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 correct answer using the code given below :
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 correct 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
Answer: D
Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect as ‘Exercise MITRA SHAKTI- 2023’ is a joint military exercise between India and Sri Lanka, not Bangladesh. Statement 2 is correct, as the ninth edition of the exercise indeed commenced in Aundh (Pune). Statement 3 is correct, as a key objective of the exercise is to synergize joint responses during counter-terrorism operations. Statement 4 is also correct, as personnel from the Indian Air Force participated in the exercise. Therefore, statements 2, 3, and 4 are correct. This question assesses knowledge of recent defence exercises, a recurring theme in UPSC Current Affairs.