Exercise Dharma Guardian: 7th Edition of Exercise Commences in Chaubattia, Uttarakhand

Exercise Dharma Guardian 2026: The 7th edition of the Joint Military Exercise 'DHARMA GUARDIAN' officially commenced on February 24 to 9th March 2026. It is set against the rugged backdrop of Chaubattia in Uttarakhand, this annual event serves as a cornerstone of the burgeoning defense cooperation between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF).

The 2026 edition of the exercise is scheduled to take place over two weeks (February 24 to 9th March 2026). This year together a 120-member contingent from each side, with the JGSDF represented by troops from the 32nd Infantry Regiment and the Indian Army contingent drawn from the Ladakh Scouts. The exercise is held alternately in India and Japan and remains a key pillar of defence cooperation between the two nations.

Key Objectives 

The Core aim of Exercise Dharma Guardian is to foster Military Cooperation, enhance interoperability and synchronize tactical procedures between the two forces and enhance combined capabilities to execute joint operations in semi-urban environments under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. The Exercise would focus on a high degree of physical fitness, joint planning, joint tactical drills and basics of special arms skills.

 Training Modules

During the two-week duration, the troops will engage in a variety of high-intensity tactical activities, including:

• Intelligence & Surveillance: Development of an integrated Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) grid.

• Tactical Drills: Establishment of Temporary Operating Bases and mobile Vehicle Check Posts (VCP).

• Specialized Missions: Cordon and search operations, heliborne missions, and house intervention drills in hostile environments.

• Physical Conditioning: Rigorous fitness regimes to ensure operational readiness in challenging terrains.

Source: PIB 

Significance: 

The 6th edition of Excercise Dharma Guadian's 6the edition was held at the East Fuji Training Area in Japan in 2025, while the 5th edition took place in Rajasthan, India in 2024.

The institutionalization of this exercise reflects a growing professional alignment and mutual trust between both countries beyond tactical combat skills, the exercise underscores a shared vision for a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific'' which allows both nations to exchange best practices and refine joint planning processes, which is crucial for addressing non-traditional security threats and regional instability. As global security dynamics evolve, the 7th edition of Dharma Guardian stands as a testament to the enduring friendship and military synergy between India and Japan, fostering a stable, rules-based order across the continent. 

The 7th edition of Exercise Dharma Guardian, a joint military drill between the Indian Army and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, has commenced in Chaubattia, Uttarakhand. Running from February 24 to March 9, 2026, the exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability, tactical procedures, and joint operations in semi-urban environments. It underscores the growing defense cooperation and shared vision for a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific," addressing regional security threats.