Intro: The multilateral military exercise ‘PRAGATI 2026’ commenced in Meghalaya, bringing together 12 friendly nations to boost regional security.
SHILLONG
A massive multilateral military exercise named ‘PRAGATI 2026’ officially commenced at the Umroi Military Station in Meghalaya.
The two-week-long event brings together armed forces personnel from 12 friendly nations, including Bhutan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, to boost regional security and strategic coordination.
Defence spokesman Lt. Col. Mahendra Rawat explained that PRAGATI stands for the Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region. Conducted in a spirit of friendship and mutual respect, the exercise offers a shared platform for global armies to engage in professional exchanges and build closer military ties.
Welcoming the international contingents, Major General Sunil Sheoran of the Indian Army emphasized the high importance of collective engagement in tackling modern security challenges.
He urged participants to learn from each other’s diverse perspectives. The extensive training will focus heavily on counter-terrorism operations within challenging semi-mountainous and jungle terrains, featuring joint tactical drills to improve endurance and troop proficiency. Additionally, the exercise will showcase cutting-edge Indian technology. Local defense companies are set to display indigenous equipment under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, highlighting India’s growing self-reliance in defense production. Ultimately, Exercise ‘PRAGATI 2026’ is expected to deepen professional bonds and foster a unified approach to shared security threats among regional partners.