The HIM TECH SYMPOSIUM 2024, a pivotal event focusing on enhancing combat readiness in high-altitude areas, was inaugurated by Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, Army Commander, Northern Command. The symposium took place at the Rinchen Auditorium in Leh, attended by a distinguished gathering of civil and military dignitaries.
Organized by the Indian Army in partnership with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), the event showcased the latest technological advancements tailored for high-altitude military operations. Over 90 vendors participated, demonstrating a wide array of cutting-edge technologies designed to operate in the extreme conditions characteristic of India’s mountainous terrains.
The symposium aligns with the #AtmanirbharBharat initiative, emphasizing the development and integration of indigenous technology solutions to bolster the Indian Army’s operational capabilities. These technologies cover various domains, including surveillance, communication, mobility, and logistics, all critical for maintaining and enhancing the effectiveness of troops stationed in high-altitude regions.
Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar highlighted the importance of self-reliance in defense technology, particularly the adaptations needed for the unique challenges posed by India’s border geography. He stressed the need for innovative solutions that can be rapidly deployed to ensure the safety and efficacy of the forces engaged in these strategic locations.
The HIM TECH SYMPOSIUM 2024 not only serves as a platform for displaying innovations but also fosters collaboration between the Indian Army, the domestic defense industry, and academia. This collaborative environment is crucial for accelerating the development of technologies that are both effective in high-altitude warfare and supportive of India’s broader defense strategy.
This event marks a significant step forward in preparing India’s armed forces for the complexities of modern warfare in mountainous and high-altitude environments, ensuring that they remain well-equipped and responsive to emerging threats.
Subedar Jeremy Lalrinnunga’s journey is one of inspiration, grit, and relentless determination. Hailing from the hilly town of Aizawl, Mizoram, this young man has not only made a name for himself as a weightlifting prodigy but also as a proud member of the Indian Army.
From winning India’s first-ever gold medal at the Youth Olympic Games to donning the uniform of a Subedar in the Indian Army, Jeremy’s story is a testament to his unwavering commitment to representing his nation with pride—both on and off the sporting field.
Early Life and Struggles
Born on October 26, 2002, in Aizawl, Jeremy Lalrinnunga grew up in a modest household. His father, Lalneihtluanga Ralte, was a notable boxer in Mizoram during the 1990s. However, financial constraints meant that pursuing sports was far from easy for the young Jeremy. Despite his father’s attempts to provide for the family by working as a contract laborer with the local Public Works Department (PWD), resources were always scarce.
Yet, what Jeremy lacked in resources, he made up for in ambition and passion. Inspired by his father’s sporting background, Jeremy initially showed an interest in boxing, but it was weightlifting where he found his true calling. From an early age, he displayed immense strength and technique, quickly becoming a force to reckon with on the weightlifting circuit.
Breakthrough at the Youth Olympics
Jeremy’s breakthrough moment came at the 2018 Summer Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires, Argentina. At just 16 years old, he clinched the gold medal in the Boys’ 62 kg weightlifting category with a total lift of 274 kg, which included 124 kg in snatch and 150 kg in clean and jerk. His victory was not just a personal achievement but a historic moment for India, as it marked the country’s first-ever gold medal at the Youth Olympic Games.
This win propelled Jeremy into the spotlight, and he quickly became a rising star in Indian sports. His journey, however, was far from over, as greater challenges awaited him in his pursuit of excellence.
Transition to the Indian Army
In May 2019, Jeremy made another significant leap in his life by joining the Indian Army as a Naib Subedar in the 17th Battalion of the Brigade of the Guards. This prestigious role not only brought him the honor of serving his country but also offered him the support and training facilities necessary to continue his weightlifting career. The discipline and structure of the army helped shape his athletic training, allowing him to maintain peak physical and mental form.
Being part of the army has given Jeremy a sense of responsibility and a deeper connection to his nation, further motivating him to bring glory to India, whether on the battlefield or in the weightlifting arena.
Continuing Success in Weightlifting
Jeremy’s list of achievements continued to grow. At the 2019 World Weightlifting Championships, he competed in the Men’s 67 kg category and ranked 21st. While this was a learning experience, it fueled his desire to push his limits further.
In 2022, Jeremy once again showcased his prowess on the international stage, winning a gold medal in the Commonwealth Games in the 67 kg category. With a game-record lift of 140 kg in snatch and 160 kg in clean and jerk, he demonstrated his exceptional strength and ability to thrive under pressure. His achievement cemented his reputation as one of India’s top weightlifters.
Challenges and Growth
Like every athlete, Jeremy has faced his fair share of challenges. Despite injuries and the pressure of international competitions, he has managed to keep a strong focus on his goals. His journey from a small town in Mizoram to becoming a national sports icon speaks volumes about his resilience and dedication.
Furthermore, being part of the Indian Army has ingrained in him a sense of discipline, which has been instrumental in his athletic career. The camaraderie and support from his fellow soldiers have provided him with the mental fortitude to overcome obstacles and continue his pursuit of excellence.
Jeremy Lalrinnunga’s story is an inspiring example of how sports and the armed forces can complement each other in shaping young talent. His rise from humble beginnings to Olympic glory and service in the Indian Army is a reminder of what can be achieved with hard work, determination, and a never-give-up attitude.
As he continues to lift for India, both as a soldier and an athlete, Jeremy serves as a role model for countless aspiring athletes across the country, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. His journey proves that no dream is too big, and with the right mindset and support, even the toughest challenges can be overcome.
In the years to come, India will undoubtedly look forward to many more awe-inspiring performances from this remarkable Subedar, as he continues to carry the hopes of a nation on his strong, capable shoulders.
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the results of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy Examination (II) 2024, held on 1st September 2024. Candidates who appeared for the examination can now check their results online.
The candidates who have qualified in the written examination are now eligible for interviews conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB) for admission to the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy for the 154th Course, as well as the 116th Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC) commencing on 2nd July 2025.
How to Check Your Result
The list of roll numbers for the candidates who have qualified is available on the official UPSC website at www.upsc.gov.in. All candidates who see their roll numbers in the list are advised to take the next steps promptly, as mentioned below.
Next Steps for Qualified Candidates
SSB Interview Registration: Qualified candidates are required to register online on the Indian Army Recruitment website joinindianarmy.nic.in within two weeks from the announcement of the result. This registration is necessary to receive details about the Selection Centre and the date for the SSB interview, which will be communicated via the registered email ID.
Important Note: Candidates who have previously registered on the website are not required to do so again. For any issues regarding login or registration, candidates can contact the Indian Army via email at [email protected].
SSB Interview and Submission of Original Documents: Candidates are also reminded to carry their original certificates related to age and educational qualifications during the SSB interview. These certificates must not be sent to UPSC but should be presented directly at the respective SSB centres.
For any queries or clarifications, candidates can reach out to the UPSC Facilitation Counter located near Gate ‘C’ of the UPSC office. The counter is available from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on working days. The following contact numbers can be used for further assistance:
The mark-sheets of the candidates will be made available on the UPSC website within 15 days from the publication of the final result, which will be after the completion of the SSB interviews. These mark-sheets will remain accessible on the website for a period of 30 days.
The NDA II 2024 examination serves as an important milestone for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. Congratulations to all the successful candidates, and best of luck for the next phase of the selection process!
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the results for the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) II, 2024, held on 1st September 2024. A total of 8,796 candidates have successfully cleared the exam and are now eligible to move forward in the selection process. These candidates will be interviewed by the Service Selection Board (SSB) under the Ministry of Defence, with the possibility of securing admission to prestigious defence academies.
Pathways for Successful Candidates
The CDS 2 2024 results are for admission into the following courses:
Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun: 159th (DE) Course commencing in July 2025.
Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala: Course commencing in July 2025.
Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad: Pre-Flying Training Course [218 F(P)] commencing in July 2025.
Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai:
122nd SSC (Men) (NT) Course commencing in October 2025.
36th SSC Women (Non-Technical) Course commencing in October 2025.
Candidates whose roll numbers appear in the qualified list will need to submit their original documents (proof of age, educational qualifications, NCC certificates, etc.) to the relevant branches of the Ministry of Defence. It’s important to note that these documents must be submitted by specific deadlines depending on the candidate’s first course preference:
IMA & INA candidates: No later than 1st July 2025.
AFA candidates: No later than 13th May 2025.
SSC candidates: No later than 1st October 2025.
Failure to submit the required documents by the specified deadlines may result in cancellation of their candidature.
Registration and SSB Interview Process
Candidates who have chosen the Indian Army (IMA/OTA) as their first choice must register themselves on the official recruitment website of the Indian Army, www.joinindianarmy.nic.in, to receive further instructions regarding the SSB interview. Those who have already registered are not required to do so again.
In case of any change in address, candidates should promptly inform the respective service headquarters (Army, Navy, or Air Force) based on their first choice.
Help and Clarifications
For any further queries or clarifications, candidates can reach the UPSC Facilitation Counter or use the following contacts:
The marks sheets of the qualified candidates will be made available on the UPSC website within 15 days of the final result of the OTA course, after the SSB interviews. These will remain accessible for a period of 30 days.
The CDS 2 2024 examination marks an important step for defence aspirants seeking to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. Best of luck to all candidates moving on to the next phase of selection!
The Indian Army, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), successfully hosted the second edition of the HIM-DRONE-A-THON at Wari La Pass, Ladakh, on September 17-18, 2024. This event marked a significant step in the Indian Army’s initiative to integrate cutting-edge indigenous drone technology for high-altitude military operations.
Over the course of two days, eight leading drone manufacturers participated in the event, displaying 15 advanced drones specifically designed for surveillance and First-Person View (FPV) operations. These drones were put to the test in the extreme conditions of Wari La, situated over 15,000 feet above sea level, where they demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability.
The rigorous testing environment provided a unique opportunity to evaluate the drones’ operational capabilities in some of the harshest terrains and climates, showcasing their potential to enhance the Indian Army’s surveillance and reconnaissance missions in mountainous regions.
Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla, SC**, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding of the Fire and Fury Corps, attended the event, emphasizing the crucial role of innovation and indigenous technology development in modern warfare. His presence highlighted the strategic importance of the event in aligning with the Indian Army’s focus on technology absorption.
The HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 is a part of the Indian Army’s declared ‘Year of Technology Absorption’, an initiative aimed at significantly boosting the operational capabilities of the army through technological advancements. The successful demonstration of these drones underlines India’s growing proficiency in developing and deploying technology solutions that meet specific defense needs, especially in challenging environments.
This event not only reinforced the Indian Army’s commitment to harnessing homegrown technologies but also showcased the potential collaborations between the military and the private sector to push the boundaries of what’s possible in defense technology.
Three BSF personnel lost their lives and 32 others were injured when a bus carrying them veered off a hilly road and fell into a gorge in the Brell Waterhail area of Central Kashmir’s Budgam district. The bus was engaged in election duty at the time of the accident.
Among the injured, six suffered serious injuries, and the civilian driver of the bus was also hurt.
These incidents have cast a spotlight on the risks faced by security forces during both routine and operational duties.
The BSF has expressed its commitment to supporting the injured personnel and their families during this challenging time, and to enhancing safety measures for its members.
In a separate but equally tragic incident, an accidental mortar bomb blast at Pokhran field firing range resulted in injuries to three Border Security Force (BSF) trainees during a practice session on Friday.
The incident occurred in the renowned training area in Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer district, a key site for military exercises.
According to sources within the BSF, the trainees were participating in a routine practice session when the mortar bomb unexpectedly detonated.
The injured jawans were swiftly transported to a local hospital in Pokhran where they are currently receiving medical treatment. Hospital authorities have confirmed that the jawans are under careful observation, and their conditions are being closely monitored.
BSF officials have launched a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident, aiming to prevent such occurrences in the future.
In a significant move towards embracing digital transformation, the Indian Army, in collaboration with leading industry experts and academia, conducted a pioneering ideation session on Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the ASC Centre and College in Bengaluru.
The AI Forum 2024 focused on leveraging AI technologies to enhance India’s defense mechanisms and preparedness.
Chaired by the Deputy Chief of Army Staff (DCOAS) for Information Systems and Coordination, the forum brought together prominent figures from the technology sector, academic pioneers, and military strategists to deliberate on the integration of AI in military operations.
The discussions aimed at identifying innovative AI applications that could lead to significant advancements in the Indian Army’s operational and strategic capabilities.
The AI Thought Forum was part of a broader initiative by the Indian Army’s Regional Technology Node in Bengaluru, which also included an Industry Technology Display.
This exhibition showcased various indigenous technological solutions, demonstrating the potential for home-grown innovation in bolstering defense readiness and technology infusion.
Key highlights from the forum included presentations on AI-driven surveillance systems, autonomous weaponry, and data-driven decision-making tools, all aimed at transforming the Indian Army into a more agile, efficient, and formidable force.
The participants explored the challenges and opportunities of integrating such advanced technologies within the existing military framework.
The event not only underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to modernizing its operations through technology but also facilitated a valuable exchange of ideas between the military and the private sector.
This collaboration is seen as a crucial step towards building a stronger, more technologically advanced defense infrastructure.
“Driving Innovation, Empowering Defence—building a stronger future together,” marks the vision set forth by the forum, highlighting a collective effort to harness the power of AI for securing a technologically robust defense posture for India.
This initiative is expected to pave the way for further innovations and a deeper integration of AI in various aspects of national security and defense strategy.
Lieutenant General Zubin A Minwala, AVSM, YSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Trishakti Corps, recently visited units deployed in the challenging super high-altitude areas of North Sikkim to assess their security and operational readiness.
During his visit, Lt Gen Minwala evaluated the strategic deployments and defense setups crucial for maintaining border security in the rugged terrain. The area’s extreme weather conditions and the high-altitude environment make operational readiness a complex challenge that requires meticulous preparation and adaptation.
The GOC expressed his appreciation for the dedication and professionalism displayed by the Trishakti Corps Warriors. He commended their resilience and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of operational effectiveness despite the harsh conditions.
His visit also served to boost the morale of the troops, reinforcing the importance of their role in national security.
Lt Gen Minwala’s visit underscores the Indian Army’s focused approach on ensuring the preparedness and welfare of its units stationed in critical frontier regions.
By directly engaging with the forces on the ground, he provided encouragement and confirmed the ongoing support from higher command for maintaining robust defense capabilities in one of the country’s most strategically sensitive areas.
The Trishakti Corps, known for its valor and operational acumen, continues to play a pivotal role in securing India’s borders in the eastern sector. The Corps’ readiness is vital for the overall security architecture, particularly in the context of the evolving regional security dynamics.
In a significant development, the Odisha Police has suspended five officers, including the Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Bharatpur Police Station, following the alleged assault and harassment of an Indian Army officer and his fiancée.
The suspended officials include IIC Dinakrushna Mishra, Sub-Inspector Baisalini Panda, Assistant Sub-Inspectors Salilamayee Sahoo and Sagarika Rath, and Constable Balaram Handa.
The incident reportedly occurred when the Army officer and his fiancée visited the Bharatpur police station late at night to lodge a complaint against some miscreants involved in a road rage incident.
Instead of receiving assistance, the couple allegedly faced physical assault and harassment by the police personnel, leading to significant public and institutional outrage.
The ordeal described by the fiancée, who is also a lawyer, involved brutal physical assault and deeply inappropriate conduct by the police, culminating in her being jailed without proper justification.
Following an intense public backlash and scrutiny from various legal and governmental bodies, the Orissa High Court intervened, granting bail to the fiancée and criticizing the handling of the matter by the lower court.
The National Commission for Women has taken suo motu cognizance of the incident, demanding a detailed report and appropriate action against the involved officers.
In response to the incident and the subsequent legal proceedings, hundreds of ex-servicemen gathered in Bhubaneswar to protest, calling for stringent action and a judicial inquiry into the misconduct of the police personnel.
This case has highlighted critical issues regarding police conduct and the protection of citizen rights under the law, sparking a broader discussion on police accountability and the treatment of military personnel and their families in civilian jurisdictions.
The ongoing investigation by the Crime Branch aims to uncover the full extent of the misconduct and ensure justice for the affected individuals.
In a significant demonstration of international cooperation and women empowerment, women soldiers from the Indian and US Armies showcased exceptional leadership and teamwork in the joint exercise Yudh Abhyas 2024 at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan.
This year’s exercise emphasized the role of women in defense, marking a historic celebration of ‘Nari Shakti’ – the power of women. Women soldiers from both nations played central roles across all facets of the exercise, from tactical planning and field operations to assuming leadership positions, effectively highlighting their prowess and critical contributions to military capabilities.
The joint exercise not only fostered greater cooperation between India and the United States but also served as a platform for these women to demonstrate their strength, resilience, and professionalism. Participating in rigorous tactical operations that demand precision and stamina, these women soldiers exemplified what it means to lead from the front, thereby breaking traditional barriers in defense roles.
As they navigated through challenging scenarios that tested their skills and teamwork, the women showcased that effective military performance transcends gender, with their participation underscoring the growing inclusivity in the armed forces. This dynamic involvement of women in significant combat and leadership roles paves the way for a more inclusive future in the defense sectors of both countries.
The success of Yudh Abhyas 2024 stands as a proud testament to the evolving dynamics of international military cooperation, where diversity and empowerment play key roles in enhancing joint operational success. The exemplary performance of these women soldiers not only reinforces the importance of integrating women into all aspects of military operations but also highlights the positive impact of such integration on global security and cooperation.
The ongoing commitment of both the Indian and US armies to promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment within the military is poised to inspire future generations of women soldiers worldwide, further strengthening the global commitment to an inclusive and balanced approach to defense.
