13-nation 'Exercise PRAGATI 2026' in Meghalaya strengthens regional military cooperation
Shillong, May 25
Multinational joint military Exercise 'PRAGATI 2026', currently underway at Umroi in Meghalaya, has entered an intensive phase of training and interoperability exercises, bringing together more than 400 military personnel from 12 friendly nations to strengthen regional peace, cooperation and collective security, officials said on Monday.
The maiden edition of the exercise, which commenced on May 20, is being conducted in the spirit of equality, friendship and mutual respect, providing participating armies with a common platform to train together, exchange operational experiences and enhance interoperability in a multinational environment.
Defence officials said one of the defining features of the ongoing exercise is the formation of integrated mixed teams comprising personnel from all participating countries.
These teams are training collectively in challenging semi-mountainous and jungle terrain, fostering professional understanding and operational coordination among the troops.
Over the last few days, participating contingents have undertaken a series of specialised military drills and tactical exercises designed to improve combat preparedness and mission coordination in difficult environments.
The training modules include rock craft, ambush and counter-ambush drills, slithering operations, jungle lane shooting and bus intervention exercises.
The exercise has also witnessed competitive events aimed at enhancing marksmanship and operational confidence among the participating soldiers.
Sniper firing competitions and AK-203 rifle shooting events have been conducted as part of the programme, allowing troops to familiarise themselves with different tactical approaches and weapon-handling practices followed by partner nations.
Apart from operational training, Exercise PRAGATI 2026 has placed significant emphasis on strengthening camaraderie and military bonding among the troops.
Soldiers from the participating nations have taken part in a range of sporting and recreational activities, including basketball, volleyball and tug of war competitions.
Officials noted that such informal interactions play an important role in building trust, teamwork and long-term professional relationships among armed forces personnel from different countries.
The multinational exercise is expected to further deepen military-to-military cooperation and improve collective readiness to respond to shared regional security challenges.
Defence authorities said the exercise reflects the common commitment of participating nations to promote peace, stability and cooperation through joint training, mutual learning and sustained defence engagement.
Exercise PRAGATI 2026 is also being viewed as an important step towards fostering enduring strategic partnerships and strengthening defence diplomacy in the region.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Great to see our armed forces building camaraderie through sports like basketball and tug of war! That's the real spirit of friendship. But I hope we also focus on humanitarian aid and disaster relief exercises in future editions - that would truly serve the region.
As someone who served in multinational ops, integrated mixed teams are the gold standard for interoperability. The AK-203 familiarization is smart too - commonality in weapons systems saves lives. Respect to India for hosting this complex exercise in Umroi's challenging terrain.
Love that they included sniper competitions and bus intervention drills - practical skills for both peacekeeping and counter-terror. The Meghalaya jungle must be challenging but beautiful! Hope local communities get some exposure too, maybe cultural exchange with troops.
While I appreciate the diplomatic value, let's not forget the common man. The defence budget for such exercises could be better spent on border infrastructure for our soldiers. But yes, goodwill with friendly nations matters. Just hope the cost-benefit is properly evaluated.
This is what real partnership looks like - not just flag-waving but actual joint drills in tough terrain. The slithering operations and rock craft exercises will build serious mutual respect. Great work by the Indian Army and friendly nations. Peace through strength!
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