Shillong: Exercise PRAGATI 2026 concluded at the Umroi Military Station in Meghalaya, marking the first time 13 nations joined forces for the regional military initiative. More than 400 personnel from countries including India, Bhutan, Indonesia, and Vietnam participated in the 72-hour validation exercise. The program focused on enhancing interoperability, trust, and collective readiness among the participating armed forces.
Training sessions took place in challenging semi-mountainous and jungle terrain. Troops operated in mixed teams to conduct counter-terrorism drills such as rock craft, ambush navigation, room interventions, and casualty evacuations. These activities aimed to build professional understanding and stronger military ties across the Indian Ocean Region.
The closing ceremony featured attendance from six Vice Chiefs and dozens of senior officials. Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth hosted the visiting delegations, holding bilateral discussions to bolster defense cooperation. Throughout the event, the Indian Army partnered with FICCI and the Army Design Bureau to showcase indigenous technologies, highlighting India's expanding capabilities in military innovation under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Officials stated that the successful inaugural event established a foundation for future iterations. By deepening strategic partnerships, the exercise reinforced a shared commitment to maintaining peace and security throughout the Indo-Pacific.
Photo Courtesy: India Today Group

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