The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technological and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) nations are participating in their first military field training exercise, MILEX-18, at the Aundh Military Station, Pune, Maharashtra. This exercise aims to familiarize BIMSTEC Nations’ forces with counter-terrorist operations in a semi-urban setting.
BIMSTEC-MILEX 2018: First Military Field Training Exercise
BIMSTEC-MILEX 2018 is an initiative taken by BIMSTEC Nations to enhance their capabilities in terms of planning and executing counter-terrorist operations. Located at the Aundh Military Station in Pune, Maharashtra, this initial military drill aims to amplify proficiency, coordination, and cooperation among member nations’ armies. This exercise also fortifies the commitment towards joint strategic actions for regional peace and stability.
NOMADIC-ELEPHANT 2018: Indo-Mongolia Joint Exercise
The Indo-Mongolia joint exercise Nomadic Elephant-2018 is being held at the Mongolian Armed Forces’ Five Hills Training Area in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Established in 2006, this annual bilateral exercise aims to fortify the partnership between the Indian Army and Mongolian Armed Forces. The objective of this exercise is to advance tactical and technical skills in joint counter insurgency and counter-terrorist operations in both rural and urban settings.
Gatka: Traditional Martial Art Form
Gatka, a traditional martial art form associated with Sikh gurus, was earlier limited to gurudwaras, nagar kirtans, and akharas. However, with the establishment of the Gatka Federation of India (GFI) in 2008, it has now emerged as a designated sport. Gatka players, who have undergone rigorous training, participate at a national level. This martial art form is believed to have originated during the Mughal era when the sixth Sikh Guru Hargobind adopted Kirpan for self-defense, and later, the tenth Guru Gobind Singh mandated its use for self-protection.
Malignant Catarrhal Fever (MCF): An Infectious Livestock Disease
Malignant Catarrhal Fever (MCF), a devastating and rare livestock disease, has reemerged in Karnataka, affecting cattle owned by dairy farmers. The disease was first detected in the state a decade ago. MCF, an infectious viral illness that originates from South Africa, currently has no cure or preventative vaccine, posing a significant threat to livestock. It’s an urgent issue that needs addressing for the welfare of the farming community and to ensure the continuity of the dairy industry in the state.