India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise KAZIND-2024 Begins in Uttarakhand

The 8th edition of the India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise, KAZIND-2024, commenced in Auli, Uttarakhand. Running from September 30 to October 13, the exercise aims to strengthen military cooperation between the two nations, with participants from the Indian KUMAON Regiment and the Kazakhstan Land Forces.

The 8th edition of the India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise, KAZIND-2024, commenced on Monday at the Surya Foreign Training Node in Auli, Uttarakhand. This joint exercise is set to run from September 30 to October 13 and aims to bolster military cooperation between the two nations, as per an official press release by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The Indian Armed Forces are represented by 120 personnel, primarily from the KUMAON Regiment of the Indian Army, along with additional personnel from other arms and services, as well as the Indian Air Force. On the Kazakhstan side, the contingent mainly consists of personnel from the Kazakhstan Land Forces and Airborne Assault Troopers, showcasing their commitment to enhancing bilateral military relations.

KAZIND has been an annual fixture since its inception in 2016, serving as a pivotal platform for both nations to share tactical knowledge, enhance coordination, and strengthen military ties, according to the MEA press release. The joint drills focus on a variety of operations, including counter-terrorism strategies, peacekeeping efforts, and humanitarian assistance in natural disaster scenarios.

The previous edition of KAZIND took place in Otar, Kazakhstan, from October 30 to November 11, 2023, further cementing the longstanding defence partnership between the two countries. Over the years, KAZIND has evolved into a crucial exercise that enhances mutual trust and understanding between the Indian and Kazakh armed forces, allowing both sides to improve their interoperability and coordination in various scenarios.

The Ministry of Defence, which announced the commencement of KAZIND-2024, emphasised that this year's exercises will continue the tradition of fostering deep defence cooperation and understanding between India and Kazakhstan. According to the MEA, the 2024 edition will solidify their ability to collaborate effectively in joint military operations and share best practices in the field. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)