Q&A with Defense Expert on the Upcoming Surya Kiran Military Exercise
Editor: Welcome, everyone. Today,we’re discussing the upcoming 18th edition of the Surya Kiran military exercise between India and Nepal,scheduled from December 29,2024,to January 13,2025,in Saljhandi,Nepal. I’m joined by [Expert’s Name], a defense analyst with extensive knowlege of Indo-Nepal relations. thank you for being hear.
Expert: Thank you for having me.
Editor: To start, can you explain the significance of the Surya Kiran exercise in the context of India-Nepal relations?
Expert: Absolutely. The Surya Kiran exercise is crucial for enhancing military interoperability between India and Nepal. It focuses on jungle warfare, counterinsurgency operations, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. This collaboration not only fortifies military ties but also illustrates the deep-rooted friendship and cultural ties that both nations share. Given that Nepal shares borders with five Indian states, the strategic partnership is vital for regional stability.
Editor: That’s an excellent point.The upcoming exercise follows a significant visit by Nepal’s Army chief, general Ashok Raj Sigdel, to India. What implications does this visit have for defense cooperation?
Expert: general Sigdel’s visit underscores a commitment to strengthening defense cooperation and cultural connections between the two armies.It reflects a proactive approach to collaborating on security issues that effect both nations. Enhanced dialog at this level can lead to more effective joint exercises and training programs for the Nepalese military personnel, which is essential given the unique challenges posed by the diverse topography in the region.
Editor: Speaking of joint exercises, how does Surya Kiran compare to previous iterations? What lessons have been learned?
Expert: Each iteration of Surya Kiran has built on the lessons learned from past exercises. The previous exercise held in Pithoragarh, uttarakhand, in late 2023, revealed valuable insights into logistics and operational coordination in mountainous terrains. This upcoming exercise will likely incorporate those lessons, improving tactical execution and enhancing the preparedness of both forces in real-world scenarios.
Editor: It seems that the focus on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief is notably pertinent. How does this aspect benefit both nations?
Expert: The emphasis on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief is vital, especially in a region prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and landslides. This operational focus equips both forces with the skills to respond effectively to crises, bolstering not just military readiness but also fostering goodwill between nations. When military forces collaborate on saving lives in humanitarian contexts, it reinforces the bond between the two nations beyond traditional defense paradigms.
editor: As we look ahead to the exercise, what practical advice would you give to military personnel involved in the training?
Expert: I would advise military personnel to approach the exercise with an open mind and readiness to learn.Engaging with counterparts from another military can provide unique insights and techniques that may differ from their own practices. Additionally, fostering camaraderie is essential—it builds trust that can improve coordination during operations, both in military exercises and in actual disaster scenarios.
Editor: what can the public expect to gain from observing or learning about the Surya Kiran exercise?
Expert: The Surya Kiran exercise exemplifies regional cooperation and security.The public can see firsthand how two neighboring countries collaborate on essential issues like disaster management and military readiness. Understanding thes exercises can cultivate a sense of national pride and collective security, reinforcing the idea that strong bilateral ties can lead to a more stable and peaceful region.
Editor: Thank you, [Expert’s Name], for your valuable insights. It’s clear that the surya Kiran exercise is not just a military formality but a pivotal component of fostering enduring ties between India and Nepal.
Expert: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing this vital topic.