Bangladesh Skips India's First Multinational Military Exercise 'Pragati'

Bangladesh has opted out of India's inaugural multinational military exercise, Exercise Pragati, despite initially responding positively to the invitation, highlighting the continuing strain in bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries.

The exercise, formally known as Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region (PRAGATI), was conducted from May 18 to May 30 at the Indian Army's Field Training Node in Umroi, Meghalaya. The multinational event brought together more than 400 military personnel from 13 countries across South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean region.

According to Indian Army officials, participating nations included India, Bhutan, Cambodia, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia and Laos. Although Bangladesh was among approximately 15 countries invited to join the exercise, it ultimately did not send a military contingent.

The absence comes amid ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh following the political developments in Bangladesh in August 2024, which saw the removal of the government led by Sheikh Hasina. Relations between the two countries have since witnessed periods of unease, marked by critical statements and diplomatic disagreements.

The Indian Army described Exercise Pragati as a platform designed to promote military cooperation, interoperability and mutual trust among friendly nations. Conducted in the spirit of equality, friendship and mutual respect, the exercise enabled participating forces to exchange operational experiences, share best practices and strengthen regional security cooperation.

The maiden edition focused primarily on counter-terrorism operations in semi-mountainous and jungle environments. Troops underwent extensive training through lectures, demonstrations and field exercises before participating in a 72-hour validation exercise that tested operational readiness and coordination.

Training modules included rock craft, jungle lane shooting, ambush and counter-ambush drills, slithering operations, improvised explosive device (IED) detection, room and vehicle intervention techniques, and casualty evacuation procedures. Mixed teams comprising personnel from different countries trained together to enhance interoperability and build professional relationships.

Senior military leaders from participating nations, including six vice chiefs and more than 40 high-ranking officers, attended the concluding events. Indian Army officials said the exercise demonstrated a shared commitment among regional partners to addressing common security challenges through cooperation, capacity building and collective preparedness.