The Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Gaya was buzzing with excitement during the Spring Term 2024 as the Officer Cadets showcased their skills and teamwork in the Inter Company Basketball Championship. In a nail-biting tournament, Rezang La Company emerged as the champions, demonstrating exceptional performance and sportsmanship.

The OTA in Gaya is a prestigious pre-commission training school, established in 2011, with a targeted training capacity of 750 cadets. The academy is designed to groom Gentlemen Cadets into the Indian Army’s professionally competent commissioned officer corps. The Inter Company Basketball Championship is one of the many events that test the cadets’ physical and mental abilities, as well as their capacity to work as a team.

The championship was a high-energy affair, with teams competing fiercely for the top spot. Each game was intense, with the cadets displaying excellent skills, strategic planning, and, above all, a spirit of camaraderie. Despite the competitive environment, the games were conducted with the utmost respect and sportsmanship, reflecting the academy’s values.

Rezang La Company’s journey to the championship was marked by determination and resilience. Throughout the tournament, they faced tough opponents, but their commitment to teamwork and rigorous training ultimately led them to victory. Their winning performance in the final match was a testament to their hard work and dedication.

The OTA Gaya is renowned for its motto, “Shaurya, Gyan, Sankalp” (Courage, Knowledge, Determination), and this championship perfectly embodied those principles. Cadets from all companies showed courage in the face of adversity, knowledge in their strategic gameplay, and determination to succeed. Rezang La Company’s victory was a fitting conclusion to an exciting championship.

A Focus on Teamwork and Excellence

The Inter Company Basketball Championship is more than just a sports event. It is an opportunity for the Officer Cadets to demonstrate their leadership skills, teamwork, and resilience. The championship underscores the importance of these qualities in the military, where success often depends on the ability to work effectively as a team.

As the Spring Term 2024 concluded with Rezang La Company lifting the trophy, the academy reaffirmed its commitment to developing not only skilled officers but also well-rounded individuals who embody the academy’s core values. The success of the championship is a testament to the OTA Gaya’s dedication to excellence and its role in shaping the future leaders of the Indian Army.

Lt Gen Manjinder Singh, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s ARTRAC, recently visited the Counter-Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School (CIJWS) in Vairengte, Mizoram. During his visit, he examined the school’s advanced training methods designed to prepare students for sub-conventional warfare. He also took a close look at the infrastructure supporting these innovative training initiatives.

The Counter-Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School, established in 1967, has long been a premier institution for training in guerrilla warfare and counter-insurgency techniques. The school’s focus is on unconventional warfare, with an emphasis on real-world scenario exercises, jungle survival, and ambush tactics. The motto “Fight the guerrilla like a guerrilla” encapsulates the school’s approach to training.

During his visit, Lt Gen Manjinder Singh was briefed on the school’s efforts to integrate niche technologies to improve readiness, resilience, and adaptability in operations. These technologies are designed to give soldiers the tools they need to excel in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The General Officer also interacted with a group of 11 officers from friendly foreign countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, France, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Lt Gen Manjinder Singh highlighted the importance of training today’s soldiers to harness the power of technology and innovation. He stressed that a modern soldier must constantly sharpen their skills and refine their tactics to maintain operational readiness. This approach is crucial for the Indian Army as it continues to adapt to emerging threats and challenges.

The CIJWS plays a critical role in preparing soldiers for deployment in challenging environments, particularly in the North Eastern Region of India. The school’s training program includes a wide range of skills, such as jungle ambush attacks, improvised explosive device (IED) defusal, and counter-terrorism. These skills are vital for soldiers operating in areas where insurgency and guerrilla tactics are common.

The school’s history is rich with examples of its contribution to the Indian Army’s success in counter-insurgency operations. Initially established as the Jungle Training School in 1967 in Jowal hills, Meghalaya, it was renamed CIJWS in 1970. Since then, it has played a significant role in training Indian Army personnel and other paramilitary and police forces.

CIJWS has also opened its doors to international cooperation, welcoming soldiers from various countries to participate in its training programs. This initiative began in 2001, with the first batch consisting of three US Army officers. Over the years, the school has hosted troops from the US, France, UK, Singapore, Bangladesh, Nepal, Israel, and Italy, fostering international partnerships and knowledge exchange in counter-insurgency operations.

The visit by Lt Gen Manjinder Singh underscores the ongoing efforts to keep the CIJWS at the forefront of training excellence. With its unique focus on counter-insurgency and jungle warfare, the school continues to be a center of excellence for preparing soldiers to meet the complex challenges of modern warfare.

In a remarkable display of camaraderie and spirit, the Indian Navy’s Motor Bike Expedition team, aptly named ‘Rhino Ride,’ embarked on a historic journey to commemorate the 25th Anniversary celebration of INS Brahmaputra.

The expedition, which was flagged off from Mumbai on April 18, 2024, has been making waves as it traverses across the length and breadth of the country, spreading the message of unity and solidarity.

After covering numerous milestones along their route, the Rhino Ride team achieved yet another feat as they reached the vibrant city of Bhopal. Their arrival was met with great enthusiasm and reverence, especially as they were honored with a special interaction with Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh, the General Officer Commanding of Sudarshan Chakra Corps.

In a gesture of appreciation and admiration for their endeavor, Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh felicitated the riders, acknowledging their dedication and commitment to the cause.

The Rhino Ride expedition comprises a dedicated team of ’12 Rhino Riders,’ each embodying the ethos of service and resilience that defines the armed forces of India.

Their mission is clear: to cover a total distance of 3000 kilometers, from the bustling metropolis of Mumbai to the serene Brahmaputra River at the Kaziranga National Park in Assam. Along the way, they aim to promote greater Tri-Service camaraderie and Spirit De-Corps, fostering a sense of unity and pride among the armed forces fraternity.

As they navigate through diverse terrains and landscapes, the Rhino Riders serve as ambassadors of goodwill and unity, symbolizing the unwavering bond that unites the Indian Navy, Army, and Air Force.

Their journey is not merely a physical one but a symbolic representation of the indomitable spirit and collective resolve of the armed forces to overcome any challenge that comes their way.

The Rhino Ride expedition exemplifies the essence of service beyond self, encapsulating the values of courage, determination, and teamwork that are synonymous with the armed forces ethos.

Through their inspiring journey, the riders seek to inspire and uplift, reminding the nation of the sacrifices made by our brave men and women in uniform, and the unwavering commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.

As the Rhino Ride team continues on their odyssey, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of a grateful nation, symbolizing the spirit of resilience and unity that defines the armed forces of India. Their journey is not just a ride; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of service and sacrifice that continues to inspire generations of Indians across the country.

In a heartwarming display of solidarity and support for the nation’s veterans, the Armoured Corps Centre & School (ACCS) recently spearheaded the third edition of its acclaimed Veterans Outreach Program, aptly named ‘Project Sathiya.’

Held in the serene environs of Gundegaon, Ahmednagar, this initiative aimed to address various concerns surrounding the welfare of our esteemed veterans, who have dedicated their lives to the service of the nation.

Under the overarching theme of ‘We Care,’ the event witnessed a multifaceted approach towards enhancing the well-being of veterans and their families. Central to the program was the distribution of informative booklets titled ‘SATHIYA’ and ‘After Me,’ meticulously designed to provide veterans with easy access to crucial information pertaining to their entitlements, benefits, and support services.

The occasion served as a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between the armed forces fraternity and its veterans, symbolizing a commitment to stand by those who have selflessly served the nation.

Through ‘Project Sathiya,’ ACCS reinforced its dedication to ensuring that no veteran feels forgotten or overlooked, extending a helping hand in times of need.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, [Name of the Official], [Designation], expressed profound gratitude towards the veterans for their invaluable contributions and sacrifices. He emphasized that ‘Project Sathiya’ embodies the ethos of camaraderie and compassion that defines the armed forces community, underscoring the collective responsibility to uphold the welfare of our veterans.

The event also provided a platform for veterans to voice their concerns and seek guidance on various matters related to post-retirement life.

Expert panels comprising representatives from the armed forces, government agencies, and welfare organizations were on hand to address queries and offer assistance, further amplifying the impact of the outreach program.

As the sun set on Gundegaon, the echoes of camaraderie and solidarity resonated throughout the venue, serving as a testament to the unwavering spirit of service and sacrifice that unites the armed forces family. With ‘Project Sathiya,’ ACCS reaffirmed its commitment to standing shoulder to shoulder with veterans, ensuring that their legacy continues to be honored and their welfare remains a top priority.

In the spirit of ‘We Care,’ ‘Project Sathiya’ encapsulated the collective resolve to uphold the principles of dignity, respect, and support for our veterans, embodying the timeless ethos of service before self that defines the armed forces of India.

In a testament to the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to operational excellence and the welfare of its personnel, Lieutenant General A K Singh, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Southern Command, undertook a comprehensive visit to the Thiruvananthapuram Military Station.

During his visit, Lt Gen A K Singh meticulously reviewed the operational preparedness of the formation, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of defense readiness.

With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of modern warfare dynamics, Lt Gen A K Singh commended the troops of the Southern Command for their exceptional professionalism and dedication to duty.

He lauded Team Amphibians for upholding the highest standards of excellence, which are in line with the Indian Army’s transformative initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and combat readiness.

As part of his visit, Lt Gen A K Singh also unveiled a significant initiative aimed at promoting the holistic well-being of the troops and their families. In a gesture of profound care and concern, he inaugurated the Harmony Holistic Wellness Centre, a state-of-the-art facility designed to cater to the physical, mental, and emotional needs of the military personnel and their loved ones.

The Harmony Holistic Wellness Centre represents a paradigm shift in the approach to healthcare within the armed forces, emphasizing the importance of holistic wellness and preventive care.

Equipped with modern amenities and staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, the center is poised to become a beacon of health and healing for the military community in Thiruvananthapuram and beyond.

The inauguration of the Harmony Holistic Wellness Centre underscores the Indian Army’s steadfast commitment to the well-being of its personnel, recognizing that their health and happiness are integral to operational readiness and mission success.

Lt Gen A K Singh’s visionary leadership and proactive approach to welfare initiatives reaffirm the Army’s resolve to prioritize the welfare of its soldiers and their families.

As the Southern Command continues to uphold the highest standards of operational preparedness and welfare support, Lt Gen A K Singh’s visit to the Thiruvananthapuram Military Station serves as a testament to the Army’s unwavering commitment to excellence in all endeavors.

His interaction with #TeamAmphibians and the inauguration of the Harmony Holistic Wellness Centre symbolize the Indian Army’s holistic approach to ensuring the well-being and resilience of its personnel, even in the face of evolving challenges and complexities.

In a significant step towards enhancing bilateral defense cooperation, General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of India, engaged in productive discussions with his French counterpart, General Thierry Burkhardt, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CEMA) of France.

The high-level interaction between the two military leaders aimed to foster closer ties and address mutual security concerns between India and France.

During the meeting, held in a spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect, General Chauhan and General Burkhardt exchanged views on a wide range of strategic issues, including defense collaboration, regional security dynamics, and shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening defense ties and exploring avenues for closer military exchanges between their respective nations.

A focal point of the discussions was the exploration of opportunities for joint training, exercises, and interoperability initiatives aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the armed forces of both India and France.

The leaders underscored the importance of leveraging each other’s strengths and expertise to address evolving security threats and challenges effectively.

As a symbol of the longstanding friendship and cooperation between India and France, General Chauhan was accorded the prestigious Guard of Honour by the French Republican Guard.

The ceremonial gesture highlighted the respect and admiration shared between the two nations and underscored their commitment to strengthening defense ties through mutual respect and cooperation.

The meeting between General Chauhan and General Burkhardt exemplified the spirit of strategic partnership and collaboration that characterizes the relationship between India and France.

Both leaders expressed optimism about the future trajectory of defense cooperation between the two countries and reiterated their commitment to working together towards shared security objectives.

The discussions between General Chauhan and General Burkhardt laid the groundwork for further engagement and collaboration in the defense domain, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in areas such as defense technology, maritime security, and counterterrorism.

The meeting served as a testament to the deep-rooted friendship and strategic alignment between India and France, reflecting their shared commitment to promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and beyond.

In a significant display of bilateral cooperation, the 7th Edition of the Indo-US Joint Counter Terrorism Exercise, ExTARKASH2024, kicked off today in Kolkata.

This high-profile exercise brings together elite units from the National Security Guard (NSG) of India and the Special Operations Forces (SOF) of the United States, marking another milestone in the strategic partnership between the two nations.

ExTARKASH2024, commonly known as Tarkash, is designed to bolster interoperability and collaboration between the NSG and US SOF.

The exercise aims to facilitate the exchange of best practices, tactical drills, and procedures in counter-terrorism operations, fostering a deeper understanding and synergy between the special forces of both countries.

The inauguration ceremony of ExTARKASH2024 witnessed the presence of senior military officials, dignitaries, and representatives from both India and the United States.

The event underscored the shared commitment of the two nations to combatting the global menace of terrorism through joint training and cooperation.

Speaking at the ceremony, officials emphasized the importance of Tarkash in strengthening the capabilities of both the NSG and US SOF in countering evolving threats and emerging challenges posed by terrorism.

They highlighted the significance of collaborative exercises like Tarkash in enhancing operational preparedness and response effectiveness in the face of complex security scenarios.

Over the course of the exercise, participants will engage in a series of training modules and simulations focused on counter-terrorism tactics, hostage rescue operations, close-quarters combat, and urban warfare techniques.

The exchange of expertise and experiences between the NSG and US SOF is expected to facilitate mutual learning and skill enhancement, further deepening the operational synergy between the two elite forces.

ExTARKASH2024 serves as a testament to the enduring partnership and mutual trust shared between India and the United States in addressing common security challenges. By conducting joint exercises of this nature, both countries reaffirm their commitment to promoting peace, stability, and security in the region and beyond.

As Tarkash unfolds over the coming days, the participating forces will work closely to refine their capabilities, strengthen their operational coordination, and enhance their readiness to respond effectively to the dynamic and evolving threat landscape of modern-day terrorism.

The 7th Edition of ExTARKASH2024 is poised to set new benchmarks in Indo-US defense cooperation and pave the way for even closer collaboration between the NSG and US SOF in the realm of counter-terrorism.

Through shared learning and joint action, the special forces of both nations stand ready to confront and defeat the scourge of terrorism, safeguarding the values of freedom, democracy, and security for all.

In a bid to foster environmental awareness and promote sustainable practices, White Tiger Division, under the leadership of Maj Gen M K Mathur, spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative on Earth Day.

The division hosted the prestigious India Green Summit 2024 at the Jhansi Cantonment in collaboration with the esteemed Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (@IITKanpur).

The summit served as a platform for engaging with top environmental analysts, experts, and entrepreneurs from across the country.

Distinguished guests convened to deliberate on pressing environmental issues and explore innovative solutions aimed at mitigating the impact of climate change while ensuring national security and environmental sustainability.

Maj Gen M K Mathur, GOC White Tiger Division, led the dialogue, emphasizing the critical intersection between national security and environmental stewardship.

He underscored the importance of integrating sustainable practices into military operations to minimize ecological footprint and preserve natural resources.

The India Green Summit 2024 featured a diverse range of discussions, workshops, and presentations on cutting-edge sustainable technologies and best practices.

Experts shared insights on renewable energy, waste management, water conservation, afforestation, and other key areas critical for environmental conservation and sustainable development.

The collaboration with IIT Kanpur added a significant academic dimension to the summit, leveraging the institute’s expertise in research and innovation.

Participants had the opportunity to explore the latest advancements in green technologies and gain valuable insights into emerging trends shaping the future of environmental sustainability.

Throughout the summit, participants engaged in robust discussions, exchanging ideas and experiences to catalyze action towards a greener and more sustainable future.

The event served as a catalyst for fostering collaboration and partnerships between the military, academia, industry, and civil society to address environmental challenges collectively.

As Earth Day serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to protect and preserve our planet, initiatives like the India Green Summit 2024 highlight the proactive efforts undertaken by the armed forces to lead the charge towards environmental stewardship.

By embracing sustainable practices and leveraging technology and innovation, the military continues to demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding both national security and the environment for generations to come.