♦ The 13th edition of the joint military Exercise KHANJAR between India and Kyrgyzstan began at Misamari in Sonitpur district of Assam on 3 February 2026.

♦ This aims to enhance interoperability between the Special Forces of both nations, with a focus on joint operations in urban warfare and counter-terrorism scenarios under the United Nations mandate.

♦ This KHANJAR exercise will further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and deepen the enduring military partnership between India and Kyrgyzstan.

♦ The 14-day-long military exercise concludes on 17 February. 

♦ India and Kyrgyzstan organising joint military exercises annually since 2011, with venues alternating between the countries to reflect deepening defence ties. 

♦ The 12th edition was conducted in March 2025 in Kyrgyzstan, and included intensive exercises in sniping, complex building intervention, mountain craft and specialised counter‑terrorism drills, alongside high‑altitude operations and cultural exchanges that reinforced camaraderie between the contingents.