Dhaka: Indian and Bangladeshi forces today
launched a joint exercise in the northeastern Sylhet as part
of efforts to deepen military ties and cooperation in
counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.
The 14-day exercise that will continue till October 22 is
the second phase of `Op Sampriti`.
An Indian Air Force plane carrying 25-members of army
team, led by Major S Y Mahadik, reached Osmani International
Airport in Sylhet from Jorhat, a defence ministry statement
said.
"This is the second phase of `Op Sampriti` which is aimed
to develop professional expertise of both the armies and
strengthen military to military relationship," an army
spokesman said.
The first phase of `Op Sampriti` was held at Jorhat in
Assam from November 1-4 last year.
Indian army sources earlier said the two sides would
"practice counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations
under the UN mandate".
India is fielding around 40 troops of its elite 21 Para
(Special Forces) battalion for the exercise whereas the
Bangladesh Army has deployed one of its Para Commando
battalions.
Indian officials in New Delhi said the two sides are
aiming to further enhance their mutual understanding through
increased military-to-military contacts.
Military relations between the two sides received a boost
when Indian Army Chief General V K Singh visited Dhaka last
year and gifted howitzers and modern computers to the
Bangladesh Army.
PTI
