Question 63 from UPSC CSE 2024 - Current Affairs (Internal Security)

Question

Which of the following statements about 'Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023' are correct?
1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. 2, 3, and 4

Strategy: Focus on the participating countries first. Mitra Shakti is a well-known India-Sri Lanka exercise, not with Bangladesh, so eliminate all options containing statement 1. Next, recall that the 2023 edition started in Aundh (Pune), confirming statement 2. The theme of such joint exercises generally involves counter-terrorism operations, which supports statement 3. Lastly, knowledge that Air Force units participated in 2023 lets us accept statement 4. Thus, option D (2, 3, and 4) is correct.

Key Info: **Exercise Mitra Shakti Overview**

Exercise Mitra Shakti is an annual bilateral military exercise conducted between the armies of India and Sri Lanka.

**Objectives:**
*   Foster cooperation, interoperability, and coordination.
*   Enhance joint responses in sub-conventional and counter-terrorism operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
*   Focus on tactical operations like raids, search and destroy missions, heliborne operations, and securing critical infrastructure.

**2023 Edition Details (Ninth Series):**
*   **Dates:** November 16th to 29th
*   **Location:** Aundh Military Station, Pune, Maharashtra
*   **Participants:**
    *   Indian contingent: Troops from The Maratha Light Infantry Regiment, Indian Air Force
    *   Sri Lankan contingent: Personnel from the 53 Infantry Division, Sri Lankan Air Force
*   **Drills Involved:** Casualty evacuation, use of helicopters, employment of drones, and counter-unmanned aerial system operations.

The exercise highlights the growing defence partnership and mutual trust, contributing to regional security and stability.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: 1, 2, and 3

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: 1, 2, and 4

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: 1, 3, and 4