India is training armed forces personnel from Sri Lanka in different states of the country including Tamil Nadu as part of exchange programmes with neighbouring countries, the Rajya Sabha was informed yesterday.

"Yes, training exchanges are being conducted between armed forces personnel of India and various neighbouring countries including Sri Lanka... In Tamil Nadu, two Sri Lankan personnel are being trained at the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington," Defence Minister A.K Antony said in a written reply.

The question on the issue was put by DMK MP Kanimozhi, whose party along with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and AIADMK chief J. Jayalalithaa have been demanding the expulsion of Sri Lankan armed forces personnel from India.

More than 450 personnel from the Sri Lankan armed forces are undergoing training at defence establishments in India including in Bangalore, Kannur and Belgaum, according to Defence Ministry sources.