Q. 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 answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1, 2 and 4
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4
Correct answer: (d) 2, 3 and 4
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 GS Paper
Explanation:
EXERCISE MITRA SHAKTI 2023
The 9th edition of the India-Sri Lanka joint military exercise “Mitra Shakti-2023” commenced on November 16, 2023 in Aundh (Pune). The exercise aims to jointly rehearse sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, with a focus on synergising joint responses during counter-terrorist operations.
The Indian contingent includes 120 personnel from the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment and 15 air warriors and officers from the Indian Air Force (IAF), while the Sri Lankan side is represented by personnel from the 53 Infantry Division and five personnel from the Sri Lankan Air Force. Therefore, statements 2, 3 and 4 are correct, while statement 1 is incorrect as the exercise is between India and Sri Lanka, not Bangladesh.
Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1977339