Why in news?
India and Sri Lanka are holding the eleventh edition of Exercise Mitra Shakti from 10 to 23 November 2025 in Belagavi, Karnataka. This annual bilateral exercise aims to improve the ability of the two armies to operate together in sub‑conventional operations under a United Nations mandate. It also strengthens defence cooperation and people‑to‑people ties between the neighbours.
Background
The Mitra Shakti series of exercises began in 2012 as part of broader defence engagement between India and Sri Lanka. The name means “power of friendship” and reflects the shared objective of enhancing interoperability, mutual understanding and trust. Each year the venue alternates between the two countries, and the participating contingents practice a wide range of military drills, tactical procedures and humanitarian operations.
Highlights of the 2025 edition
- Participating units: The Indian Army has fielded around 170 personnel mainly from the RAJPUT Regiment and 20 personnel from the Indian Air Force. The Sri Lankan side has about 135 soldiers from the GAJABA Regiment and 10 air force personnel.
- Training activities: Troops will rehearse raids, search‑and‑destroy missions, heliborne operations and casualty evacuation. There will be live firing, drone employment, counter‑unmanned aerial system drills and securing of helipads.
- Physical and mental conditioning: Soldiers will participate in Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR), combat reflex shooting and yoga sessions to build resilience and teamwork.
- Humanitarian focus: The exercise includes scenarios typical of United Nations peacekeeping operations, such as crowd control, cordon‑and‑search operations and providing aid to civilians caught in conflict.
Significance
- Enhancing interoperability: Joint drills allow the two armies to learn from each other’s tactics, standard operating procedures and experience in counter‑insurgency.
- Strengthening bilateral ties: Regular military exchanges deepen trust and understanding, reinforcing India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and Sri Lanka’s commitment to regional security.
- Contributing to peacekeeping: By practicing sub‑conventional operations in a simulated UN environment, both sides prepare their troops for future peacekeeping missions around the world.
Conclusion
Exercise Mitra Shakti 2025 underscores the growing defence partnership between India and Sri Lanka. Through joint training and cultural exchange, the two armies aim to strengthen peace, stability and cooperation in the region.
Source: Press Information Bureau