In a somber event that shook the community, Sukhvinder Singh, an Agniveer soldier originally from Mehta village in Barnala, Punjab, was martyred while on duty in Jammu and Kashmir.
Son of retired Subedar Naib Singh, Agniveer Sukhwinder Singh had joined the ranks of the Indian Army just a year ago through the recently introduced Agniveer scheme.
The young soldier, who was unmarried, made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, leaving behind a bereaved family and village. Agniveer Sukhwinder Singh mortal remains were returned to his native village of Mehta, where his final rites are scheduled to take place at 11 AM.
The funeral attracted numerous attendees, including several local dignitaries and officials such as Sub-Divisional Magistrate Poonampreet Kaur and Deputy Superintendent of Police Dr. Manavjit Singh Sindhu, highlighting the community’s strong support for their fallen hero.
In recognition of his service and sacrifice, the Punjab government has promised to provide appropriate compensation to Sukhvinder Singh’s family. The loss has been deeply felt across the community, serving as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by soldiers protecting national security.
In the heart of Captain Sandhya Mahla, the desire to serve in the defence forces was kindled at a young age by her father, Subedar K. R. Mahla (Retd), a dedicated warrior of the corps of signals. Growing up amidst the disciplined yet vibrant atmosphere of the military environment, Sandhya’s aspirations were not just dreams but a future she was determined to make reality.
With a foundation of academic excellence, having pursued B.Sc. (H) Chemistry from Shivaji College, Delhi University, followed by a master’s in chemistry from Guru Nanak Dev University, her academic journey was as commendable as her unwavering resolve to don the olive green.
Captain Sandhya’s path to commissioning in the Indian Army is a narrative of persistence, resilience, and an indomitable spirit. She cleared her first SSB Interview in the year 2018. Despite facing setbacks in the form of multiple merit-outs after clearing 8 SSBs, her determination remained unshaken.
Sandhya’s journey, punctuated by moments of self-doubt and reflection, serves as a beacon of inspiration for countless aspirants. “Never give up” was not just a mantra but a way of life for her, as she navigated through the challenges with grace and fortitude, ultimately securing her place at the Officers Training Academy, Chennai, in December 2021.
The Power of Resilience
Sandhya’s story is a powerful testament to the importance of resilience and perseverance. “This journey taught me that having faith in oneself is very important and just do your job dedicatedly, you will get your share! If you work hard, you will definitely get what you want,” she reflects. Her experience underscores the value of patience, hard work, and the belief in one’s abilities, principles that propelled her forward in moments of doubt.
Leading by Example
The historic moment when Captain Sandhya led the 148-strong women’s contingent on the 75th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path is a vivid illustration of her leadership and dedication. Preparing for this monumental event, she demonstrated exceptional commitment, ensuring every detail was perfected, from the alignment of her uniform to the synchronization of the contingent. This day was not only a personal achievement for Sandhya but also a landmark event in the annals of the Indian defence services, showcasing the prowess and potential of women officers.
Breaking Barriers
Captain Sandhya Mahla’s journey from an aspiring cadet to a leader of a historic women’s contingent is a narrative of breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks. Her success story is a compelling reminder of the changing dynamics within the Indian Armed Forces, where meritocracy and capability overshadow gender-based distinctions. As Sandhya proudly states, “Here, as opposed to preconceived notions among civilians, gender is of no consequence. Men and women are treated equally, and that is what makes it even more exciting and challenging to be in the armed forces.”
An Inspiration for Future Generations
Captain Sandhya Mahla’s journey is a beacon of hope and inspiration for young women aspiring to join the armed forces. Her story exemplifies that with determination, hard work, and the courage to face challenges head-on, it is possible to achieve one’s dreams. “I hope I am able to set an example for young women who are looking at joining the services and am able to live up to their expectations,” she expresses, embodying the spirit of nari shakti (women power) and leadership that is not defined by gender but by courage, skill, and dedication.
Captain Sandhya’s story, highlighted by her role in the Republic Day parade and her journey through adversity, serves as a potent narrative of empowerment, resilience, and equality. It’s a reminder that the path to achieving one’s dreams is fraught with challenges, but with perseverance and belief in oneself, every obstacle can be overcome. As she moves forward in her career, Captain Sandhya Mahla continues to inspire and motivate, standing tall as a testament to the power of determination and the changing face of leadership in India’s defence forces.
In a significant endeavor aimed at providing comprehensive guidance and support to newly posted officers, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Directorate in Kolkata conducted a highly informative and interactive Comprehensive Orientation Cadre.
The event, held at the NCC Directorate premises, served as a platform for 16 recently appointed officers to receive detailed briefings, practical tips, and valuable insights into their roles and responsibilities within the NCC framework.
Led by the Director General (DG) and senior staff members of the NCC, the orientation cadre encompassed a wide array of topics pertinent to the officers’ roles and functions within the organization.
Through a series of detailed briefings, interactive sessions, and practical demonstrations, the officers were equipped with the necessary knowledge, skills, and tools to excel in their new roles and contribute effectively to the NCC’s mission and objectives.
The orientation cadre commenced with a warm welcome extended to the newly posted officers by senior officials of the NCC Directorate, Kolkata. The officers were provided with an overview of the NCC’s organizational structure, operational procedures, and key focus areas.
Emphasizing the importance of their role in shaping the future leaders of the nation, the DG and other senior officials highlighted the significance of the NCC’s mission in instilling discipline, leadership, and patriotism among the youth.
Throughout the duration of the orientation cadre, the officers engaged in in-depth discussions and interactive sessions covering a wide range of topics, including NCC policies and regulations, administrative procedures, training methodologies, and leadership principles.
The officers also had the opportunity to gain practical insights and firsthand experiences through virtual demonstrations and case studies conducted via video conferencing.
The orientation cadre also provided a platform for the newly posted officers to interact with their peers and colleagues, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork essential for effective performance within the NCC.
The officers exchanged valuable insights, shared best practices, and forged professional connections that will prove invaluable in their future endeavors.
As part of the orientation cadre, the officers received personalized guidance and mentorship from senior NCC officials, enabling them to navigate their roles with confidence and competence.
The officers were encouraged to leverage their unique strengths and experiences to contribute positively to the NCC’s mission of grooming responsible and patriotic citizens.
In addition to the formal briefings and interactive sessions, the orientation cadre also incorporated practical tips and guidance aimed at enhancing the officers’ effectiveness in their day-to-day operations.
From administrative procedures to training methodologies, the officers received comprehensive support and guidance to excel in their respective roles within the NCC.
The successful conduct of the Comprehensive Orientation Cadre underscored the NCC’s commitment to nurturing and empowering its officers with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to fulfill their duties effectively.
As the officers embark on their journey within the NCC, they carry with them the collective wisdom and guidance imparted during the orientation cadre, poised to make meaningful contributions to the organization’s noble mission of youth development and nation-building.
In a concerted effort to enhance coordination and collaboration between civil and military stakeholders in border regions, the Desert Corps organized a landmark Multi-Agency Brainstorming Session at Jodhpur.
The session, aptly titled “Civil-Military Fusion,” aimed to foster greater synergy and efficiency in addressing security challenges along the border areas of Rajasthan and Gujarat.
The event brought together key stakeholders from various civil administration bodies, security agencies, and the Indian Army, providing a platform for fruitful discussions and strategic planning.
The participants engaged in comprehensive deliberations on developing a robust response framework to effectively tackle diverse security scenarios and emergent threats prevalent in the region.
The strategic location of Rajasthan and Gujarat along India’s western border underscores the significance of cohesive civil-military cooperation in safeguarding national interests and ensuring the safety and security of border areas.
Recognizing the unique challenges posed by the terrain and border dynamics, the Desert Corps took proactive measures to convene this crucial brainstorming session, aiming to leverage collective expertise and resources for optimal outcomes.
During the session, participants exchanged valuable insights, shared best practices, and identified areas for mutual cooperation and coordination.
The discussions encompassed a wide range of topics, including border security strategies, intelligence sharing mechanisms, response protocols for cross-border incidents, and capacity-building initiatives.
The Desert Corps, with its extensive experience and operational acumen in the region, played a pivotal role in facilitating constructive dialogue and fostering a spirit of collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
The Corps Commander emphasized the importance of synergy and unity of effort in confronting common security challenges, highlighting the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in ensuring the safety and well-being of the border populace.
The Multi-Agency Brainstorming Session served as a testament to the commitment of the Desert Corps and its partners towards promoting civil-military fusion and strengthening national security architecture.
By harnessing the collective expertise, resources, and capabilities of both civil and military entities, the session laid the groundwork for enhanced coordination, interoperability, and effectiveness in safeguarding the border regions.
As the deliberations concluded, participants expressed optimism about the prospects of closer collaboration and coordination in the future, reaffirming their commitment to upholding the nation’s security interests.
The Desert Corps reiterated its unwavering dedication to fostering civil-military synergy and reiterated its readiness to confront any challenges and threats to the sovereignty and integrity of the nation’s borders.
In the spirit of “Civil-Military Fusion,” the Desert Corps remains steadfast in its resolve to work hand in hand with civil administration and other stakeholders to ensure peace, stability, and prosperity in the border regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat.
The successful conduct of the Multi-Agency Brainstorming Session underscores the collective determination to overcome challenges and build a safer and more secure future for the nation.
In a display of exceptional skill and teamwork, the Indian Navy Team emerged triumphant in the 73rd Inter-Services Water Polo Championship for the year 2024-25. Rear Admiral K Venkatraman, Flag Officer Submarines (FOSM), had the honor of presenting the coveted championship trophy to the Indian Navy Team in recognition of their outstanding performance.
The championship, hosted by the Indian Navy Headquarters Eastern Naval Command (IN_HQENC), took place on April 15th and 16th, 2024, at Visakhapatnam.
The Inter-Services Water Polo Championship is a highly anticipated event that brings together teams from across the armed forces, showcasing their prowess in the water and fostering camaraderie among service members.
The championship serves as a platform for athletes to demonstrate their athleticism, tactical acumen, and competitive spirit while representing their respective services with pride and honor.
The Indian Navy Team’s victory in the championship is a testament to their dedication, training, and commitment to excellence.
Throughout the tournament, the team exhibited remarkable skill, strategic thinking, and resilience, overcoming formidable opponents to emerge as the undisputed champions.
Their relentless pursuit of victory and unwavering determination earned them the admiration and respect of their peers and spectators alike.
Rear Admiral K Venkatraman, in his capacity as the Flag Officer Submarines, had the privilege of felicitating the Indian Navy Team and presenting them with the championship trophy.
In his address to the team, Rear Admiral Venkatraman lauded their stellar performance and congratulated them on their well-deserved victory.
He emphasized the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and discipline in achieving success both on and off the field, and commended the team for upholding these values throughout the championship.
The Inter-Services Water Polo Championship serves as a platform for fostering camaraderie and friendly competition among the armed forces, promoting a spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect.
It provides an opportunity for service members to showcase their athletic talents and forge bonds of friendship that transcend organizational boundaries.
The championship also highlights the role of sports in promoting physical fitness, mental resilience, and esprit de corps among service personnel.
As the Indian Navy celebrates its triumph in the 73rd Inter-Services Water Polo Championship, the victory serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for all members of the naval community.
It underscores the Navy’s commitment to excellence in all endeavors and reinforces its reputation as a force to be reckoned with, both on land and at sea.
The Indian Navy Team’s achievement is a testament to their dedication, perseverance, and indomitable spirit, reflecting the core values of the naval service.
In a significant development aimed at preserving the rich heritage and legacy of the Indian Navy, Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), inaugurated the Naval History Division (NHD) at a ceremony held in Goa.
The event marked a historic milestone in the annals of the Indian Navy as Admiral Kumar unveiled the inaugural plaque, symbolizing the formal establishment of the NHD.
The establishment of the Naval History Division represents a reaffirmation of the Indian Navy’s commitment to commemorating its illustrious past and preserving its historical achievements for posterity.
The division traces its origins back to the Naval History Cell (NHC), which was established in 1968 with the primary objective of documenting the wartime and operational history of the Indian Navy.
Over the years, the NHC played a pivotal role in meticulously recording and cataloging significant events, operations, and achievements of the Indian Navy.
In a notable transformation, the Naval History Cell was re-designated as the Naval History Division in 2006, reflecting its expanded scope and enhanced responsibilities.
The elevation of the NHC to the status of a division underscored the growing recognition of the importance of naval history and the need to institutionalize efforts to preserve and promote it.
The Naval History Division serves as the custodian of the Indian Navy’s rich maritime heritage, housing a treasure trove of archival documents, photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia that offer insights into the Navy’s glorious past.
It serves as a repository of knowledge and a hub for scholarly research, providing historians, scholars, and naval enthusiasts with valuable resources to study and analyze various aspects of naval history.
The inauguration of the Naval History Division represents a significant step forward in the Indian Navy’s efforts to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of its historical legacy among its personnel and the wider public.
By commemorating the sacrifices, achievements, and contributions of past generations of naval personnel, the NHD seeks to inspire future generations of sailors and officers to uphold the highest traditions of the service.
In his address at the inauguration ceremony, Admiral R Hari Kumar underscored the importance of preserving naval history as a means of fostering esprit de corps, instilling pride in naval personnel, and fostering a sense of continuity and identity within the Indian Navy.
He highlighted the pivotal role of the NHD in promoting awareness of the Navy’s heritage and inculcating a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its members.
As the Indian Navy embarks on its journey towards greater heights of excellence and professionalism, the establishment of the Naval History Division stands as a testament to its enduring commitment to honoring its past while charting a course for the future.
It represents a fitting tribute to the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed in the service of the nation, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire and guide successive generations of naval personnel.
In a significant step towards fostering bilateral cooperation and sharing best practices in the field of military healthcare, a delegation from the Armed Forces Medical Corps (AFMC) of Bangladesh, headed by Major General Rashid-Un-Nabi, paid a visit to the Command Hospital in Pune, India.
The visit provided an opportunity for the delegation to gain valuable insights into the top-notch facilities and patient care standards maintained at the esteemed medical institution.
Led by Major General B. Nambiar, Commandant of Command Hospital Pune, the delegation was accorded a warm welcome and was given an extensive tour of the hospital premises.
The delegation had the privilege to witness firsthand the state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced medical equipment, and high-quality healthcare services offered to patients at the hospital.
During their visit, the delegation engaged in productive discussions with Major General Nambiar and other senior officials of the hospital administration.
The discussions revolved around various aspects of healthcare management, including clinical practices, administrative processes, and training methodologies. Both sides exchanged valuable insights and experiences, paving the way for enhanced collaboration and mutual learning in the field of military medicine.
The visit also provided an opportunity for the delegation from AFMC Bangladesh to learn about the innovative approaches and best practices adopted by Command Hospital Pune in delivering comprehensive healthcare services to military personnel and their families.
The delegation appreciated the hospital’s commitment to excellence and its relentless pursuit of providing quality healthcare to its beneficiaries.
Furthermore, the interaction between the two sides facilitated the exchange of ideas on areas of mutual interest, such as medical research, disaster management, and capacity-building initiatives.
The visit served as a platform for fostering greater cooperation and partnership between the medical establishments of India and Bangladesh, with the shared goal of advancing healthcare delivery and improving medical outcomes for both nations’ armed forces personnel.
The delegation from AFMC Bangladesh expressed their gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to them during their visit to Command Hospital Pune.
They lauded the hospital’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of patient care and commended the dedication and professionalism of the medical staff.
Overall, the visit of the AFMC Bangladesh delegation to Command Hospital Pune marked a significant milestone in strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries in the field of military medicine.
It underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing healthcare capabilities and promoting the well-being of military personnel, thereby contributing to regional security and stability.
In a bid to enhance operational preparedness and efficiency in mechanized operations, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, Army Commander of the South Western Command, embarked on a visit to the Hisar Military Station.
The visit aimed at deliberating on the intricacies of planning and executing mechanized operations in desert and semi-desert sectors, crucial for maintaining territorial integrity and national security.
During his interaction with military officials and personnel at the Hisar Military Station, Lt. Gen. Seth underscored the imperative of incorporating cutting-edge technology into military strategies.
He emphasized the need for technology infusion to bolster the capabilities of the armed forces and stay abreast of evolving security challenges in the contemporary geopolitical landscape.
Furthermore, the Army Commander highlighted the significance of fostering jointness among different branches of the armed forces.
Recognizing the synergistic potential of collaborative efforts, Lt. Gen. Seth stressed the importance of seamless coordination and integration of resources across various domains to optimize operational effectiveness.
In line with the military’s modernization agenda, Lt. Gen. Seth emphasized the utilization of air and other force multipliers to augment the capabilities of ground forces.
Leveraging advancements in air support and other auxiliary resources, such as drones and surveillance technology, is deemed essential for achieving superiority in manoeuvre warfare and ensuring decisive victory in conflict scenarios.
The visit to the Hisar Military Station served as a platform for strategic discussions on enhancing operational readiness and future readiness in the South Western Command. Lt. Gen. Seth’s engagement with military personnel underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to adapting to emerging security paradigms and maintaining a state of preparedness to effectively address evolving threats.
The principles of technology infusion, jointness, and modernization emphasized by Lt. Gen. Seth align with the broader objectives of the Sapta Shakti Command and the Indian Army’s overarching mission to safeguard national interests and promote peace and stability in the region.
As the armed forces continue to evolve and adapt to emerging challenges, initiatives aimed at enhancing operational capabilities and interoperability will remain paramount in ensuring the nation’s security and defense preparedness.
General Manoj Pande, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), India, has been actively fostering ties with Uzbekistan during his official visit to the country.
His recent visit to the Uzbekistan Armed Forces Academy marks a significant step in enhancing cooperation between the two nations in the realm of military training.
Accompanied by the Chief of General Staff (CGS) of the Uzbekistan Armed Forces and Charge D’Affaires Mr. Arif Saeed, General Pande engaged in discussions aimed at deepening military collaboration.
The focal point of these discussions was exploring avenues to bolster mutual training programs and exchange expertise between the armed forces of India and Uzbekistan.
In a symbolic gesture, General Pande inaugurated a state-of-the-art Information Technology (IT) Lab at the Uzbekistan Armed Forces Academy.
This IT Lab, established with Indian assistance, represents a tangible manifestation of the commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure and fostering technological advancement in the Uzbekistan military establishment.
The inauguration of the IT Lab underscores India’s dedication to supporting Uzbekistan’s endeavors in modernizing its armed forces and promoting a culture of innovation and technological proficiency.
It also highlights the shared commitment of both nations to strengthen bilateral ties and contribute to regional security and stability.
General Pande’s visit to the Uzbekistan Armed Forces Academy reinforces the deep-rooted friendship and strategic partnership between India and Uzbekistan.
It sets the stage for greater collaboration in military training and capacity-building initiatives, paving the way for a more robust defense partnership between the two countries in the years to come.
The Indo-US Naval War College conference embarked on a voyage of strategic deliberation and partnership enhancement as it unfolded its sails at the Naval War College (NWC) in Goa.
With a resounding theme of “Strengthening Global Maritime Partnerships,” the conference brought together an illustrious gathering of naval luminaries, policymakers, and experts from both India and the United States, charting a course towards fortified maritime collaboration.
Amidst the ever-evolving geopolitical landscape, the conference cast its spotlight on an array of pressing issues shaping the maritime domain. At the forefront of discussions were pivotal topics, each carrying profound implications for regional and global maritime security.
The discourse surrounding the Rules-Based International Order (RBIO) resonated with the shared commitment of both nations to uphold established norms, conventions, and international laws governing maritime affairs.
Emphasizing the cardinal importance of preserving freedom of navigation and ensuring maritime security, participants underscored the imperative of collective action in safeguarding vital maritime trade routes and upholding regional stability.
In tandem with the imperative of RBIO, the conference delved into the realm of Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) in the Indo-Pacific Region.
With a concerted focus on fostering mutual trust, transparency, and cooperation among regional stakeholders, discussions revolved around the formulation of collaborative frameworks aimed at effectively managing maritime disputes and averting potential conflicts.
Furthermore, the conference provided a platform for a deep dive into the formidable Impact of Climate Change on the Maritime Domain. Participants grappled with the multifaceted challenges posed by rising sea levels, intensifying extreme weather events, and environmental degradation.
From devising resilient maritime strategies to leveraging cutting-edge technology and advocating for sustainable practices, the discourse underscored the urgent need for concerted action to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on maritime security and ecosystems.
Against the backdrop of the Indo-US partnership, the conference served as a crucible for fostering deeper understanding, forging stronger bonds, and charting a collaborative course towards enhanced maritime security and stability.
The insights gleaned and collaborative initiatives proposed are poised to resonate far beyond the shores of Goa, amplifying the shared commitment of both nations to safeguarding the seas and advancing common maritime interests on the global stage.
