CONTENTS

1. Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR
2. International Film Festival of India (IFFI)

Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR

Context:

Recently, the Indo-US Joint Special Forces exercise “VAJRA PRAHAR 2023” commenced at the Joint Training Node, Umroi, Meghalaya.

Relevance:

GS III: Security Challenges

Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR 2023: Strengthening Indo-US Defence Ties

• Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR is a joint military exercise conducted between the Indian Army and the US Army Special Forces.
• Aim and Focus:  Aims to share best practices and experiences in crucial areas like joint mission planning and operational tactics.

Edition:

• Marks the 14th edition of the Indo-US Joint Special Forces exercise “VAJRA PRAHAR 2023.”
• Commenced at the Joint Training Node, Umroi.

Participating Forces:

• The US contingent is represented by personnel from the 1st Special Forces Group (SFG) of the US Special Forces.
• The Indian Army contingent is led by Special Forces personnel from the Eastern Command.

Historical Context:

• The inaugural edition took place in 2010 in India.
• The 13th edition was conducted at the Special Forces Training School (SFTS), Bakloh (HP).

Duration and Location:

• The current edition is hosted at Umroi Cantonment, Meghalaya.
• Scheduled from 21st November to 11th December 2023.

Objectives:

• Serve as a platform to enhance inter-operability and strengthen defence cooperation between the armies of India and the United States of America.

Strategic Significance:

• Underscores the commitment of both nations to fostering strategic ties and building mutual trust through collaborative military exercises.

International Film Festival of India (IFFI)

Context:

The 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) recently commenced with a grand opening ceremony at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Panaji, Goa.

Relevance:

Facts for Prelims

Dimensions of the Article:

1. International Film Festival of India (IFFI): Celebrating Cinematic Excellence
2. International Federation of Film Producers and Associations (FIAPF)

International Film Festival of India (IFFI): Celebrating Cinematic Excellence

Founding and Evolution:

• Established in 1952 under the patronage of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
• Organized by the Films Division, Government of India.
• The inaugural edition took place in Mumbai, later moving to various cities.

Competitive Format:

• Transformed into a competitive event from its third edition.

Shift to Goa:

• Permanently relocated to Goa in 2004.
• An annual and competitive event conducted jointly by the Government of Goa and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Accreditation:

• The only film festival in South Asia accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers and Associations (FIAPF).

Objectives:

• Provides a common platform for global cinemas to showcase film art excellence.
• Contributes to understanding and appreciating film cultures worldwide.
• Promotes friendship and cooperation among people globally.

Role in Indian Cinema:

• Aims to inspire and encourage Indian cinema, fostering its potential and placing it on par with international standards.

International Federation of Film Producers and Associations (FIAPF):

• An international organization representing film producers globally.
• Comprising 37 producer organizations across 30 countries on five continents.
• Dedicated to defending and promoting the legal, economic, and creative interests of film producers worldwide.
• Advocates for producers and coordinates political action in key industry areas.