The 8th edition of the India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise, KAZIND-2024, officially commenced at the Surya Foreign Training Node in Auli, Uttarakhand. Running from September 30 to October 13, 2024, this annual exercise has been a platform for military collaboration since its inception in 2016. The previous edition took place in Otar, Kazakhstan, from October 30 to November 11, 2023.
The Indian Armed Forces are represented by a battalion from the KUMAON Regiment, along with personnel from other arms and services, including the Indian Air Force. The Kazakhstan contingent primarily comprises soldiers from the Land Forces and Airborne Assault Troopers.
The primary objective of KAZIND-2024 is to enhance the joint military capabilities of both nations, specifically focusing on counter-terrorism operations in sub-conventional scenarios under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The exercise will emphasize operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrains, aiming to improve physical fitness, refine tactical drills, and share best practices.
Key tactical drills during the exercise will include joint responses to terrorist actions, the establishment of a Joint Command Post, and the creation of an Intelligence and Surveillance Centre. Other operations will involve securing helipads, conducting combat free-fall and special heliborne operations, as well as Cordon and Search operations, utilizing drones and counter-drone systems.
KAZIND-2024 will facilitate the exchange of tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting joint operations, fostering interoperability and camaraderie between the two armies. This exercise is expected to significantly enhance defence cooperation, further strengthening the bilateral relations between India and Kazakhstan.
