In a strategic move aimed at bolstering operational preparedness and enhancing strategic capabilities, Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, the Army Commander of the South Western Command (SWC), embarked on a significant visit to the Sri Ganganagar Military Station.
During his insightful visit, Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth engaged in comprehensive discussions and meticulous reviews of various operational aspects, highlighting the imperative need for evolving techniques, tactics, and procedures to effectively tackle the challenges posed by operations in obstacle-ridden terrain.
The visit of Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth to the Sri Ganganagar Military Station underscored the commitment of the Indian Army to continually assess and enhance its operational capabilities, ensuring preparedness to tackle any potential threat or challenge that may arise.
The Army Commander’s presence served as a catalyst for strategic deliberations and forward-thinking initiatives aimed at fortifying the nation’s defense apparatus and safeguarding its territorial integrity.
During his interactions, Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth emphasized the paramount importance of integrating cutting-edge technologies into military operations, thereby securing a decisive edge in future conflicts.
With the rapidly evolving nature of warfare and the emergence of new threats, the adoption of advanced technologies has become indispensable in maintaining superiority on the battlefield. The Army Commander’s emphasis on leveraging technological innovations resonated with the overarching goal of staying ahead of the curve and adapting to the dynamic security landscape.
Furthermore, Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth underscored the significance of deriving crucial lessons from the fluid global security landscape and incorporating them into the training and exercises conducted by the Indian Army.
By staying attuned to the geopolitical developments and analyzing emerging trends, the armed forces can effectively anticipate challenges and devise robust strategies to address them proactively.
The Army Commander’s strategic foresight and forward-looking approach exemplified the Indian Army’s commitment to ensuring sustained operational readiness and adaptability in the face of evolving security dynamics.
The visit of Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth to the Sri Ganganagar Military Station served as a testament to the Indian Army’s unwavering dedication to excellence and readiness.
It reinforced the Army’s resolve to remain at the forefront of innovation and modernization, equipped to safeguard the nation’s interests and uphold its sovereignty.
As the Indian Army continues to chart new frontiers in defense preparedness, Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth’s visit epitomized the spirit of leadership, vision, and strategic foresight that defines the ethos of the armed forces.
Join Indian Army 2024: The Indian Army offers various avenues to enthusiastic individuals who aspire to serve the nation as an officer. Each path has its unique set of qualifications, age requirements, and selection processes. As of 2024, here are the primary routes you can take to join the Indian Army as an officer:
One of the most popular ways to join the Indian Army as an officer is through the National Defense Academy (NDA) Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). To qualify for NDA, you must be an unmarried male or female aged 16.5-19.5 years with a 10+2 level of education. After clearing the written exam and Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, the qualified candidates undergo a rigorous 3-year training program at NDA, Khadakwasla.
Alternatively, you can also enter the Indian Army through the Combined Defense Services (CDS) Examination, which is also conducted by UPSC. For this entry, you need to be a graduate (any discipline for IMA/OTA, Engineering for Technical Entries), aged between 19 and 24 years. Women are also eligible for the OTA entry. The selection procedure involves clearing the written examination followed by an SSB interview.
Indian Army’s Technical Entry Scheme (TES) and Technical Graduate Course (TGC) are another way for engineering students or graduates to join the Indian Army. For TES, you need to have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, while for TGC, a degree in engineering is required. The selection process involves shortlisting based on percentage cutoff, followed by the SSB interview.
For those with a strong medical or nursing background, the Army Medical Corps and Military Nursing Service (MNS) can be viable entry routes. MBBS graduates or postgraduates can apply for Short Service Commission in the Army Medical Corps, while females with a BSc Nursing degree can join the MNS.
The University Entry Scheme (UES), applicable for pre-final year students, and the Short Service Commission (Technical) entries are other possible pathways for engineering students or graduates.
Lastly, for law graduates, the JAG (Judge Advocate General) entry could be a good fit. It is open for both men and women aged between 21-27 years, holding an LLB degree with at least 55% marks and registered with the Bar Council of India or the state.
The Indian Army also offers Special Entry Schemes such as the NCC Special Entry Scheme for NCC ‘C’ Certificate holders, which doesn’t require a written examination.
All the above pathways generally involve a two-stage selection process— clearing a written test (except in special entries), followed by an SSB interview, which tests your psychological aptitude and personality.
Preparation for joining the Indian Army should be comprehensive and focused, with adequate attention to improving your physical fitness, communication skills, and general awareness. It is advisable to follow the Indian Army’s official website to keep abreast of the latest notifications and updates about the various entries.
If you are an Indian defence aspirant and want to join the Indian army as an officer in 2023, here are the upcoming officer’s entries that you can look for. The Indian Army finds potential officer through the entries like NDA, CDS, TGC, SSC, NCC, TES, ACC and more. In this article, you can find the details on these Indian army entries and exams and how one can preparing these defence exams.
Armed Forces epitomize the ideals of service, sacrifice, patriotism and composite culture of the country. Recruitment to the Armed Forces is voluntary and open to all citizens of India irrespective of caste, class, religion and community provided the laid down physical, medical and educational criteria are met.
Ways To Join Indian Army 2024
1. National Defence Academy Exam
The NDA exam is conducted by UPSC for the aspirants who are in 10+2 and want to join the Army, Navy and Airforce after 12th.
NDA 1 2024 Exam: The National Defence Academy Exam is conducted twice a year. It is a national-level examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission.
NDA 2 2024 Exam: UPSC conducts NDA 2023, a national-level entrance examination, twice a year to recruit qualified candidates for the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy. Candidates aspiring to take the exam should start preparing by creating a study plan and devising a strategic approach to tackle the competition.
Prepare For NDA Exam Online with SSBCrackExams
Every year about 10 lakh candidates appear for the NDA exam, out of which only 16 to 20 thousand qualify the written test. As it is conducted by Union Public Service Commission, the questions that come for the exam are usually of a higher & advanced level, making it quite a challenging exam to crack. This course constructed by SSBCrackExams is, therefore, designed according to the standard of knowledge & expertise expected from the qualifying candidate. With 2000+ video lectures & 6000+ practice sets, this course aims to deliver to the students strong content & detailed explanation on complex subjects from Maths, English, General Studies, General Sciences & Current Affairs. This all-inclusive course, therefore, prepares a student with all the necessary requirements for acing higher scores in the written test & pursue their dreams. Enroll for NDA Exam Online Coaching
2. Combined Defence Services Exam [CDS Exam]
The CDS Exam is conducted by UPSC for the aspirants who are in the final year of graduation or passed out of college. Through CDS exam, one can join, IMA, AFA, INA and OTA. Women can only join OTA Chennai through CDS Exam.
CDS 1 2024 Exam: The exam is a national test for people who want to join the Indian Military Academy, the Officers’ Training Academy, the Indian Naval Academy, or the Indian Air Force Academy.
CDS 2 2024 Exam: The exam is a national-level examination for the recruitment of candidates into the Indian Military Academy, the Officers’ Training Academy, the Indian Naval Academy, and the Indian Air Force Academy.
Prepare For CDS Exam Online with SSBCrackExams
Every year about 10 lakh candidates appear for the CDS exam, out of which only 16 to 20 thousand qualify the written test. As it is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission, the questions that come for the exam are usually of a higher & advanced level, making it quite a challenging exam to crack. This course constructed by SSBCrackExams is, therefore, designed according to the standard of knowledge & expertise expected from the qualifying candidate. With 1000+ video lectures & 8000+ practice sets, this course aims to deliver to the students strong content & detailed explanation on complex subjects from Maths, English, General Studies, General Sciences & Current Affairs. This all-inclusive course, therefore, prepares a student with all the necessary requirements for acing higher scores in the written test & pursue their dreams. Enroll for CDS Exam Online Coaching
3. Territorial Army
The Territorial Army is part of Regular Army and its present role is to relieve the Regular Army from static duties and assist civil administration in dealing with natural calamities and maintenance of essential services in situations where life of the communities is affected or the Security of the Country is threatened and to provide units for Regulars Army as and when required.
TA Notification 2024 Civilian
TA Notification 2024 Ex-Officers
Prepare For Territorial Army Exam Online with SSBCrackExams
We are the only portal that provides the online course to crack the TA exam since long we are serving the Territorial Army aspirants in their preparation needs through various content. Every year about 1 lakh candidates appear for the Territorial Army exam, out of which only 2 to 5 thousand qualify the written test. As it is conducted by the Indian Army, the questions that come for the exam are usually of a higher & advanced level, making it quite a challenging exam to crack. This course constructed by SSBCrackExams is, therefore, designed according to the standard of knowledge & expertise expected from the qualifying candidate. With 1000+ video lectures & 4000+ practice sets, this course aims to deliver to the students strong content & detailed explanation on complex subjects from Maths, English, Reasoning, General Studies & Sciences. This all-inclusive course, therefore, prepares a student with all the requirements for acing higher scores in the written test & pursue their dreams.
4. Technical Entry Scheme (TES)10+2 :
Candidates who have qualified 10+2 CBSE/ICSE/State Board Examination with minimum aggregate of 70% marks in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics are eligible to apply for commission under the 10+2(TES). On being successful in the SSB and being declared fit by the medical board, they undergo one year basic military training at the Training Academy and thereafter undergo three years engineering degree course in respective streams before getting Permanent Commission. On being commissioned, they are further put through one year of post commissioning training for the Arm/Service into which they are commissioned. Upcoming TES Notification:
TES 51 Notification
TES 52 Notification
5. Technical Graduates Course (TGC)
Engineering graduates from the notified discipline of engineering, postgraduates with minimum second division aggregate marks in notified discipline for Army Education Corps and MSc in Agriculture/Dairy for Military Farm are eligible to apply for Permanent Commission through this entry. After the SSB and the Medical Board, the selected candidates are required to undergo one-year pre-commissioned training at the IMA, Dehradun, before being commissioned. Engineering Graduates through this entry are also entitled to one-year antedate seniority on commissioning. The candidates are directly shorlisted for SSB interview based on their percentage. Upcoming TGC notifications:
TGC 140 Notification
TGC 141 Notification
6. Short Service Commission (Technical) Entry
The Short Service Commission (Technical) Entry Scheme provides avenue for recruitment to eligible technical graduates/post graduates into Technical Arms. After SSB and Medical Board, the selected candidates are required to undergo approximately 140 49 weeks pre-commission training at OTA, Chennai. On completion of training, they are inducted as Short Service Commissioned Officers. Cadets through this entry are also entitled to one year’s ante-date seniority on commissioning. Terms and conditions of other short service commission officers are applicable. The candidates are directly shortlisted for SSB interview based on their percentage. SSC Tech upcoming notification:
SSC Tech 62 Men
SSC Tech 63 Men
SSC Tech 33 Women
SSC Tech 34 Women
7. NCC (Special Entry Scheme)
University graduates possessing NCC ‘C’ Certificate with minimum ‘B’ grade and 50% aggregate marks in graduation examination are eligible to apply for Short Service Commission through this entry. Those studying in third year are allowed to apply provided they have secured minimum 50% aggregate marks in first two years. Such candidates will need to secure overall aggregate of minimum 50 % marks if selected in interview failing which his candidature will be cancelled. Candidates must possess graduation degree at the time of joining OTA or those candidates studying in third year should be able to produce the degree within 12 weeks from date of commencement of training at OTA. Such cadets are exempted from written examination conducted by the UPSC and are directly put through the SSB interview followed by a medical board. Candidates meeting the qualitative requirements have to apply through NCC Group Headquarters at the State level. After Screening by respective Group Headquarters, Directorate General of NCC forwards the applications of eligible cadets to the Recruiting Directorate of Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army). Upcoming NCC Special Entry Scheme notifications:
NCC 58 Special Entry Scheme
NCC 59 Special Entry Scheme
NCC 60 Special Entry Scheme
8. Judge Advocate General Entry
Law graduates with minimum 55% aggregate marks in LLB and between 21 to 27 years of age can apply for Judge Advocate General Branch. Eligible candidates are called for direct SSB interview and medical test, thereafter. It is a Short Service Commission Entry wherein suitable candidates can opt for Permanent Commission.
JAG 33 Notification
JAG 34 Notification
9. Short Service Commission Women
Eligible women candidates are recruited in the Army as Short Service Commission Officers. Commission is granted in Corps of Electronic and Mechanical Engineers, Corps of Engineers, Signals, Army Educational Corps, Military Intelligence Corps, Judge Advocate General’s Branch, Army Supply Corps, Army Ordnance Corps and Army Air Defence. Women are offered Short Service Commission in three streams viz. Non-Technical Graduate, Technical and Post Graduate/ Specialist for a period of ten years, extendable by additional four years purely on voluntary basis. Recently, Government of India had granted option for permanent commission for 141 officers in Army Education Corps and Judge Advocate General Branch after completion of 10 years of service. The duration of training is 49 weeks at Officers Training Academy, Chennai. For Short Service Commission Women (Technical) Entry, passed or final year/ semester students of B.E/ B.Tech in notified streams are eligible to apply. Eligible candidates appear for direct SSB interview and Medical Test, thereafter. The applicants for Non-Technical Graduate, however, would be required to apply through UPSC and after written examination would come up for SSB interview as is being done for Short Service Commissioned male officers. A total of 20% allotted seats from NonTechnical stream have been reserved for NCC ‘C’ certificate holder women candidates with minimum ‘B’ grade and 50% aggregate marks in graduation examination. The applications will be routed through NCC Directorate, Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army), as applicable for male officers. For Judge Advocate General Branch, applications are invited from Law Graduates with minimum 55%, for direct SSB interviews. Widows of Defence Personnel who meet the laid down eligibility criteria are granted four years age relaxation and 5% seats of each course (2.5 each in Tech and Non-Tech) are reserved for them. Short Service Commission Women (Tech), NCC entry and Judge Advocate General Branch are exempted from written examinations and would need to apply directly to Additional Directorate General of Recruiting, Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army). The notification would be published along with SSCW (Tech) twice a year.
10. Army Cadet College (ACC) Entry
The eligible Other Ranks (OR) in age group of 20-27 years and minimum two years of service, having 10+2 pass qualification can apply for Regular Commission. After qualifying in written examination conducted by the Military Training Directorate, the aspirants are screened by SSB and the Medical Board. Successful candidates are trained at Army Cadet College Wing, Dehradun, for three years at the end of which they get a graduation degree. This is followed by one year precommission training at IMA, Dehradun.
Under this entry JCOs/NCOs/OR in the age group 142 of 28-35 years, with a Senior School Certificate Pass (Class 10+2 pattern) qualification, are eligible for Permanent commission after screening by SSB and Medical Board. They have to undergo pre-commission training of one year at OTA Gaya. The rules for substantive promotion and acting promotion are the same as for regular officers. These officers are employed in units as sub unit commander/ Quarter Master and on various Extra Regimental Employment appointments up to the rank of Major. They retire at the age of 57 years after serving for period of about 20-25 years in the Army. The scheme not only improves the career prospects of the existing JCOs and OR but also helps in making up the deficiency of the support cadre officers in the Army to some extent.
12. Permanent Commission (Special List) (PC SL)
Under this entry, JCOs/ NCOs/ OR up to 42 years of age and minimum 10 years of service, with a Senior Schools Certificate Pass (Class 10+2 pattern) qualification are eligible for commission after screening by SSB and Medical Board. They are granted PC (SL) after successful completion of four weeks orientation training at the IMA.
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.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly known as MS Dhoni, is not just a cricketing legend but also holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army unit of the Parachute Regiment. He received this honor in 2011, in recognition of his extraordinary service to the nation through cricket. It was a fitting tribute to a man who led the Indian cricket team to multiple victories, including the ICC World Cup.
Parachute Training and Deployment
MS Dhoni, despite being an honorary rank holder, took his role seriously. He completed parachute training jumps from Indian Army aircraft at the Agra training camp, making him a qualified paratrooper. This dedication was evident when he decided to serve a 15-day stint with the Para Regiment in Kashmir.
MS Dhoni’s Army Duties in Kashmir
In 2019, MS Dhoni was deployed in Kashmir as part of the Victor Force, a unit known for its operational excellence in the region. His duties included patrolling, guard, and post duty with his 106 TA Battalion (Para). This two-week stint from July 31 to August 15 showcased Dhoni’s commitment to serving the nation beyond the cricket field.
MS Dhoni during his 1st Para Jump
Pictures of MS Dhoni on Army Duty
During his deployment, MS Dhoni’s interactions and activities were documented in a series of images that quickly went viral. Let’s take a look at some of the most memorable moments from his time in Kashmir:
Getting Ready and Polishing Shoes The day often started with Dhoni preparing his uniform, including polishing his shoes. This simple act symbolized his respect for the discipline and structure of military life.
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.
Brigadier Priya Jeyaraj has made history by becoming the first woman officer to head the Armed Forces Dental Clinic (AFDC) in New Delhi. This groundbreaking achievement marks a significant milestone in the history of the Indian Armed Forces, promoting diversity and inclusion within military ranks.
Brigadier Jeyaraj, a seasoned maxillofacial surgeon, brings a wealth of experience to her new role at AFDC. Her expertise primarily focuses on blast injuries, craniofacial reconstruction, and the treatment of facial deformities. This specialization is crucial given the nature of injuries often encountered in military engagements.
The Role of the Armed Forces Dental Clinic
Established in 1947 and originally known as the Military Dental Centre, the AFDC was relocated to its current premises on April 24, 1978. As a pivotal institution within the armed forces, the clinic is dedicated to addressing the dental needs of military personnel. By offering comprehensive services that include screenings, treatments, surgeries, and educational programs, the AFDC plays an essential role in maintaining the oral health of those who serve.
Brigadier Jeyaraj’s leadership is expected to not only continue the clinic’s legacy of excellence but also to inspire further advancements in military medical practices. Her appointment as the clinic’s head is a beacon of progress for women in the armed forces, reflecting a changing landscape where gender barriers are increasingly being dismantled.
The AFDC under Brigadier Jeyaraj’s direction is set to enhance its offerings. The clinic’s focus on state-of-the-art surgical techniques and its commitment to the education of military personnel ensures that the armed forces are kept in peak health condition. This is vital for their readiness and effectiveness in operations.
Brigadier Jeyaraj’s appointment comes at a time when the Indian Armed Forces are making concerted efforts to promote inclusivity. Her breakthrough role as the first woman to lead the AFDC is a testament to the evolving dynamics within military structures, advocating for greater female participation and leadership.
A Forward March for Women In Armed Forces
The significance of Brigadier Priya Jeyaraj’s role at the helm of the Armed Forces Dental Clinic extends beyond just military operations. It symbolizes a broader movement towards equal opportunities within the Indian Armed Forces, where merit and skill are the primary criteria for advancement. Her pioneering position paves the way for future generations of women in the military, demonstrating that leadership roles are attainable irrespective of gender.
This achievement not only enhances the operational capabilities of the AFDC but also strengthens the moral fiber of the armed forces by fostering a more diverse and inclusive environment. Brigadier Jeyaraj’s historic leadership role encourages continuous improvement and adaptation in military practices, ensuring the Indian Armed Forces remain resilient and robust in the face of challenges.
