In a heartfelt observance, around 5,000 veterans gathered in Poonch to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the Poonch Link-Up Day, a significant milestone that underscores the deep ties between the local populace and the Indian Army. This commemoration marks the successful end of a challenging 15-month siege faced by the region in 1948, during which the Indian Army, led by Brigadier Pritam Singh, fought resolutely against the adversities posed by hunger, disease, and the persistent threats from the Pakistani Army.

Lieutenant General Navin Sachdeva, serving as the General Officer Commanding of the 16 Corps, highlighted the importance of this shared legacy during the event. He emphasized the remarkable courage and resilience displayed by both the inhabitants of Poonch and the military forces over the past nearly eight decades, saying, “Today, we come together to honour the courage, resilience, and unbreakable bond that the Awam and Indian Army have shared over the past 77 years.”

The event was marked by spirited sports competitions that saw village teams engaging in games such as football, cricket, hockey, and volleyball. Athletic clubs including City FC, Shahpur Cricket Club, Shyam Lal Hockey Club, and Shaheed Manjeet Singh Club claimed victory in various tournaments, displaying exceptional talent and competitiveness. Notably, Taekwondo performances captivated attendees, showcasing skills that warrant national attention and celebration.

Adding a vibrant note to the proceedings, a bike rally was organized as part of the festivities, encouraging community participation and excitement. A Talent Hunt segment offered local performers, including visually impaired poet Nazir from Mendhar, an inspiring opportunity to showcase their skills. Expressing his gratitude, Nazir remarked, “Performing in front of such a large audience is a dream come true. I am thankful to the Army for giving us this opportunity.”

The importance of unity and shared experiences was echoed by the General Officer Commanding of the 25 Infantry Division, who stated that the event was much more than a contest—it served as a celebration of communal strength and shared dreams. Lieutenant General Sachdeva took the time to interact with winners, applauding their determination and sportsmanship.

Cultural events featured prominently throughout the day, as traditional folk songs, dances, and poetry provided a glimpse into the rich heritage of Poonch, underscoring the social fabric that binds the region together. Lieutenant General Sachdeva remarked on the significance of these events, stating, “These veterans served their time in the Army. Now it’s our turn to serve them,” reaffirming the army’s commitment to honoring those who have dedicated their lives to the nation’s service.

A Defence spokesperson remarked that for the people of Poonch and the Indian Army, Poonch Day represents more than just a historical commemoration; it symbolizes a thriving relationship that continues to strengthen over time. The past month has seen the district buzzing with activities, culminating in vibrant events that echo the community’s indomitable spirit.

This vibrant celebration on Poonch Day 2024 served as a poignant reminder of the resilience, courage, and lasting connection between the Poonch community and the Indian Army, reflecting a legacy that remains vital in protecting the border district and enriching its social camaraderie.

A Scorpene-class submarine of the Indian Navy collided with a fishing trawler off the Goa coast during the operation “Sea Vigil 24,” a coastal defense exercise, late on Thursday night. The incident involved the Indian fishing vessel Marthoma, which had 13 crew members on board. While 11 fishermen were successfully rescued, efforts to locate the remaining two crew members are currently ongoing, spearheaded by Indian Navy and Coast Guard vessels.

An Indian Navy spokesperson has confirmed that search and rescue operations for the missing fishermen are in full swing, coordinated with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Mumbai. The Indian Navy’s response includes the deployment of six naval ships and surveillance aircraft, with additional assets being diverted to enhance the search efforts in the area.

Details regarding potential damages to the diesel-electric submarine, which is equipped with long-range guided torpedoes and anti-ship missiles, have not been disclosed by the Indian Navy. However, the incident has raised significant concerns regarding safety and operational protocols within the Navy.

The collision is the latest in a troubling series of events that have plagued the Indian Navy along its western coast over the past decade. Critics highlight an alarming trend of tragedies, including collisions, fires, and other safety incidents, which have raised questions about the Navy’s preparedness and resource allocation. “It is a major embarrassment for the Indian Navy, conducting coastal defense exercises, to be involved in an accident with a fishing vessel,” commented a senior naval commander. The commander further emphasized that the undetected presence of the fishing vessel during the submarine’s transit and surfacing poses serious concerns regarding security breaches in coastal defense operations.

The collision took place approximately 70 nautical miles northwest of the Goa coast, at a time when the submarine had just participated in a joint coastal defense exercise. “Sea Vigil-24” spanned the entire nation, covering an impressive 11,098 km of coastline and an Exclusive Economic Zone of 2.4 million square kilometers. This comprehensive exercise involved collaboration from six ministries and 21 state and central security agencies.

The Western Naval Command has been grappling with a litany of accidents over the last decade, contributing to increasing scrutiny of safety protocols and operational readiness. Past incidents include a major fire aboard the INS Brahmaputra in July, which raised alarms about safety measures in the Mumbai harbor. Other catastrophic events include a deadly explosion on the INS Ranvir in January 2022, which claimed the lives of three sailors and injured 11 others, and a 2013 incident involving the INS Sindhurakshak, where a fire triggered by warheads led to the deaths of 18 naval personnel.

Moreover, there have been several near-misses, such as the collision of INS Talwar with a fishing trawler in December 2013 and the grounding of INS Betwa, which faced multiple mishaps in the following years. The string of disasters highlights a critical shortage of naval officers, resources, and perhaps the aging fleet’s operational capability, compelling calls for a reevaluation of the Indian Navy’s approach to maritime safety and crisis management.

As the search for the missing crew members continues, the Navy is under pressure to address deeper issues surrounding its operational protocols and to restore confidence in its maritime capabilities.

An Indian Navy submarine and a fishing vessel, identified as the ‘Marthoma’, were involved in a collision approximately 70 nautical miles northwest of Goa on Thursday night. The incident occurred around 8 PM while the Kalvari-class diesel-electric submarine was operating at "periscope depth" during its transit between ports.

Following the collision, 11 out of the 13 fishermen aboard the fishing vessel were successfully rescued by the submarine crew, along with additional Navy ships dispatched to the site of the accident. A major search operation is currently underway to locate the two missing fishermen. The fishing vessel is believed to be registered with the Kerala fisheries authority; however, its crew members come from various states, including Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.

The rescue efforts involve several Navy and Coast Guard ships that have been redirected to the area, complemented by aircraft support. The operations are being coordinated by the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Mumbai, focused on conducting a thorough search for the missing individuals.

According to an official, the submarine sustained no significant damage and has continued its mission following the incident. Investigations into the cause of the collision are also ongoing.

The Kalvari-class submarines are part of a fleet that includes five of the six French-origin Scorpene submarines constructed at Mazagon Docks Limited in Mumbai, part of the over Rs 23,000 crore Project-75’. The sixth submarine, namedVagsheer`, is expected to be commissioned next month.

These advanced submarines boast stealth capabilities and are outfitted with long-range guided torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, as well as sophisticated sonar and sensor systems. They are designed to engage in a multitude of naval operations, such as anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, mine laying, and surveillance patrols. Furthermore, India is in the process of finalizing an agreement with France for the construction of an additional three Scorpene submarines at Mazagon Docks, projected to cost over Rs 30,000 crore.

In a remarkable showcase of skills, two K-9 operatives from the Indian Army captured the attention of military officials during the recent Indo-Australia joint exercise, “Austrahind,” held at the Aundh Military Station. The exercise, which concluded on Thursday, highlighted the impressive capabilities of Magnet and Allan—two elite dogs trained for explosive detection and assault operations, respectively.

Magnet, an explosive detection dog from the Southern Command’s 25 Army Dog Unit, proved to be a standout performer during the drills. His seamless integration with the bomb disposal squad not only elevated the operational standards of the exercise but also demonstrated the critical role that trained K-9s play in modern military engagements. A senior officer noted that Magnet’s exceptional olfactory skills were crucial for detecting improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and ensuring thorough sanitization of areas in simulated war scenarios.

Allan, an assault dog hailing from the Remount Veterinary Corps Centre & College in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, shone as a formidable asset during close-quarter combat drills. His agility and instinctive threat neutralization tactics positioned him as a key player in high-stakes building clearance and counter-terrorism exercises. The officer underscored Allan’s ability to engage with adversaries in hostile environments without hesitation, effectively enhancing the tactical efficacy of the units involved.

Major General David John Thomae, commander of the Australian Second Division, expressed admiration for the Indian Army’s operational techniques. He remarked on the impressive tactical capabilities demonstrated by Indian engineers and their K-9 partners, highlighting a potential interest in adopting some of these methodologies in Australian military operations.

The Indian Army’s K-9 Corps comprises a diverse range of breeds, including Labradors, German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Great Mountain Swiss Dogs, and Mudhol Hounds. These dogs are specially trained to detect bio explosives and plastic IEDs, reflecting the army’s commitment to integrating advanced techniques and specialized roles in their tactical procedures.

Both Magnet and Allan exemplified the synergy between military personnel and trained canines during the exercise, showcasing a remarkable fusion of skills and training that underscores the importance of K-9 units in contemporary defense strategies. As these elite teams continue to evolve, their contributions to national security and operational readiness remain profoundly significant in the face of ever-changing threats.

In a significant development for the Indian Army, Lieutenant General M V Suchindra Kumar, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of Northern Command, has recently evaluated the performance of the newly inducted Asmi machine pistols during a live firing demonstration at the Command headquarters in Udhampur. The event was held on November 21, showcasing the indigenous capabilities of the Indian defense sector.

The Asmi machine pistol, regarded as a major advancement in small arms technology, has been developed through a collaborative effort led by Colonel Prasad Bansod of the Indian Army along with the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) at the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune. The machine pistols were officially inducted into the Northern Command on November 5, marking a significant milestone with a total of 550 units entering service.

Manufacturing of the Asmi machine pistol has been assigned to Lokesh Machine in Hyderabad, underscoring the government’s push towards self-reliance in defense capabilities—a core tenet of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The Army emphasizes that the Asmi machine pistol is designed to cater to the demands of close-quarter battles and specialized operations, offering versatility and reliability in diverse combat scenarios.

Featuring a unique semi-bullpup design, the Asmi allows for single-handed operations, functioning effectively both as a pistol and as a submachine gun. This innovative design is expected to enhance operational efficiency for soldiers engaged in critical situations.

The Northern Command’s social media account highlighted Lieutenant General Kumar’s engagement with the new weaponry, showcasing the Army’s focus on modernization and domestic production of armaments. The post reinforced the significance of this induction, reiterating the Indian Army’s commitment to advancing indigenous solutions for its operational needs.

As the Indian Army continues to evolve its capabilities, the introduction of the Asmi machine pistol exemplifies the nation’s dedication to fostering a robust defense ecosystem, which aims to meet both current and future challenges.

In recent years, the Indian Navy has faced several incidents involving its submarines, raising concerns about the safety and operational integrity of its underwater fleet. One of the notable accidents occurred in 2015 when INS Sindhughosh collided with a fishing vessel off the western coast of India. The incident resulted in minor damage to the submarine’s periscope, but it highlighted the risks associated with submarine operations in crowded waters.

Earlier, in February 2014, the INS Sindhuratna experienced a fire onboard that tragically resulted in the deaths of two officers. This incident emphasized the potential dangers submarines face not only from external threats but also from internal malfunctions and fires, which can pose significant risks to crew members.

Another grave incident took place in August 2013 when INS Sindhurakshak suffered severe damage due to explosions while berthed at the naval dockyard in Mumbai. This catastrophic event claimed the lives of fifteen sailors and three officers, marking one of the deadliest accidents in the history of the Indian Navy’s submarine operations.

Going back further, in January 2008, INS Sindhughosh, a different Kilo-class submarine, was involved in another collision, this time with the foreign merchant vessel MV Leeds Castle while trying to surface near Mumbai. Such incidents have raised critical questions regarding the age and operational capabilities of the Indian Navy’s submarine fleet.

Currently, the Indian Navy operates a total of 16 submarines of various classes, including five Kalvari (Scorpene) class submarines, four Shishumar (HDW SSKs) class submarines, and seven submarines from the Sindhughosh class. While the Navy has recently commissioned several new Scorpene submarines, the overall fleet is aging, with many submarines being over 20 years old. Additionally, ongoing manufacturing programs have faced delays, further complicating the Navy’s efforts to modernize its underwater capabilities.

In stark contrast, China’s naval power has been expanding at an accelerated pace. The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has augmented its strength with a continuous addition of warships and submarines to its fleet, currently boasting a total of 355 vessels. This significant difference in naval capabilities is a cause for concern for India, especially as China has intensified its operations in the strategically important Indian Ocean region.

As the Indian Navy navigates through these challenges, it remains crucial for the country to address the aging hardware and expedite modernization efforts to ensure a robust and safe submarine fleet capable of maintaining regional security amidst growing threats.

The Indian Navy is set to showcase its esteemed Navy Band in a series of performances in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, in a vibrant celebration of Navy Day. This annual event, taking place on December 4, is dedicated to honoring the pivotal role played by the Indian Navy during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, particularly highlighting Operation Trident, which significantly impacted the conflict by targeting the Karachi harbor.

This year’s festivities will include a specially organized three-day concert featuring the Navy Band, with Rear Admiral Ashwani Kumar Tikoo, the director of the Defence Machinery Design Establishment (DMDE) in Secunderabad, overseeing the event. The celebration will kick off with a distinguished reception on November 23, graced by the presence of Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, who will be in attendance to honor the contributions of the Navy.

The highly anticipated public performance by the Navy Band will take place on November 24 at Sarath City Mall in Kondapur, where residents and visitors alike will have the opportunity to enjoy the melodious tunes performed by the talented band members. This initiative not only seeks to celebrate the rich history and achievements of the Indian Navy but also aims to foster community engagement and appreciation for the sacrifices made by naval personnel throughout history.

As the Navy prepares to remember its storied past, this year’s events are anticipated to be a grand tribute, enhancing the connection between the armed forces and the civilian population. The musical performances will serve as a reminder of the strategic importance and valor displayed by the Navy during critical operations in the nation’s defense.

A fishing vessel named Marthoma collided with an Indian Navy submarine approximately 70 nautical miles off the coast of Goa. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, has prompted a major search and rescue operation as efforts are underway to locate two crew members who are reported missing from the fishing vessel.

In response to the situation, the Indian Navy has mobilized a number of additional assets, including support from the Coast Guard, to enhance the ongoing search efforts. An Indian Navy spokesperson confirmed that operations commenced immediately following the collision and have involved six naval ships and aircraft. These rescue operations have so far been successful, resulting in the safe retrieval of eleven out of the thirteen crew members from the Marthoma.

Sources indicate that the submarine was in transit along the West Coast when the collision occurred, but details regarding any potential damage to the submarine remain unclear. In light of the incident, the Navy has initiated a high-level investigation to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the collision.

This incident comes on the heels of another significant event earlier this year, where the Indian Navy warship INS Brahmaputra sank at a Mumbai dockyard after a fire erupted during maintenance work. Efforts are currently underway to repair the INS Brahmaputra, with the aim of returning it to operational status.

As the search and rescue operation continues, the Navy is focused on ensuring the safety of all personnel involved and determining the cause of the incident involving the Marthoma and the submarine.

In a significant move aimed at bolstering its capabilities, the Indian Army has initiated a program to induct specialists in niche domains, with an early focus on five Chinese language experts. These experts, along with an additional 12 professionals recruited through various other channels, will serve in both officer and personnel roles, with pathways available for promotions within these specialized positions. This recruitment initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the Army’s operational effectiveness and adaptability in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.

The Army is set to extend its recruitment efforts by introducing advertisements for further positions, specifically targeting domain specialists who will join through regular recruitment channels. This proactive approach underscores the Army’s commitment to modernizing its structure and ensuring long-term expertise in critical areas.

General Kapoor highlighted that the Indian Army is implementing a tenure-based posting system, which allows specialists to remain at their postings for extended periods without the concern that their promotions will be impacted by their assignments. This system aims to stabilize roles within the Army and ensure that experts can effectively leverage their skills in their designated areas.

In tandem with these personnel changes, the Army is also embarking on structural reform initiatives, which will feature dedicated branches led by officers focused on fostering technological innovation. Collaborations with prestigious academic institutions, including the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), are set to enhance research and development efforts, aligning military needs with academic capabilities.

This overarching transformation program, dubbed the ‘Year of Transformation’ for 2023 and the upcoming ‘Year of Technology Absorption’ in 2024, reflects the Indian Army’s strategic commitment to equip its forces for the future. By realigning its recruitment, training, and operational structures, the Army is endeavoring to create a more agile and technologically adept force capable of addressing contemporary security challenges.

In a significant address on Friday, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) White Knight Corps, Lieutenant General Navin Sachdeva, underscored the persistent issue of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, attributing it primarily to external influences. He articulated that the Indian Army’s enhanced operational capabilities, coupled with a strong rapport with the local populace, would play a vital role in fostering peace in the region.

During a function in Poonch, Lt Gen. Sachdeva detailed the Army’s proactive measures to bolster security, noting the establishment of new patrol routes and posts in elevated areas of the mountainous terrain. He stated, “In recent times, all of you have witnessed that the Indian Army has significantly enhanced its operational capabilities and effectiveness.” Emphasizing the nature of challenges posed by residual terrorism, he remarked, “We know very well that the residual terrorism that remains here is due to external forces.”

Moreover, he expressed the shared aspiration for peace among the Indian Army, local communities, veterans, police, and civil agencies, asserting their collective resolve to facilitate stability and tranquility in the region. Citing the evolving relationship between the military and civilians, he pointed out, “The most gratifying aspect of this entire endeavor is the growing bond between the public and the security forces, which has reached a new level.”

Lt Gen. Sachdeva highlighted various community engagement initiatives, mentioning “Sadbhavana activities,” medical camps, and assistance with infrastructure projects as examples of how the Army and residents of Jammu and Kashmir are progressing together. The GOC encouraged attendees to disseminate the message of unity, assuring them, “I assure you that the Indian Army and security forces will always strive for the security and peace of this region.”

The event featured an Ex-Servicemen (ESM) rally organized by the Army in collaboration with the War Wounded Foundation (WWF), during which four modified scooters were presented to war-disabled soldiers. This initiative aims to enhance mobility and foster independence among differently-abled veterans. A defence spokesperson noted that the WWF has successfully distributed 22 modified scooters, alongside three auto-rickshaws and an electric wheelchair, with plans to extend the program to neighboring regions including Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and Chandigarh.

Brigadier (Retired) Harcharan Singh articulated the importance of these mobility aids, asserting they not only offer physical assistance but also uplift the psychological morale of the soldiers, enabling them to integrate into society and pursue entrepreneurial endeavors. He also elaborated on WWF’s comprehensive support services, which include psychological counseling, assistance with pensions, and help with wedding expenses or business start-ups.

The rally served as a valuable opportunity for ex-soldiers to engage with welfare agencies, learn about government schemes, injury management, and employment opportunities. Lt Gen. Sachdeva personally presented the scooters to their new owners, reiterating the Army’s unwavering commitment to support its veterans, especially those residing in remote border areas.

Looking ahead, the next All-India War Wounded Soldiers Rally is scheduled for April 2025, reinforcing a vision focused on the dignified integration of differently-abled soldiers into societal frameworks, helping them lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to their communities.