Indian Army and Japan Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF) launched the 5th joint military exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ on 25 February 2024. This exercise between the Indian Army and JGSDF is being conducted from 25 February to 9 March 2024 at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan.

Highlights of the 5th Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’:

'Dharma Guardian' exercise is held annually as a military drill.
It is organized alternately in India and Japan.
In this exercise, 40-40 soldiers are included in the contingent of both the countries.
Soldiers from the 34th Infantry Regiment are representing the Japanese contingent.
The Indian Army contingent is being represented by a battalion of Rajputana Rifles.

Objective of Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’:

The exercise aims to enhance military cooperation between the two nations.
The objective is to enhance joint capabilities to carry out joint operations in peri-urban settings under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
The exercise will focus on high level physical fitness, joint planning, joint tactical exercises and special weapons skills.

Highlights of Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’:

During this exercise to be conducted between the Indian Army and JGSDF, special focus will be given to the following:
- Establishing temporary operating bases in tactical exercises
- Creating an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Grid
- Setting up mobile vehicle check post
- To conduct cordon and search operations in an adversary and enemy area.
- Heliborne operations and house intervention drills will be included.
Weapons and equipment reflecting the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative and the country’s growing defence industrial capability will be showcased.

Visit of Japanese Lieutenant General Togashi Yuichi to India:

On the occasion of 'Exercise Dharma Guardian', Japan Ground Self Defense Force, Eastern Army, Commanding General, Lieutenant General Togashi Yuichi will also visit India.
The General Officer will visit Mahajan Field Firing Range on 3 March 2024.
During this they will witness Combat Shooting Demonstration, Special Heliborne Operation (SHBO) and House Intervention Drill.

Benefits of Exercise:

Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ will enable both the countries to share their best practices in tactics, techniques and procedures in conducting strategic operations.
This exercise will also help in enhancing inter-operability, camaraderie and cooperation between the troops of both the sides.
This will promote defense cooperation between the two countries and strengthen bilateral relations between the two friendly countries.

About Japan:

Capital: Tokyo
Currency: Yen
Prime Minister: Fumio Kishida
King: Prince Naruhito
Naruhito is the 126th king of Japan. The reign of Prince Naruhito will be known as 'Reiwa'.
Naruhito inherited the throne from his father Akihito. Akihito always remained sensitive during his reign. Whereas his father King Hirohito's identity was militaristic.