Umroi, Meghalaya – In a significant boost to regional defence cooperation, the Indian Army is set to host the inaugural edition of the multilateral military exercise Exercise PRAGATI at the Foreign Training Node in Umroi, Meghalaya, from May 18 to 31, 2026.
The exercise, formally known as Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region, will bring together military delegations from 11 friendly foreign countries. This maiden multilateral drill on Indian soil underscores India’s commitment to strengthening defence ties, enhancing interoperability, and fostering mutual trust among participating nations under its Act East Policy.
Participating Nations
The confirmed participants include troops and delegates from Laos, Myanmar, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Philippines, Nepal, Maldives, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Bhutan. While invitations were extended to around 15 countries, these 11 have confirmed their participation, reflecting strong regional engagement spanning India’s immediate neighbourhood and Southeast Asia.
Objectives and Focus
Exercise PRAGATI aims to promote joint training, share best practices, and improve operational coordination among regional armies. It symbolises a shared commitment to collective security, regional stability, and collaborative growth in the Indian Ocean Region. The two-week programme will feature tactical drills, discussions, and activities designed to build interoperability and preparedness for common challenges.
A highlight of the event will be a defence industry exposition on May 30–31, organised in collaboration with FICCI. This expo will showcase indigenous Indian defence equipment and capabilities to the participating nations, further supporting self-reliance in defence and potential export opportunities.
Strategic Importance of the Venue
The choice of Umroi in Meghalaya is strategically significant. Located in India’s Northeast, the Foreign Training Node serves as a key hub for military training and outreach, positioning the region as a bridge for deeper connectivity with Southeast Asian partners. This aligns with India’s broader vision of enhanced engagement with eastern neighbours.
The Indian Army has described the exercise as a landmark initiative that reinforces defence diplomacy and collective efforts toward peace and stability. As global security dynamics evolve, platforms like Exercise PRAGATI are expected to play a vital role in building resilient regional partnerships.
This first edition of PRAGATI marks a new chapter in India’s multilateral military engagements and is anticipated to pave the way for future editions with broader participation.
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