International Military Exercise PRAGATI 2026 Kicks Off in Shillong

The PRAGATI 2026 military exercise has officially started at the Umroi Military Station in Shillong, bringing together armed forces from various countries. This two-week event aims to strengthen military cooperation and address common security challenges. Participants will engage in counter-terrorism operations and tactical drills in challenging terrains, while also showcasing indigenous technologies under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Major General Sunil Sheoran highlighted the importance of collaboration and learning from each other's experiences to achieve shared objectives. The exercise promises to enhance the adaptability and tactical proficiency of the troops involved.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 21, 2026, 11:27 IST

PRAGATI 2026 Military Exercise Commences

The main objective of PRAGATI is to strengthen military-to-military cooperation

SHILLONG, May 21: Military representatives from multiple nations have gathered at the Umroi Military Station in Ri-Bhoi district for the two-week-long PRAGATI 2026 military exercise, which commenced on Wednesday.

Participants include armed forces from Bhutan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.

The primary aim of PRAGATI is to enhance military cooperation, foster professional relationships, and develop a unified approach to shared security challenges among regional allies.

During the welcoming address, Major General Sunil Sheoran, the Additional Director General of Infantry of the Indian Army, emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts in tackling modern security issues. He urged participants to engage with openness, mutual respect, and a readiness to learn from each other's experiences, noting that the diverse strengths and viewpoints of each nation would aid in achieving common goals.

The exercise will concentrate on counter-terrorism tactics in semi-mountainous and jungle environments, along with training in joint planning, tactical drills, and coordinated operations aimed at enhancing the adaptability, endurance, and tactical skills of the troops involved.

Additionally, there will be a strong focus on physical fitness, discipline, and teamwork while operating under challenging conditions. Indian technology and defense firms will also present indigenous equipment and innovations as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative during the exercise.