Description

Source: TOI

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Context

The Indian Army recently conducted a large-scale integrated field training exercise named Exercise Teesta Prahar at the Teesta Field Firing Range in West Bengal close to the strategically significant Siliguri Corridor.

Features of the Exercise

Integrated Participation

Included combat arms (Infantry, Armoured, Artillery) and support arms (Engineers, Signals, Army Aviation).

Para Special Forces and Mechanised Infantry played a significant role in tactical drills.

Modernisation in Action

Showcased next-generation weapon systems and newly inducted military platforms.

Tested advanced battlefield technologies including surveillance, communication and precision targeting.

Realistic Terrain Simulation

Conducted in riverine terrain mimicking real combat conditions.

Featured battle rehearsals, adaptive manoeuvres and dynamic scenario simulations.

Jointness and Synergy

Emphasis on joint operations, inter-operability and seamless coordination among various units and arms.

Demonstrated the Army's ability to conduct operations under adverse weather and terrain conditions.

Teesta River

Aspect	Details
Origin	Tso Lhamo Lake, Sikkim (Eastern Himalayas, India)
Length	Approximately 414 km
Flow Path	India (Sikkim, West Bengal) and Bangladesh
Tributaries	Rangeet River (major tributary), Lachung Chu, and Lachen Chu
Confluence	Joins the Brahmaputra River (known as Jamuna in Bangladesh) near Fulchhari
Major Cities/Towns	Gangtok, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Rangpo, Melli
Hydropower Projects	Teesta Stage I to VI (multiple projects in Sikkim and West Bengal)
Geopolitical Importance	Key water-sharing issue between India and Bangladesh
Ecological Significance	Supports rich biodiversity, agricultural livelihoods, and riverine ecosystems
Disputes/Concerns	India-Bangladesh water-sharing treaty (pending), frequent flash floods

Chicken’s Neck

Aspect	Details
Alternative Name	Siliguri Corridor
Location	West Bengal
Width	Approximately 20–25 km wide
Length	Around 200 km
Connects	Indian mainland with its 8 northeastern states
Boundaries	Bordered by Nepal (west), Bhutan (north), Bangladesh (south)
Strategic Importance	Only land route linking NE India with rest of the country; vital for military logistics
Vulnerabilities	Highly sensitive to military blockades or disruption in case of conflict
Nearby Military Concerns	Close to Doklam plateau (India-China-Bhutan tri-junction)

Sources:

TOI

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Discuss the importance of integrated military exercises such as Exercise Teesta Prahar in enhancing India’s operational preparedness and strategic deterrence. 250 words