Defence & SecurityImportant2024-12-02

India-Malaysia Joint Military Exercise Harimau Shakti 2024

In News

What Happened

The joint military exercise 'Harimau Shakti 2024' between the Indian Army and the Malaysian Army commenced on December 2, 2024. The exercise took place at Bentong Camp in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It brought together personnel from the Mahar Regiment of the Indian Army and the Royal Malaysian Regiment.

Why It Matters

This exercise is crucial for strengthening defense cooperation and interoperability between India and Malaysia in jungle warfare and counter-insurgency. It reinforces India's 'Act East Policy' and enhances the readiness of both armed forces to participate in global peacekeeping operations under a United Nations mandate.

Background

History & Context

Exercise Harimau Shakti is an annual bilateral military training event between India and Malaysia that was first initiated in 2012. The exercise is held alternately in India and Malaysia to build mutual trust and share tactical expertise. The training is specifically aligned with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, focusing on sub-conventional operations and regional security in the Indo-Pacific.

What Changed

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BEFORE: The previous edition of the exercise in 2023 was hosted by India at Umroi Cantonment in Meghalaya. NOW: The 2024 edition was hosted by Malaysia at Bentong Camp, following the established alternating host arrangement.
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BEFORE: Different Indian Army regiments participate each year to broad-base the training experience. NOW: For the 2024 edition, the Indian contingent was specifically represented by a battalion of the Mahar Regiment.
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BEFORE: Earlier joint trainings often focused on broader conventional military coordination. NOW: The 2024 phase heavily emphasized advanced simulated operations, including anti-MT ambushes, harbour occupation, and specialized jungle counter-insurgency tactics.

Prelims Angle

NCERT Connection

This event connects to Class 12 Political Science Chapter 4 - 'India's External Relations'. It serves as a practical application of India's foreign policy, specifically demonstrating the military and strategic dimensions of the 'Act East Policy' in building strong bilateral ties with Southeast Asian nations.

Practice Questions

Q1

Correct Statement(s)

Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Exercise Harimau Shakti?

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