Background of the Exercise
Sanjha Shakti Exercise and Disaster Response Readiness: Exercise Sanjha Shakti was conducted in January 2026 to strengthen preparedness for disaster and emergency situations. The exercise was organised by the Indian Army under the Southern Command.
The drill focused on improving cooperation between armed forces and civilian authorities. Such coordination is critical during natural disasters, industrial accidents, and internal security challenges.
Static GK fact: The Indian Army follows a command-based structure, with each command responsible for operational readiness in its designated region.
Location and Operational Setting
The exercise was conducted at the Dighi Hills Range, located in Pune, Maharashtra. The terrain offers a realistic environment for simulating complex disaster and security scenarios.
Dighi Hills has previously been used for field-level training and operational readiness drills. Its proximity to urban and semi-urban areas makes it suitable for testing public safety responses.
Static GK Tip: Pune is a major defence hub, hosting several training establishments of the Indian armed forces.
Participating Agencies and Scale
More than 350 personnel participated in Exercise Sanjha Shakti. The Indian Army coordinated with 16 civilian agencies, reflecting a whole-of-government approach.
Key participants included the Maharashtra Police, Force One, fire services, and disaster response teams. The scale of participation ensured realistic inter-agency coordination.
The involvement of multiple agencies tested the ability to function under a unified command structure. This is essential during real-life emergencies where time-sensitive decisions are required.
Static GK fact: Force One is Maharashtra’s specialised counter-terrorism and rapid response unit, headquartered in Mumbai.
Core Objectives of Sanjha Shakti
A primary objective was to improve interoperability among military and civilian responders. Communication protocols were tested to ensure clarity during emergencies.
The exercise also evaluated decision-making capabilities under pressure. Simulated disaster scenarios required rapid assessment and coordinated action.
Another key focus was strengthening disaster management capacity. Rapid deployment, evacuation procedures, and public safety measures were rehearsed.
Static GK Tip: Interoperability refers to the ability of different organisations to operate together effectively using shared procedures and communication systems.
Strategic and Security Significance
Exercise Sanjha Shakti was conducted under the Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa Area, highlighting regional security integration. Emphasis was placed on rear area security and civilian protection.
The drill reinforced the concept that disaster response is a joint responsibility. Military support to civil authorities plays a crucial role during large-scale emergencies.
Such exercises also align with India’s broader approach to Military-Civil Fusion, where defence resources support national resilience beyond conventional warfare.
Static GK fact: The Indian armed forces are frequently deployed for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations during floods, cyclones, and earthquakes.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Sanjha Shakti Exercise and Disaster Response Readiness:
| Topic | Detail |
| Exercise Name | Sanjha Shakti |
| Conducting Force | Indian Army |
| Command | Southern Command |
| Location | Dighi Hills Range, Pune, Maharashtra |
| Time Period | January 2026 |
| Participating Agencies | Indian Army and 16 civilian agencies |
| Personnel Involved | Over 350 |
| Core Focus | Civil–military coordination and disaster response |
| Strategic Value | Public safety and hinterland security |
