India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Military Exercise KHANJAR Begins in Assam | 06 Feb 2026

Why in News? 

The 13th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise ‘KHANJAR’ commenced in Misamari, Assam. 

Key Points 

• Venue: The Exercise was Conducted at Misamari, Sonitpur district, Assam. 
• Participating Forces: Involves Indian Army Special Forces and Kyrgyz Armed Forces Special Forces contingents. 
• Focus: Covers urban warfare drills, counter-terrorism operations, and joint tactical training simulating complex scenarios. 
  • To strengthen operational interoperability, combined combat readiness, and bilateral defence cooperation. 
• Historical Context: Exercise KHANJAR began in 2011, held annually with alternating venues in India and Kyrgyzstan.  
• Civil-Military Cooperation: Exercises include coordination with local administration and security agencies for realistic operational scenarios. 
• Significance: Enhances India-Kyrgyzstan defence ties, contributes to regional stability in Central and South Asia, and strengthens counter-terrorism cooperation.