Next week, the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army will commence the 10th edition of their joint exercise, “Mitra Shakti,” in Maduruoya, located in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province. This annual event is essential for fostering cooperation and enhancing interoperability between the two nations’ armed forces.
Details of the Exercise
- Dates: August 12, 2024 – August 25, 2024
- Location: Maduruoya, Sri Lanka
- Participants:
- Indian Army: A unit of 120 soldiers from the Rajputana Rifles (Raj Rif)
- Sri Lankan Army: 120 troops from the Gajaba Regiment
Focus Areas
This year’s exercise will concentrate on:
- Joint Operations: Emphasis on operations in semi-urban environments
- Alignment: Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, which addresses threats to peace and security
Objectives
- Operational Proficiency: Improve the operational skills of both armies through skill exchange and best practices
- Security Challenges: Address contemporary issues like counter-terrorism and urban warfare
- Defense Ties: Strengthen coordination and military relations between the Indian and Sri Lankan armed forces
Previous Edition
- Location: Pune, India
- Participants: Troops from the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment and 15 personnel from the Indian Air Force
- Activities:
- Use of drones and counter-unmanned aerial systems
- Securing helipads
- Conducting casualty evacuations during counter-terrorist operations
Significance
The 10th edition of “Mitra Shakti” highlights the commitment of both India and Sri Lanka to enhance their military cooperation. By engaging in such exercises, both nations aim to improve their readiness for addressing shared security concerns and maintaining regional stability.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- When will the 10th edition of “Mitra Shakti” begin?
- A) August 1, 2024
- B) August 12, 2024
- C) August 20, 2024
- D) August 25, 2024
- Which units are participating in the 10th edition of “Mitra Shakti”?
- A) Rajputana Rifles and Maratha Light Infantry Regiment
- B) Rajputana Rifles and Gajaba Regiment
- C) Gajaba Regiment and Indian Air Force
- D) Maratha Light Infantry Regiment and Sri Lankan Navy
- What is the primary focus of this year’s “Mitra Shakti” exercise?
- A) Naval operations
- B) Joint operations in semi-urban environments
- C) Airborne operations
- D) Maritime security
- Which chapter of the United Nations Charter is aligned with the focus of this year’s exercise?
- A) Chapter V
- B) Chapter VI
- C) Chapter VII
- D) Chapter VIII
- Where did the previous edition of “Mitra Shakti” take place?
- A) Colombo, Sri Lanka
- B) New Delhi, India
- C) Pune, India
- D) Dhaka, Bangladesh