Why in the news?

• The “Exercise MITRA SHAKTI-2025” begins at the Foreign Training Node, Belagavi, Karnataka.

Exercise MITRA SHAKTI-2025

• What is it?: Bilateral joint military exercise between India and Sri Lanka.
• Objective: 
  • To jointly rehearse sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the UN Charter (Peace Support Operations).
  • Enhance interoperability between the two armies in counter-terrorism and peacekeeping operations.
  • Develop joint operational skills for Sub-Conventional Operations (SCOs).
  • Strengthen military cooperation and foster mutual understanding.
• Participants
  • India: Troops from the RAJPUT Regiment and personnel from the Indian Air Force.
  • Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka Army troops.
• Significance
  • Reinforces India’s Neighbourhood First and Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) doctrines.
  • Enhances defence cooperation and mutual trust between India and Sri Lanka.
  • Builds readiness for UN Peacekeeping Missions and humanitarian assistance operations.
  • Promotes regional stability through combined counter-terrorism capability building.