The inaugural edition of the multilateral military exercise PRAGATI 2026 wrapped up successfully at the Umroi Military Station in Meghalaya. The exercise, which lasted 72 hours, aimed to boost interoperability, mutual trust, and collective readiness among participating nations. More than 400 military personnel from 13 countries, including India, Bhutan, Cambodia, and others, took part in the exercise under the banner of Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region (PRAGATI).
The closing ceremony of the exercise was graced by six Vice Chiefs and over 40 senior military officials from the participating nations. Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, Vice Chief of the Army Staff, engaged in bilateral discussions with the visiting dignitaries to further enhance defense cooperation and military ties among regional partners. The exercise, set in semi-mountainous and jungle terrain, primarily focused on counter-terrorism operations and involved rigorous training sessions encompassing lectures, demonstrations, and practical drills.
Troops from the participating nations collaborated in mixed teams during the exercise, undertaking various activities such as rock craft, ambush drills, slithering, and jungle lane shooting. The event also included exercises like room and bus intervention, improvised explosive device (IED) detection, and casualty evacuation operations. Notably, the exercise highlighted the camaraderie and soldierly bonding among participants as they worked together in challenging conditions, fostering mutual understanding, trust, and professional cooperation.
As part of the exercise, the Indian Army, in partnership with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Army Design Bureau, organized a defense equipment exhibition. The exhibition showcased indigenous defense technologies and next-generation military systems, emphasizing India’s advancements in defense design, development, and manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This initiative also aimed to promote collaboration and exports in the defense sector, enhancing interoperability and strengthening partnerships among the participating countries.
