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PolitySource: Press Information Bureau

Indian Army Contingent Departs for India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK

Monday, 13 April 2026
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Key Points

The Indian Army contingent has departed for the 7th edition of Exercise DUSTLIK in Uzbekistan, enhancing military cooperation. This matters for UPSC aspirants as it relates to GS Paper 2 and 3, focusing on international relations and security. Last Updated: 13-04-2026

Key Facts About Exercise DUSTLIK

  • Exercise DUSTLIK was first held in 2019 as an annual bilateral event.
  • The 7th edition is hosted in Namangan, Uzbekistan.
  • It involves tri-services integration training with Uzbekistan Armed Forces.
  • The primary objective is to enhance joint operational capabilities in semi-mountainous terrain.
  • Focus areas include joint tactical drills, strike missions, and land navigation exercises.
  • The exercise culminates in special operations to neutralize unlawful armed groups.
  • The Indian contingent includes 60 personnel, with 45 from the MAHAR Regiment and 15 from the Indian Air Force.

Uzbekistan's Strategic Importance in Central Asia

Uzbekistan, a landlocked country in Central Asia, plays a strategic role in regional geopolitics. It is bordered by five countries, enhancing its significance in India's engagement with Central Asia. The country's strategic location and resources make it a key partner in India's regional strategy, contributing to economic and security goals.

UPSC Relevance

GS Paper 2: International Relations - India and its neighborhood relations.
GS Paper 3: Security challenges and their management in border areas.
Prelims angle: Questions on Exercise DUSTLIK's objectives, participating countries, and key features.
Mains angle: Analytical themes on India's military diplomacy and strategic partnerships.
Essay Paper: Topics on international cooperation and regional security dynamics.

FAQ Section

  • What is Exercise DUSTLIK?
    Exercise DUSTLIK is an annual bilateral military exercise between India and Uzbekistan, focusing on enhancing joint operational capabilities.
  • Why is Exercise DUSTLIK important?
    It is crucial for strengthening military cooperation, enhancing interoperability, and sharing best practices in joint operations between the two nations.
  • What are the key features of Exercise DUSTLIK?
    The exercise includes joint tactical drills, strike missions, land navigation exercises, and culminates in special operations to neutralize unlawful armed groups.

Detailed Coverage

  • Indian Armed Forces participating in the 7th edition of DUSTLIK.
  • Event held in Namangan, Uzbekistan.
  • Aims to enhance bilateral military cooperation.
  • First held in 2019, conducted alternately in India and Uzbekistan.
  • Features tri-services integration training.
  • Focus on strengthening defence cooperation.
  • Joint operations in semi-mountainous terrain.
  • Includes joint tactical drills and strike missions.
  • Training emphasizes physical fitness and joint planning.
  • Indian contingent comprises 60 personnel.
  • Uzbekistan contingent also includes approximately 60 personnel.
  • Exercise scheduled from 12 to 25 April 2026.
  • Joint training to culminate in a 48-hour validation exercise.
  • Focus on neutralizing unlawful armed groups.
  • Aim to enhance interoperability and operational synergy.
  • Facilitates camaraderie between soldiers of both nations.
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Practice Questions

Test your understanding of this article

Question 1 of 50 / 5 answered
1

The geographical terrain which poses unique challenges and requires specialized training for military operations, particularly in the context of the DUSTLIK exercise, is best described as what type of terrain?