India-Kyrgyzstan military exercise named Khanjar concluded
Recently a joint military exercise was organized between India and Kyrgyzstan, which is named ‘Khanjar’.
This military exercise took place in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. It was hosted by Kyrgyzstan.
This is the 8th military exercise of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Military Exercise Series that focused primarily on terrorism and high-altitude battlefield and counter-extremism exercises.
Since 2011, ‘Khanjar’ exercise has been organized every year between India and Kyrgyzstan.
This military exercise was held for two weeks. In which the National Guards of the Republic of Kyrgyz and the Special Forces Unit of the Indian Army took part.
India-Kyrgyzstan Relations:
- In the year 2015, four agreements were signed between India and Kyrgyzstan to focus on defense cooperation. It also included organizing a military exercise between the two countries every year.
- Since Kyrgyzstan is located in Central Asia, India is exploring many opportunities to expand its business in the region.
- For this purpose, India is associated with important projects like International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and Chabahar Port. Therefore, India always wants to develop good relations with Kyrgyzstan.
Problem of terrorism:
- It is known that the Fergana valley, which is situated between Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, is considered to be a stronghold of the Hizb-ut-Tahrirand the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, a major terrorist organization.
- After the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan, the Taliban can dominate these territories while also dominating Afghanistan.
- In such a situation, it becomes very important for India to build strong defense relations with these Central Asian countries.
What is the Special Forces Unit of the Indian Army?
- Special Forces are called groups of trained personnel set up for a mission or special task.
- For example, Para Special Forces of the Indian Army are trained for various roles such as terrorism, hostage rescue, counter-terrorism.
- The Garuda Commando Force is a special force in the Air Force. The main functions of this force include anti-terrorism activities. This force has earned international fame for its skill.
Source – The Hindu
