Why in News
An Indian contingent departed for the 12th edition of Mitra Shakti, being held in Sri Lanka from November 13 to 26, 2026.
Prelims Pointers
- Mitra Shakti is an annual India–Sri Lanka joint military exercise, hosted alternately by the two countries.
- The 2026 venue is the Army Training School, Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka.
- Training focuses on counter-terrorist operations in semi-urban conditions under a United Nations mandate.
- The Indian contingent includes personnel from the Rajputana Rifles and the Indian Air Force.
Prelims Traps
- “Mitra Shakti is an India–Bangladesh exercise.” This is incorrect. It is conducted between India and Sri Lanka. (UPSC Prelims 2024)
- “The Indian Air Force did not participate in Mitra Shakti-2023.” This is incorrect. The Indian Air Force participated, and that edition was held at Aundh, Pune. (UPSC Prelims 2024)