The 11th annual joint military exercise, SAMPRITI, between India and Bangladesh took off on Oct 3, 2023 in Umroi, Meghalaya. This exercise is a result of strong collaboration between the two countries in defence. It began in 2009 in Jorhat, Assam, and has had ten successful editions until 2022.
The fortnight long SAMPRITI-XI will involve about 350 participants from both sides. The main goal of the exercise is to improve how the two armies work together, share tactical techniques, and learn from each other’s best practices.
The Bangladesh side has 170 members, led by Brigadier General Mohammed Mafizul Islam Rashed, Commander of the 52 Bangladesh Infantry Brigade, with the 27 Bangladesh Infantry Regiment as the lead unit. The Indian contingent is mainly made up of troops from a battalion of the RAJPUT Regiment, led by Brigadier SK Anand, Commander of a Mountain Brigade. The exercise will also involve personnel from various units like artillery, engineers, and other support services from both sides.
SAMPRITI-XI focuses on Sub-Conventional Operations, following Chapter VII of the UN mandate. It includes a Command Post Exercise (CPX) and a Field Training Exercise (FTX), concluding with a Validation Exercise.
During the CPX, 20 officers from each contingent will focus on decision-making after thorough discussions. The FTX will then validate grassroots-level operations and involve joint tactical drills for counter-terrorist operations, including hostage rescue, crowd control, and helicopter use. The Validation Exercise will take place on October 14th and 15th, 2023, in Darranga Field Firing Range, Assam. Throughout the exercise, participants will also get to see the capabilities of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ equipment.
SAMPRITI-XI aims to strengthen defence cooperation between India and Bangladesh, leading to deeper bilateral relations, cultural understanding, and mutual benefits from shared experiences in Sub Conventional Operations.