India–Nepal Conduct First High-Level Military Drill After Gen-Z Uprising

Surya Kiran 19 became the first India–Nepal military exercise reviewed by both nations’ DGMOs. Held in Pithoragarh, the drill focused on counter-terrorism, AI-based warfare and strengthening strategic ties amid Nepal’s recent political upheaval.

Post Published By: Karan Sharma

Updated : 9 December 2025, 8:10 PM IST

Surya Kiran 19 Marks New Strategic Partnership

New Delhi: The joint military exercise ‘Surya Kiran’ between India and Nepal has been a strong pillar of the defense and strategic relations between the two countries. This year's 19th edition, held from November 26 to December 8, 2025, in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, was historic in several ways.

First participation of the Nepalese Army after the Gen-Z movement

This was the first time the Nepalese Army participated in a major joint exercise with India after the recent youth-led uprising (Gen-Z movement) in Nepal. This indicates that Nepal's new caretaker government and army want to further strengthen their military ties with India.

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First-ever review of the exercise by the DGMOs

The most significant aspect of Surya Kiran-19 was that, for the first time, the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries reviewed the exercise.

• From India: Lieutenant General Manish Luthra
• From Nepal: Major General Anup Jung Thapa

Until now, the exercise was reviewed by the commanders of the field formations. The DGMO-level participation reflects the growing strategic trust between the armies of both countries.

Exercise conducted under the UN Counter-Terrorism Framework

This was a battalion-level exercise conducted under the UN Counter-Terrorism Charter.
The armies of both countries rehearsed intelligence-driven surgical operations based in mountainous and jungle areas, including:

• AI-based surveillance systems
• Drone-based precision targeting
• Day-night weapon sights
• ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance) technology
• Wartime secure communication systems

This strengthened mutual understanding and coordination between the armies of both countries in modern warfare techniques.

DGMOs commend the exercise

According to the Indian Army statement, considering the strategic challenges of the Himalayan region, this exercise enhances operational interoperability between the two armies. The DGMO stated that this exercise has strengthened mutual trust, strategic preparedness, and long-term military cooperation.

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Background of Political Changes within Nepal

Following the major youth uprising in Nepal in 2025— both Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and the President were forced to resign.
Former Supreme Court judge Sushila Karki was appointed as the new interim Prime Minister.

The Oli government was considered close to China, and Nepal had also raised a dispute over India's Kalapani region. Amidst such political turmoil, Suryakiran-19 is considered a significant step towards stability and cooperation in India-Nepal relations.