremony was attended by senior military officials and dignitaries.

In his address, Major General Sunil Sheoran, Additional Director General of Infantry, Indian Army, highlighted the importance of collective engagement in addressing contemporary security challenges.

The exercise aims to enhance coordination among participating countries in joint operations, identify common areas of cooperation, share expertise, and establish an institutionalised mechanism for exchanging best practices developed through individual experiences.

As part of the exercise, Indian technology and defence companies will showcase indigenous equipment and innovations, highlighting India's growing capabilities in defence production, innovation, and self-reliance.