India and Kyrgyzstan on Monday began the 11th edition of their joint military exercise ”KHANJAR”, aimed at countering terrorism and extremism.
The two-week exercise commenced this morning at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh. It is an annual event conducted alternatively in both the countries.
The Indian Army contingent comprising 20 personnel is being represented by troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and the Kyrgyzstan contingent comprising 20 personnel is represented by Scorpion Brigade.
Troops from the two countries will exchange experiences and best practices in Counter Terrorism and Special Forces Operations in Built-up Area and Mountainous Terrain under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. The exercise will emphasise on developing special forces skills, advanced techniques of insertion and extraction.
”The exercise will provide an opportunity for both sides to fortify defence ties while addressing common concerns of international terrorism and extremism. The exercise will also provide an opportunity to showcase capabilities of cutting edge indigenous defence equipment besides achieving shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations,” the Ministry of Defence said.