Shakti 2021: India-France to hold 6th edition of Army exercise
Indian Army is set to conduct the sixth edition of the biennial training exercise with French Army from November 15, 2021, in series of joint training exercises with friendly nations.
Key Points
- India has already conducted joint Naval exercises and Air Force exercises with France earlier in 2021.
- Shakti 2021 will be conducted from November 15 to November 26 in Frejus, France.
- In the exercise, platoon strength of a Gorkha Rifles Infantry Battalion will participate, representing India.
- French army will be represented by troops of 21st Marine Infantry Regiment of the 6th Light Armoured Brigade.
Significance of the exercise
The Shakti 2021 exercise will focus on Counter Terrorism operations in light of semi-urban terrain under the mandate of United Nations. It will be conducted with the aim of enhancing military cooperation and inter-operability between the armies of both the country.
Last edition of Shakti exercise
The last edition of the Shakti exercise was organised in the year 2019, at the Foreign Training Node in Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan. In this edition of the exercise, armies practised and validated the Counter Terrorism operations in semi-desert terrain.
Gorkha Rifles contingent
Indian Army is being represented by Gorkha Rifles contingent. It has a rich heritage which is marked by its military valour and supreme sacrifices. It has a glorious history of 68 years. The contributions of contingent in 1971 war were recognised by Theatre Honour of Jammu & Kashmir and Battle Honour Shingo River Valley.
French Army contingent
The French Army contingent was set up in 1831 under the name ‘2nd Marine Regiment’. It was later renamed as 21st Marine Infantry Regiment in 1901. It has an illustrious operational history of 120 years. The contingent has participated in all the major wars of French Army.
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Month: Current Affairs - November, 2021