Meghalaya: India and Bangladesh Launch Joint Military Exercise 'SAMPRITI-XI'

UMROI (MEGHALAYA): India and Bangladesh have commenced a two-week-long joint military exercise in Umroi, Meghalaya, known as "SAMPRITI-XI." The primary objective of this exercise is to facilitate the exchange of tactical drills and promote the sharing of best practices in conducting sub-conventional operations.

The "SAMPRITI-XI" exercise holds the promise of further strengthening defense cooperation between the two neighboring nations. It seeks to foster deeper bilateral relations, enhance cultural understanding, and facilitate mutual benefits through shared experiences, as stated by the defense ministry.

This collaborative exercise, which is organized alternatively by both India and Bangladesh, underscores the robustness of their bilateral defense cooperation initiatives. "SAMPRITI-XI" had its inception in Jorhat, Assam, in 2009 and has successfully completed ten editions up to 2022.

Approximately 350 military personnel from both sides are actively participating in this exercise. The Bangladeshi contingent, led by Brigadier General Mohammed Mafizul Islam Rashed, Commander of the 52 Bangladesh Infantry Brigade, includes 170 personnel. The lead unit from the Bangladesh Army is the 27 Bangladesh Infantry Regiment.

On the Indian side, the contingent primarily consists of troops from a battalion of the Rajput Regiment, with Brigadier S K Anand, Commander of a Mountain Brigade, leading the Indian participants. This joint endeavor not only strengthens the defense capabilities of both nations but also promotes regional stability and cooperation in the South Asian context.

As regards other news along the international border, a suspected cattle smuggler met a tragic end when personnel from the Border Security Force (BSF) opened fire along the India-Bangladesh border in South Salmara-Mankachar district, Assam. The incident unfolded on Thursday evening, September 21, at approximately 7 PM, sending shockwaves through the local community. The deceased individual has been identified as Mintu Sheikh, a 27-year-old resident of Kanaimara village, nestled within the South Salmara-Mankachar district of Assam. Mintu Sheikh's untimely demise has raised questions about the circumstances leading up to the fatal encounter.

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