Guwahati, 30 May (HS): The maiden edition of the multilateral military exercise PRAGATI 2026 concluded successfully at Umroi Military Station in Meghalaya, marking a significant step towards enhancing interoperability, mutual trust and collective preparedness among regional armed forces.

The exercise brought together more than 400 military personnel from 13 countries — India, Bhutan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and Vietnam — under the framework of Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region (PRAGATI). The event culminated in a comprehensive 72-hour validation exercise conducted in semi-mountainous and jungle terrain.

The closing ceremony was attended by six Vice Chiefs and over 40 senior military officials from participating nations. Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, Vice Chief of the Army Staff, hosted the visiting dignitaries and held bilateral discussions aimed at further strengthening defence cooperation and military-to-military ties.

During the exercise, troops underwent intensive training in counter-terrorism operations through lectures, demonstrations and practical drills. Participants worked in mixed teams and carried out activities including rock craft, ambush and counter-ambush operations, slithering, jungle lane shooting, room and bus intervention, improvised explosive device detection and casualty evacuation.

A key feature of the exercise was the strong camaraderie developed among soldiers from different nations as they trained and operated together under challenging field conditions, promoting professional cooperation and mutual understanding.

As part of the event, the Indian Army, in collaboration with FICCI and the Army Design Bureau, organised a defence equipment exhibition showcasing indigenous technologies and next-generation military systems. The display highlighted India's growing defence manufacturing capabilities under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and encouraged defence industry collaboration and exports.

Officials said Exercise PRAGATI 2026 has substantially improved interoperability among participating forces, strengthened collective readiness and deepened regional partnerships. The successful completion of the inaugural edition has laid the groundwork for future editions and reaffirmed the shared commitment of partner nations towards peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.--------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash