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Surya Kiran 2025: Strengthening India-Nepal Military Ties

Insights into the 19th edition of the India-Nepal joint military exercise

Surya Kiran 2025: Strengthening India-Nepal Military Ties

  • 27 Nov, 2025
  • 644

Introduction to Surya Kiran 2025

On 25 November 2025, the Indian Army (IA) and Nepal Army (NA) launched the 19th edition of the joint military exercise named ‘Surya Kiran 2025’ in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. This significant exercise is set to conclude on 8 December 2025.

Objectives of the Exercise

Surya Kiran 2025 aims to bolster counter-terrorism capabilities, enhance jungle and mountain warfare skills, and improve operational interoperability between the two forces. This collaboration is crucial for both nations to address common security challenges.

Key Details of Surya Kiran 2025

  • Exercise Name: Surya Kiran
  • Edition: 19th Edition
  • Duration: 25 November 2025 to 8 December 2025
  • Host Country: India
  • Location: Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand
  • Focus Areas: Counter-Terrorism, Jungle Warfare, High-Altitude Operations

Background of Surya Kiran

This military exercise is conducted annually between India and Nepal, alternating between the two countries. The previous edition, the 18th Surya Kiran, occurred in January 2025 at Saljhandi, Nepal.

Scope and Focus

Surya Kiran 2025 aims to rehearse sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations (UN) mandate. The scope of the exercise includes:

  • Enhancing battalion-level coordination in jungle warfare
  • Conducting counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrains
  • Providing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)
  • Medical response coordination
  • Environmental conservation initiatives
  • Integrated ground-aviation operations

Technological Integration

This year, the exercise will place a strong emphasis on integrating niche and emerging technologies. Notable technologies include:

  • Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
  • Drone-based Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled decision support tools
  • Unmanned logistic vehicles
  • Armoured protection platforms

Participant Details

The Indian contingent comprises 334 personnel, primarily from the Assam Regiment. The Nepalese contingent, also consisting of 334 personnel, mainly represents troops from the Devi Datta Regiment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Surya Kiran 2025?
Answer: Surya Kiran 2025 is the 19th edition of the joint military exercise between the Indian Army and Nepal Army, focusing on counter-terrorism and mountain warfare skills.

Q2. Where is Surya Kiran 2025 being held?
Answer: The exercise is being conducted in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, India, from 25 November to 8 December 2025.

Q3. What are the main objectives of Surya Kiran 2025?
Answer: The objectives include enhancing counter-terrorism capabilities, improving jungle and mountain warfare skills, and operational interoperability between India and Nepal forces.

Q4. How often is the Surya Kiran exercise held?
Answer: Surya Kiran is an annual exercise conducted alternately between India and Nepal, fostering military cooperation.

Q5. What technologies are being integrated into Surya Kiran 2025?
Answer: Technologies such as Unmanned Aerial Systems, drone-based ISR, and AI-enabled tools are being integrated to enhance operational capabilities.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary focus of Surya Kiran 2025?
A) Naval Operations
B) Counter-Terrorism and Mountain Warfare
C) Cyber Security
D) Air Force Training
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which regiment represents the Indian contingent in Surya Kiran 2025?
A) Rajput Regiment
B) Assam Regiment
C) Gurkha Regiment
D) Punjab Regiment
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: How many personnel are involved from each nation in Surya Kiran 2025?
A) 200
B) 334
C) 500
D) 150
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which country hosts the Surya Kiran 2025 exercise?
A) Nepal
B) India
C) Bhutan
D) Bangladesh
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is one of the key technological focuses of Surya Kiran 2025?
A) Naval Warfare Systems
B) Drone-based Intelligence
C) Space Technology
D) Chemical Weapons
Correct Answer: B

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