India-Uzbekistan Dustlik 2026 begins in Namangan for joint special operations training

Direct fact

On 16 April 2026, the 7th edition of Exercise Dustlik began at the Gurumsaray Field Training Area in Namangan, Uzbekistan, with the Indian Army and the Uzbekistan Army scheduled to train until 25 April 2026.

Key specifics

• The exercise focuses on joint special operations and operational synergy.
• Training includes neutralisation of unlawful armed groups in mountainous and urban environments.
• The first edition of Dustlik was held in November 2019 at Chirchiq Training Area, Uzbekistan.
• Dustlik is conducted annually and hosted alternately by India and Uzbekistan.
• Major General Saidov Oybek Azadovich, Commander of the Eastern Military District of Uzbekistan, attended the opening.

Exam lens

Defence exercise question, Namangan, Gurumsaray Field Training Area, 16–25 April 2026, India and Uzbekistan — TNPSC may ask the first edition year, venue and objective of Dustlik.