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 ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
• Exercise Mitra Shakti is the annual bilateral military exercise between India and Sri Lanka, begun in 2012; statement 1, which names Bangladesh, is wrong (India–Bangladesh exercise is 'Sampriti').
• Statement 2 is correct: the ninth edition, Mitra Shakti-2023, was held from 16 to 29 November 2023 at Aundh, Pune.
• Statement 3 is correct: its aim was to practise joint response to sub-conventional threats and counter-terrorism operations under Chapter VII of the UN Charter.
• Statement 4 is correct: for the first time the exercise included the Indian Air Force along with the Sri Lanka Air Force, besides the two armies.
• Hence 2, 3 and 4, option (d).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1, 2 and 3
- Statement 1 is wrong: Mitra Shakti is with Sri Lanka, not Bangladesh.
- (b) 1, 2 and 4
- Statement 1 is wrong; statement 3 on counter-terrorism is correct.
- (c) 1, 3 and 4
- Statement 1 is wrong; statement 2 on the Pune venue is correct.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2024, held on 16 June 2024. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.