India, Nepal armies train hard at Pithoragarh

The ninth edition of the Indo-Nepal combined battalion-level military training exercise 'Surya Kiran' is underway at Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

On till February 21, the 'Surya Kiran' series of exercises are aimed at enhancing inter-operability between the Indian and the Nepalese Army units in jungle warfare and counter terrorism operations in the mountainous terrain. The training also focuses on humanitarian aid and disaster relief, including medical and aviation support.

Here are some photographs of the bi-annual event

Army units of both nations hold jungle disaster mitigation and guerrilla war exercises at the Army ground of the local Cantt area. Photograph: Ministry of Defence

The troops taking part in the exercise are also getting training in searching for hidden enemy through jungle warfare and in reaching at the war zone by helicopters. Photograph: Ministry of Defence

The role and importance of armed forces in disaster management in both the countries has assumed increasing significance in recent years. Above, Army engineers lay a Bailey bridge, a temporary bridge of lattice steel designed for rapid assembly from prefabricated standard parts, used especially in military operations. Photograph: Ministry of Defence

The focus of the exercise was on humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations which also includes medical and aviation aspects. Above, a soldier evacuates a disaster victim. Photograph: Ministry of Defence

Brigadier Sanjay Sharma, officiating Maj Gen General Staff, Central Command, emphasised that both the armies have a lot to learn from each other especially in our approach towards handling the modern day challenges of addressing terrorism and also in disaster management as it has been one of the most important challenges for both countries after the recent calamities. Photograph: Ministry of Defence

The Nepalese Army is being represented by officers and troops of the elite Shree Rudra Dhoj Battalion, while an infantry battalion is participating on behalf of Indian Army. Photograph: Ministry of Defence

This is the 9th such exercise between the two countries during which the emphasis is on upgrading tactical and practical skills through sharing of each others experiences. Photograph: Ministry of Defence