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Indo-nepal Joint Military Training Exercise “Surya Kiran-XVII” Concludes With Validation Exercise
A 14 days Joint Military exercise between the Armed Forces of India and Nepal, Exercise SURYAKIRAN-XVII (2023) concluded at Pithoragarh on 07 Dec 2023 under the aegis of Panchshul Brigade, Uttar Bharat Area under Surya Command. KUMAON Battalion of Panchshul Brigade and Shri Tara Dal Battalion of Nepali Army had participated in the Joint exercise.
The exercise was the 17th in the SURYAKIRAN series which culminated on 07 Dec 2023 with a resounding success. The exercise has not only deepened the bilateral defence cooperation between the two Nations but also further strengthened the friendship between the two Nations based on common culture and traditional bonds.
The training culminated with a 48 hours outdoor validation exercise in which troops of both contingents carried out Counter Insurgency & Counter Terrorism drills in a simulated operational environment with the use of latest tech simulators bringing realism and dynamism in joint training. The closing ceremony held at Pithoragarh, was graced by Brigadier General Sanu Kaji Thapa of Nepali Army and Brigadier SPS Chouhan of Indian Army. During the closing ceremony, Military Commanders from both sides addressed the gathering, expressing their appreciation for the exemplary professionalism, coordination and dedication demonstrated by the participating troops. The joint military exercise witnessed a wide range of training activities which included joint tactical exercises, simulated combat scenarios, disaster management drills and environment conservation initiatives.
The joint military exercise between India and Nepal has not only achieved its strategic objectives but has also paved the way for future collaborations and endeavours. It has further cemented the close ties between the Armed Forces of both Nations, creating a strong foundation for continued cooperation towards maintenance of peace, security and stability in the shared region.
Plantation Drive Organized By 111 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Kumaon On 08 Dec 2023
A Tree plantation drive was organised under the aegis of HQ Purva UP & MP Sub Area by 111 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) KUMAON at New Cantt, Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) on 08 Dec 2023 to address environmental challenges, promoting biodiversity, enhancing community welfare, and fostering sustainable economic development. This drive offers a myriad of environmental, social and economic benefits with an aim to emphasize that if we save nature then the nature will save us. This drive promoted a sense that if every people will initiate their responsibility towards nature we will be able to give a healthier and sustainable environment to our upcoming generation.
The valedictory function of the 23 Production Test Pilots (PTP) Course and 04 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Test Course was held at the Air Force Test Pilots School of Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE) on 08 Dec 23. Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, AVSM, VM, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Air Command was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
Air Force Test Pilots School (AFTPS), established under the aegis of ASTE, is a de-facto Centre of Excellence and the only institution in the country for training of experimental and production flight test crew for fixed wing, rotary wing and remotely piloted aircraft. AFTPS over the years has trained highly skilled test crew who have gone on to play a pivotal role not only in India’s defence aeronautical projects but also in space projects such as the prestigious Gaganyaan program. It has also trained officers of friendly foreign nations. A total of 45 Flight Test Courses, 22 Production Test Pilots Courses and 3 RPA Test Courses have passed out previously before the present courses. It is noteworthy that AFTPS is one of the few recognised Test Pilot Schools in the world, whose work and status has been endorsed by international bodies such as SETP, SFTE and Aeronautical Society of India.
During the ceremony, the graduating officers were awarded with certificates. Meritorious student officers who excelled were awarded with trophies. The trophies for the best all-round students in PTP and RPA test course were awarded to Lt Cdr Prafful Itape and Wg Cdr Vipan Jaggi respectively.
