Which of the following statements about ‘Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023’ are correct?

This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.

Select the answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1, 2 and 4
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (d) 2, 3 and 4

Explanation:

Statement 1: This statement is incorrect. Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 was a joint military exercise between India and Sri Lanka, not Bangladesh .
Statement 2: This statement is correct. The exercise commenced in Aundh (Pune).
Statement 3: This statement is correct. One of the goals of the exercise was to jointly rehearse responses during counter-terrorism operations.
Statement 4: This statement is correct. The Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise, with 15 personnel participating .

Learn more

Exercise Mitra Shakti: This is an annual joint military exercise conducted between India and Sri Lanka. It aims to enhance bilateral defense cooperation and interoperability between the armed forces of the two nations.
Commencement and Location: The ninth edition of the exercise, Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023, commenced on November 16, 2023, and was held in Aundh (Pune).
Participants: The Indian contingent included 120 personnel from the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment and 15 personnel from the Indian Air Force. The Sri Lankan side was represented by personnel from the 53 Infantry Division and five personnel from the Sri Lankan Air Force.
Objectives: The primary goal was to jointly rehearse sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, focusing on counter-terrorist operations. The exercise included tactical actions such as raid, search and destroy missions, heliborne operations, and more .
Modern Techniques: The exercise incorporated the use of drones, counter-unmanned aerial systems, and helicopters. Drills to secure helipads and undertake casualty evacuation during counter-terrorist operations were also part of the exercise .
Knowledge Exchange: Both sides exchanged views and practices on a wide spectrum of combat skills, facilitating mutual learning and enhancing defense cooperation. This exercise also aimed to foster strong bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka .