400 military personnel from 12 nations take part in Exercise PRAGATI 2026 in Meghalaya
Umroi, May 25
The maiden edition of the multinational joint military exercise PRAGATI 2026, which commenced on May 20 at Umroi in Meghalaya, is in full swing, bringing together over 400 military personnel from 12 friendly nations in a shared commitment towards regional peace, security and cooperation.
The exercise has provided an important platform for participating armies to train together, share best practices, and enhance interoperability in a multinational environment. A key feature of the ongoing training has been the formation of cohesive mixed teams, comprising personnel from all participating nations, who are training extensively together for a common cause.
Over the past three days, the mixed teams have trained in semi-mountainous and jungle terrain, undertaking rock craft, ambush and counter-ambush drills, slithering, jungle lane shooting, and bus intervention. Sniper and AK-203 firing competitions have also been conducted to enhance operational proficiency, confidence, and professional understanding among the participants.
The exercise has equally focused on strengthening camaraderie and military bonding through sports and informal interactions. Personnel from friendly nations participated in basketball, volleyball, and tug of war, reinforcing teamwork, mutual trust, and the soldierly spirit that binds armed forces across borders.
Exercise PRAGATI 2026 continues to strengthen collective readiness, deepen military-to-military cooperation, and build enduring bonds among regional partners.
In a separate incident, the Indian Army, under the aegis of the Spear Corps, conducted a special yoga session at Aalo in the West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh on May 23, as part of the month-long celebrations leading up to International Yoga Day 2026.
The session witnessed enthusiastic participation from troops, students and young players taking part in the Hangpan Dada Memorial Football and Volleyball Tournament. The programme focused on simple yoga practices, correct body alignment, breathing discipline and mental well-being, with an aim to promote a healthy and balanced lifestyle among the participants.
The event also highlighted the importance of yoga in building physical fitness, inner balance, discipline and positivity in daily life. It provided a meaningful platform for youth engagement and interaction between Army personnel and local students.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is a fantastic example of international military cooperation. The mixed team training and sports activities will definitely build lasting bonds. It's good to see yoga also being promoted among the troops and local youth—a wholesome approach to fitness and mental wellness.
Good step but I hope these exercises aren't just photo ops. The real test is how we use these partnerships in actual contingencies. Also, the yoga session in Arunachal is nice but let's not forget the real infrastructure and development needs of our border areas. Still, any effort to engage youth is welcome.
Amazing coordination with 12 nations! The sniper and AK-203 competitions must have been thrilling. Our jawans are truly world-class. Makes me proud to be an Indian. Also, yoga in Aalo—beautiful way to connect with local youth. 🇮🇳💪
It's heartening to see such collaborative military exercises. The focus on rock craft, ambush drills, and jungle shooting shows serious, skill-based training. The sports and yoga sessions are excellent for morale and community engagement. Well done to all involved.
Very happy to see the Indian Army taking such proactive steps in building partnerships. The mixed team concept is brilliant for fostering trust. And yoga for the youth in Arunachal? Wonderful! Mental health and discipline are so important, especially for young athletes. Kudos to Spear Corps! 🙏
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