Meghalaya Hosts First Multinational Military Drill 'Pragati 2026' with Focus on Counter-Insurgency

In Meghalaya, the inaugural multinational military exercise ‘Pragati 2026’ brought together troops from 13 countries to focus on counter-insurgency strategies. The exercise fostered cooperation and trust among Indian Ocean nations, involving extensive training in semi-mountainous and jungle terrains over two weeks.

Troops from 13 countries gathered in Meghalaya's Umroi for the first iteration of the multinational military drill, 'Pragati 2026.' The exercise, concluding recently, aimed at fostering cooperative defense efforts with a spotlight on anti-insurgency strategies among Indian Ocean nations, officials reported.

Members from Bhutan, Cambodia, Indonesia, and other nations engaged in rigorous training, confronting scenarios such as detecting IEDs and executing special operations across challenging terrains. The two-week maneuver saw participants improving synergy and mutual trust furthering stability within the region.

Dignitaries such as Dhiraj Seth, a senior Indian Army official, attended the closing ceremony alongside other global military leaders. They discussed incorporating advanced technologies into military practices, enhancing tactical and procedural capabilities.

The expansive drill also encouraged inter-nation camaraderie, with soldiers participating in cultural exchanges, sport, and yoga sessions. A defense equipment showcase highlighted indigenous advancements, underscoring India’s growing prowess in defense technology development and manufacturing.