Lt. Gen. DS Kushwah, Chief of Staff at the Headquarters of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC), recently visited the School of Artillery (SoA) in Devlali. During his visit, he received a comprehensive briefing on the various training activities and the ongoing development projects aimed at enhancing the training infrastructure.

Lt. Gen. Kushwah toured the work sites to evaluate the progress of the development projects. His interaction with the Commandant centered around key issues such as training methodologies, equipment usage, infrastructure improvements, and the integration of advanced technology into course curriculums.

The Chief of Staff expressed appreciation for the efforts undertaken by the Training Establishment, acknowledging their commitment to excellence in training, technological advancement, and infrastructure development.

The visit underscores the Indian Army’s focus on modernizing its training programs and fostering innovation in artillery training.

In a landmark development, the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) has forged a strategic partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 22nd April 2024.

The MoU, signed by Director General Armed Forces Medical Services Lt Gen Daljit Singh and Director of IIT Delhi Prof Rangan Banerjee, aims to foster collaborative research and training initiatives to address the unique healthcare challenges faced by serving soldiers in diverse terrains.

The scope of the MoU encompasses a wide range of activities, including research and innovation to develop novel medical devices and solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of armed forces personnel.

With IIT Delhi boasting a robust biomedical research ecosystem, the collaboration is poised to leverage the technical expertise and resources required to tackle complex medical issues, including the rehabilitation of amputees and other battlefield injuries.

One of the key objectives of the partnership is to facilitate a vibrant exchange of knowledge and expertise between AFMS and IIT Delhi.

This will be achieved through various initiatives such as faculty exchange programs, joint academic activities, and the development of collaborative PhD programs, aimed at nurturing a cadre of researchers equipped to address the healthcare needs of the armed forces.

Speaking on the occasion, Lt Gen Daljit Singh underscored AFMS’s unwavering commitment to providing the highest level of medical care to soldiers.

He emphasized that collaboration with institutes of national importance like IIT Delhi is a significant step towards fulfilling this commitment and ensuring the well-being of the armed forces personnel.

Echoing similar sentiments, Prof Rangan Banerjee expressed optimism about the possibilities offered by the MoU.

He highlighted the potential for joint research and training endeavors to yield innovative solutions that would not only benefit the armed forces but also contribute to the broader national healthcare landscape.

The signing of the MoU between AFMS and IIT Delhi heralds a new era of collaboration aimed at harnessing the power of research and innovation to address the healthcare needs of the armed forces.

It underscores the importance of forging partnerships between academic institutions and defense organizations to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful change.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh recently described the Siachen Glacier as India’s “capital of valour and bravery.” This title is not merely symbolic; it encapsulates the spirit of the Indian armed forces, whose personnel endure harsh conditions to maintain India’s security in this high-altitude region.

Rajnath Singh’s visit to Siachen was significant, as he acknowledged the troops’ unwavering commitment and highlighted the strategic importance of the glacier. Situated in the eastern Karakoram range, Siachen is the world’s highest battlefield, with altitudes exceeding 20,000 feet. Despite extreme weather and challenging terrain, Indian soldiers have been stationed here for decades, demonstrating unparalleled resilience.

Honoring the Unseen Heroes

The Defense Minister’s visit aimed to bolster morale and recognize the sacrifices made by soldiers stationed in Siachen. The icy landscape has been the backdrop for intense military operations, but the day-to-day lives of these troops are often overlooked. Rajnath Singh’s remarks during the visit served as a reminder that the soldiers’ courage goes beyond the call of duty, with many facing life-threatening conditions and prolonged isolation.

Siachen’s strategic location has made it a point of contention between India and Pakistan for decades. The glacier has witnessed numerous conflicts, yet it remains a testament to the resolve of the Indian armed forces. Despite ceasefire agreements, the area is constantly monitored, and troops must remain vigilant to ensure national security.

A Legacy of Bravery

The designation of Siachen as India’s “capital of valour and bravery” acknowledges the sacrifices of past and present soldiers. The site has a storied history, with Indian forces first establishing a presence in 1984 during Operation Meghdoot. Since then, troops have continuously guarded the glacier, adapting to the harsh environment and reinforcing India’s claim over the territory.

Rajnath Singh’s visit emphasized that Siachen represents more than just a strategic location—it symbolizes the indomitable spirit of the Indian armed forces. The recognition of bravery and courage at Siachen is not limited to official visits or ceremonies. It is an ongoing legacy shaped by the countless stories of heroism and selflessness that emerge from this inhospitable region.

The Defense Minister’s remarks serve as a reminder that the men and women stationed at Siachen are among the most dedicated and courageous in the world. Their commitment ensures the safety and sovereignty of India, often at great personal risk. The title “capital of valour and bravery” is well-deserved and underscores the profound respect and gratitude the nation holds for its military personnel in this challenging environment.

Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, the Army Commander of the Northern Command, conducted a visit to the Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.

The purpose of the visit was to review the operational preparedness of troops stationed in the area and inspect the medical facilities at the forward Field Hospital. Given the harsh environment and high-altitude conditions, medical readiness is crucial for the troops’ safety and health.

During the visit, Lieutenant General Kumar expressed his appreciation for the personnel’s dedication and professionalism in maintaining high standards of operational readiness despite the extreme weather and isolation inherent in the Siachen region.

He noted that the continuous efforts by the stationed soldiers contribute significantly to national security and territorial integrity.

Additionally, the Army Commander recognized Pratap Pur Military Station with the Best Green Station award. This recognition reflects the station’s efforts in promoting environmental sustainability and green initiatives in the face of challenging conditions. Lieutenant General Kumar commended the station’s ranks for their commitment to eco-friendly practices, emphasizing the importance of such efforts in military installations.

The visit not only highlighted the operational and medical readiness in Siachen but also the importance of sustainability and environmental consciousness in the military. This dual focus on preparedness and sustainability aligns with broader goals of operational excellence and ecological responsibility within the armed forces.

In a significant stride towards enhancing support for veterans, Lieutenant General PC Nair, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, PhD, Director General of Assam Rifles, inaugurated the first-ever ARESA (Assam Rifles Ex-Servicemen Association) center in Maharashtra.

The inauguration ceremony, held on the sidelines of an Ex-Servicemen rally organized by Assam Rifles in Nashik, marks a milestone in providing comprehensive assistance to more than one thousand veterans from Maharashtra and adjoining states.

The establishment of the ARESA center in Nashik underscores Assam Rifles’ unwavering commitment to the welfare and well-being of ex-servicemen, offering them a dedicated platform to access a wide range of support services and benefits.

With Lieutenant General PC Nair at the helm, the inauguration ceremony was a momentous occasion, symbolizing the organization’s enduring dedication to serving those who have bravely served the nation.

The newly inaugurated ARESA center is poised to become a vital hub for veterans, offering a plethora of assistance programs and resources tailored to meet their unique needs and requirements.

From pension facilitation and healthcare support to vocational training and counseling services, the center aims to provide holistic assistance to ex-servicemen, ensuring they lead fulfilling and dignified lives post-retirement.

Located in Nashik, the center’s strategic placement ensures accessibility and convenience for veterans residing not only in Maharashtra but also in neighboring states, thereby extending its reach and impact across a wider demographic.

As the first-of-its-kind facility in Maharashtra, the ARESA center sets a precedent for future initiatives aimed at bolstering support for ex-servicemen in the region.

During the inauguration ceremony, Lieutenant General PC Nair emphasized the importance of the ARESA center in serving as a beacon of hope and assistance for veterans, reaffirming Assam Rifles’ unwavering commitment to their welfare.

He lauded the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in bringing the center to fruition, underscoring the organization’s steadfast dedication to upholding the honor and dignity of ex-servicemen.

The Ex-Servicemen rally, held concurrently with the inauguration, provided a platform for veterans to come together, share experiences, and renew bonds of camaraderie forged during their years of service.

It served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by ex-servicemen in defense of the nation and highlighted the importance of honoring their contributions and addressing their needs.

As the ARESA center in Nashik begins its operations, it heralds a new chapter in the journey of support and solidarity for ex-servicemen, offering them a lifeline of assistance and empowerment in their post-military lives.

With Lieutenant General PC Nair’s visionary leadership guiding the way, the center is poised to become a beacon of hope and a symbol of gratitude for veterans across Maharashtra and beyond.