ExerciseExercise MAITREE-XV between the Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army is currently underway, showcasing the growing defence cooperation between the two nations.

The joint exercise is being conducted with full vigour, focusing on counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in jungle and urban environments. It highlights the shared commitment of India and Thailand to strengthen military-to-military ties and enhance operational synergy.

Meanwhile, in Manipur, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh chaired a high-level security meeting at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat on Thursday evening. The meeting was convened in response to the 15-day ultimatum issued earlier on August 12, directing individuals in possession of illegal weapons to surrender them. Officials confirmed that the meeting was also prompted by Thursday’s tragic incident along the IT Road in Kangpokpi district, where four innocent civilians were brutally gunned down.

The government condemned the killings in the strongest terms. The Chief Minister instructed security officials to apprehend and take strict action against the perpetrators. The meeting resolved that stringent measures would be taken against any individual, regardless of community, found in possession of illegal arms and weapons.

It was further decided that cadres of militant outfits under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement or engaged in peace talks with the government would face serious consequences if found carrying weapons outside their designated camps.

The developments underscore the fragile security situation in Manipur, where ethnic tensions and insurgent activities continue to pose challenges.

The state government’s decision to enforce strict measures against illegal arms possession reflects its determination to restore peace and stability. At the same time, the ongoing Exercise MAITREE-XV with the Thai Army demonstrates India’s broader regional focus on strengthening defence cooperation and preparedness against unconventional threats.