India–Japan Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ Begins in Uttarakhand

The seventh edition of the annual joint military exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ between India and Japan commenced on Monday at the Foreign Training Node in Chaubattia, located in Uttarakhand. Scheduled to run from February 24 to March 9, 2026, the exercise marks another significant step in deepening defence cooperation between the two countries.

The ongoing edition brings together 120 troops each from the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. The Japanese contingent is represented by personnel from the 32nd Infantry Regiment, while the Indian side is led by troops from the Ladakh Scouts. Held alternately in India and Japan, Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN has emerged as a key pillar of bilateral military engagement and operational cooperation.

The exercise is designed to strengthen military collaboration and enhance the combined capability of both forces to conduct joint operations in a semi-urban environment. Over the course of the next two weeks, participating troops will focus on improving physical endurance, refining joint planning mechanisms, and synchronising tactical drills. Emphasis has been placed on the employment of modern technologies, improved interoperability, and contemporary operational practices relevant to evolving security challenges.

Training activities during the exercise include establishing temporary operating bases, developing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance grids, setting up mobile vehicle check posts, and conducting cordon and search operations in hostile environments. The troops will also practice heliborne operations and house intervention drills, aimed at enhancing coordination and responsiveness in complex operational scenarios. The exercise reflects the shared commitment of India and Japan to strengthening defence ties and promoting stability through closer military cooperation.

Reference:PIB