India-Russia Concludes Tri-Service Exercise INDRA-2019 Focusing On Counter-Terrorism Operations

The India-Russia tri-services exercise INDRA-2019, focusing on counter terrorism and counter insurgency operations, at Babina, Pune and Goa ended on Thursday (19 December), the Defence Ministry said.

"Important lectures, demonstrations and drills related to counter-terrorism operations were rehearsed and executed jointly. Both the contingent shared their expertise and experience," a Defence Ministry statement said.

The exercise included joint training in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations under the United Nations mandate.

This is the second edition of bilateral tri-services exercise INDRA between Indian and Russia.

As part of validation exercise held on 19 December, troops of both countries carried out specialised joint counter-terrorist operations which were witnessed by dignitaries from both countries.

The validation exercise was reviewed by Minister of State for Defence Shripad Yesso Naik in presence of Indian Army's Southern Command chief, Lt Gen S.K. Saini, and other senior officers of both the participating countries.

The Russian side was represented by Lt Gen Sergei Serukov, Deputy Commander, Eastern Military District. The exercise concluded with a ceremonial closing by both the contingents.

"Exercise INDRA-2019 was very successful in increasing the bonhomie and camaraderie amongst both the participating nations. The exercise provided an opportunity to both the armies for greater understanding and strengthening of mutual trust and cooperation," the Defence Ministry statement said.

(This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.)