A 60-member Indian Armed Forces contingent has departed for Oskemen in Kazakhstan to participate in KAZIND-2026, a joint military exercise between India and Kazakhstan.
The exercise is aimed at strengthening military cooperation between the two countries and improving their ability to work together during counter-terrorism operations under a United Nations mandate.
During the exercise, troops from both countries will take part in joint training and tactical activities designed to improve coordination and operational readiness. The drills will include responses to terrorist threats, raids, search-and-destroy operations and special helicopter-based missions.
The Indian contingent includes personnel from a battalion of the Garhwal Rifles, along with members of other branches of the Indian Armed Forces and personnel from the Indian Air Force.
The participating troops will operate together in simulated operational situations. The training is expected to provide both sides with an opportunity to exchange military experience, improve communication and understand each other’s operational procedures.
KAZIND-2026 will continue until early October. The exercise is expected to focus on practical cooperation and joint preparedness rather than only classroom-based training.
India and Kazakhstan have maintained defence and security cooperation through regular military exchanges and exercises. KAZIND is part of these efforts to strengthen professional relationships between the armed forces of the two countries.
The joint drill will also provide an opportunity for the participating personnel to develop mutual trust and improve their ability to coordinate during complex operations.
Through KAZIND-2026, India and Kazakhstan are seeking to strengthen their defence partnership while supporting broader efforts related to regional peace, security and counter-terrorism cooperation.