India & Bangladesh conclude join exercise SAMPRITI-XI augmenting bilateral defence ties

The India-Bangladesh joint military exercise SAMPRITI’s 11th edition concluded on October 16 at Umroi, Meghalaya. This 14-day exercise, which commenced on October 3, witnessed the participation of approximately 350 personnel from both nations to amplify the bilateral defence cooperation between India and Bangladesh.

SAMPRITI-XI, characterised by its emphasis on Sub-Conventional Operations as outlined in Chapter 7 of the UN mandate, comprised a Command Post Exercise (CPX) and a Field Training Exercise (FTX), culminating in a Validation Exercise. This ‘comprehensive’ training program, as per Army officials, was designed to enhance interoperability, share tactical expertise, and promote best practices between the Indian and Bangladeshi armies.

The Bangladesh contingent, led by Brigadier General Mohammed Mafizul Islam Rashed, Commander of the 52 Bangladesh Infantry Brigade, was consisted of 170 personnel. The lead unit from the Bangladesh Army side was the 27 Bangladesh Infantry Regiment. On the Indian side, troops from a battalion of the Rajput  Regiment formed the main contingent, under the leadership of Brigadier SK Anand, Commander of a Mountain Brigade. The exercise, as per the Ministry of Defence also witnessed the participation of personnel from various units including artillery, engineers, and other supporting arms and services from both sides.

The CPX, a important component of the exercise, involved 20 officers from each contingent, focusing on decision-making following thorough deliberations. Subsequently, the FTX validated grassroots-level operations, encompassing a series of joint tactical drills for counter-terrorist operations such as hostage rescue, crowd control measures, and the utilisation of helicopters in such operations. The Validation Exercise, conducted on October 14 and 15 at the Darranga Field Firing Range, Assam, showcased the collective prowess of both armies in executing Sub-Conventional Operations, officials added.

Throughout the exercise, participants were afforded the opportunity to witness the capabilities of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' through an Equipment Display, further highlighting the strides made by India in self-reliance in the defence sector. SAMPRITI-XI beyond strengthening the strategic ties, as per MoD, also fostered deeper cultural understanding and mutual benefits derived from shared experiences in Sub-Conventional Operations.