Ladakh Scouts

The 13th edition of Exercise Maitree, scheduled from July 1 to 15, 2024, in Tak Province, Thailand, marks a pivotal moment in rekindling collaborative military efforts between India and Thailand post the global pandemic hiatus. Originally launched in 2006 as the Thai-Indian Cooperation Field Exercise (TICAFE) and rebranded in 2013 to “Maitree” meaning “friendship” in Hindi, this exercise symbolizes a deepened commitment to fostering military camaraderie. With both countries alternating hosting duties annually, the drill features balanced deployment, with 76 personnel each from India’s Ladakh Scouts and Thailand’s 1st Battalion, 14 Infantry Regiment. Guided by Chapter VII of the UN Charter, the primary objective is to enhance combined capabilities in counter-insurgency and anti-terrorism operations, focusing on urban and jungle environments.