India–Japan Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ Begins in Uttarakhand

The 7th edition of the annual India–Japan Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ commenced at the Foreign Training Node in Chaubattia, Uttarakhand, involving troops from the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF).

The exercise, scheduled from February 24 to March 9, 2026, features 120 personnel from each side. The JGSDF contingent is represented by troops from the 32nd Infantry Regiment, while the Indian side is drawn from the Ladakh Scouts.

Held alternately in India and Japan, DHARMA GUARDIAN is a key component of defence cooperation between the two nations. The exercise aims to enhance military collaboration and interoperability, particularly in conducting joint operations in semi-urban environments.

Source: PIB