News Excerpt: 

The 11th edition of India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR has commenced at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh.

About Khanjar Exercise

• The exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 22nd January to 3rd February 2024. 
• It is an annual event conducted alternatively in both the countries.
• The Indian Army contingent comprising 20 personnel is being represented by troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and the Kyrgyzstan contingent comprising 20 personnel is represented by Scorpion Brigade.
• Aim of the exercise is to exchange experiences and best practices in Counter Terrorism and Special Forces Operations in Built-up Area and Mountainous Terrain under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. 

Significance:

• The exercise will emphasize on developing Special Forces skills, advanced techniques of insertion and extraction.
• The army said the exercise will provide an opportunity for both sides to fortify defence ties while addressing common concerns of international terrorism and extremism.
• The exercise will also accord the opportunity to showcase capabilities of cutting edge indigenous defence equipment besides achieving shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations.