India Conducting its First ‘Exercise PRAGATI’ with 11 Nations in Meghalaya

A Big Leap in Defence Diplomacy

The Indian Army is hosting representatives from 11 nations for the first time in Exercise PRAGATI at the Foreign Training Node, Umroi, Meghalaya.The move highlights India's increasing focus on defence engagement, interoperability and security, in the Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

What is Exercise PRAGATI?

Exercise PRAGATI is an acronym for Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region . It aims to be a multinational exercise to foster interaction and training with friendly foreign troops.

Key Objectives of the Exercise

It centres on enhancing military cooperation and interoperability between nations:

• Strengthening defence cooperation
• Improving interoperability
• Fostering trust and coordination
• Enhancing regional peace and security
• Countries invited and Regional Involvement

Fifteen countries were invited, including:

• Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka
• Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand
• Vietnam, Philippines, Cambodia, Laos
• Maldives, Myanmar, Seychelles

Of these, 11 nations are part of the first edition. This shows India's commitment to connecting with its neighbours and ASEAN countries.

Significance of Umroi, Meghalaya

Umroi, in Northeast India, is home to the Foreign Training Node (FTN), where the exercise will be conducted.

Why this location matters:

• Boosts India's capabilities in the Northeast
• Improves connectivity with its neighbours
• Provides opportunities for training and exercises

And it is in line with India’s efforts to include the Northeast in global strategic and security discussions.

India's Growing Security Presence

India is building a reputation as a regional security player in the Indo-Pacific through its activities, such as Exercise PRAGATI.

Overarching objectives include:

• Enhancing relations with friendly countries
• Addressing emerging security challenges
• Enhancing security in the Indian Ocean Region

These exercises are part of India's efforts to be a net security provider and a catalyst for regional engagement.

Exam-Focused Points

• First Exercise PRAGATI to be held by Indian Army in Meghalaya.
• Full form: Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in IOR.
• 11 countries (out of 15) to participate.