The joint exercise carried out by the Indian Air Force and the Army in the central sector is significant due to the following reasons:

• Enhancing Interoperability: The exercise is aimed at enhancing interoperability between the Indian Air Force and the Army, which would enable them to work in tandem and operate seamlessly during a joint operation.
• Combat Readiness: Such exercises are crucial for both the forces to maintain combat readiness in the event of a conflict situation arising. It is important that the two forces maintain coordination and synchronization while working together.
• Learning: The exercise enables the two forces to learn from each other's capabilities and limitations, which would help them during joint operations. It would also enable them to understand each other's needs and capabilities better.
• Preparedness: Such exercises enable the forces to be better prepared for any eventualities and contingencies that may arise. They help in identifying gaps and weaknesses in joint operations and correcting them before they become operational liabilities.
• Strategic Significance: The joint exercise carries strategic significance for India, which needs to be prepared for any military challenge arising from either of its two hostile neighbours.

In conclusion, the joint exercise carried out by the IAF and the Army serves as a crucial aspect of preparedness for the Indian forces, especially in the current geopolitical scenario.