The 11th annual joint military exercise between India and Sri Lanka, known as ‘Mitra Shakti’, is scheduled to be held at the Foreign Training Hub in Belagavi, Karnataka from November 10 to 23, the Indian Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) announced on Saturday.
According to the ADGPI, the Mitra Shakti 2025 exercise aims to enhance operational synergy between the Indian and Sri Lankan armies in conducting joint operations in urban and semi-urban terrains.
What is the purpose of the event?
This joint training event underscores the two nations’ shared commitment to regional peace and security, the ADGPI said, adding that it was aimed at strengthening defense cooperation between the two forces. It would also serve to further cement the strategic partnership between India and Sri Lanka.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), ADGPI said: “Exercise #MitraShakti_2025. #IndianArmy will participate in the 11th annual Indo-Sri Lanka Mitra Shakti exercise with #SriLankaArmy at Foreign Training Node, Belagavi, from 23 November to 22 November.”
The post also mentioned the geopolitical significance of the event, saying, “Exercise Mitra Shakti 2025 aims to enhance operational synergy between the two militaries in conducting joint operations in urban and semi-urban terrain. The exercise underscores India and Sri Lanka’s shared commitment to regional peace and security while further strengthening defense cooperation, camaraderie and mutual trust between the two forces.”
Annual rotation and overview of previous editions
“Mitra Shakti” is an annual educational event held alternately in India and Sri Lanka.
The 10th annual India-Sri Lanka joint military exercise was held in Sri Lanka last year at the Army Training School, Maduru Oya.
The Indian contingent of 106 personnel was represented by a battalion of the Rajput Rifles along with personnel from other arms and services. Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan contingent was represented by personnel of the Gajaba Regiment of the Sri Lankan Army, ANI reported.
During the 2024 edition, the Indian Army noted the significant value of the joint military exercise ‘Mitra Shakti’ in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two forces, especially in the fight against terrorism.
The exercise provides an essential platform for sharing best practices and refining tactical approaches in this key area.
