In a significant health initiative on National Immunization Day, the Shivalik Brigade, under the umbrella of the Pine Division, spearheaded a cervical cancer vaccination drive, focusing on immunizing 14-year-old girls.
The campaign, tagged We Care, aims to bolster efforts against cervical cancer, a leading cause of morbidity among women worldwide. This initiative is part of a broader national effort to enhance the well-being of adolescents and reduce the incidence of cervical cancer, thereby contributing to the Prevent Cancer movement.
The organized drive emphasizes the importance of early vaccination and is a step forward in safeguarding young girls from the risks associated with cervical cancer.
This action by the Shivalik Brigade underscores their commitment to community health and prevention of life-threatening diseases through proactive immunization.
In a significant stride towards combating piracy in the high seas, the Indian Navy has successfully apprehended 35 Somali pirates following a comprehensive 100-day anti-piracy campaign east of the Red Sea. This operation marks a critical response to the resurgence of piracy in the region, a threat that had been dormant for almost a decade.
The captured pirates were handed over to Mumbai police on Saturday, culminating an operation that spotlighted India’s pivotal role in maritime security in the Gulf of Aden and the northern Arabian Sea.
The pirates, taken into custody from the hijacked cargo ship Ruen, face serious charges under India’s stringent 2022 anti-piracy law, potentially facing life imprisonment. This law empowers the Indian Navy to aggressively pursue and arrest pirates beyond its territorial waters.
The Ruen, hijacked three months prior off the Somali coast, served as a “mother ship” for the pirates, facilitating numerous attacks on commercial vessels. This resurgence of piracy has been attributed to the diversion of Western naval resources towards protecting shipping lanes from the Red Sea’s Houthi militant attacks. The resulting security vacuum has emboldened pirates, leading to over 20 hijacking attempts since November and significantly impacting global shipping operations.
India’s Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar, in a press conference marking the operation’s 100th day, highlighted the navy’s robust response to the crisis. With 21 ships and 5,000 personnel deployed in rotation, the Indian Navy’s presence in the region has been unprecedented. This force has been instrumental in investigating over 1,000 vessels and responding to 18 piracy incidents, reinforcing India’s commitment to regional maritime security.
The operation has also had broader implications for commercial shipping traffic, with many companies opting for the longer route around southern Africa to avoid the troubled waters. This shift has drastically reduced traffic through the region, underscoring the economic impact of piracy and regional instability.
In addition to anti-piracy efforts, the Indian Navy has also been involved in mitigating the threats from drone or missile attacks in the region, attributed to the Iranian-backed Houthi militants.
Despite these challenges, Admiral Kumar emphasized India’s neutral stance towards the Houthis, focusing instead on the broader mission of ensuring the safety, security, and stability of the Indian Ocean region.
As the Indian Navy continues its vigilant watch over the high seas, its actions against piracy not only underscore India’s commitment to international maritime law but also its role as a key security partner in maintaining the global shipping lanes free from the threat of piracy.
In a significant political development, Former Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal (Retd.) RKS Bhadauria has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in a ceremony in the national capital on Sunday, March 24. His induction into the party, nearly two and a half years post his retirement, was witnessed by notable figures including Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur and BJP National General Secretary Vinod Tawde.
Air Chief Marshal Bhadauria, who led the Indian Air Force as its 23rd Chief from September 30, 2019, to September 30, 2021, comes from Bah tehsil of Agra district. His political journey is starting amidst speculations that the BJP might field him as the Lok Sabha candidate from Ghaziabad, a strategic decision that indicates the party’s trust in leveraging his distinguished service and leadership qualities for furthering its political objectives.
Reflecting on his new chapter, Bhadauria expressed his gratitude towards the BJP leadership for providing him an avenue to engage in nation-building again. He highlighted the transformative years under the Narendra Modi government, especially the last eight years, which he described as the pinnacle of his over four-decade-long service in the Indian Air Force (IAF). He commended the government’s emphasis on self-reliance in the defense sector, crediting it with instilling new capabilities and confidence within the armed forces. According to Bhadauria, the tangible outcomes of these policies are visible on the ground, reinforcing India’s security and elevating its global stature.
The question of whether Bhadauria will replace another military veteran, General VK Singh, the current Lok Sabha MP from Ghaziabad, remains a subject of speculation. General Singh, a two-time MP, was elected in 2014 and re-elected in 2019. With the BJP yet to announce its candidates for the Ghaziabad seat in the upcoming polls and the anticipation building up after the party’s Central Election Committee meeting, political observers are keenly watching the developments. The announcement, expected to be made soon, will clarify whether Bhadauria is set to enter the electoral fray, potentially succeeding General VK Singh in representing Ghaziabad in the Lok Sabha.
The Remount Veterinary Corps recently celebrated a significant milestone with the Popping Ceremony held on March 21st, marking the completion of training for a new batch of officers. This event saw the commissioning of 20 officers, including, four women to join the ranks. The ceremony, a momentous occasion for the Corps, was attended by friends and families of the graduates, who came together to witness the young officers receive their stars, symbolizing their official entry into the service.
The inclusion of women in this batch underscores the Corps’ commitment to gender diversity and equal opportunities within its ranks. This move has been widely appreciated and is seen as a step forward in the modernization and inclusiveness of the armed forces. The ceremony, filled with pride and emotion, was not only a personal achievement for the new officers but also a celebration of their families’ support and sacrifice.
The Remount Veterinary Corps, known for its critical role in providing veterinary care and management for the army’s animal assets, has been evolving to meet the contemporary needs of the military. The training of these new officers is expected to bring fresh perspectives and skills to the Corps, enhancing its capabilities.
As these young men and women embark on their careers, they carry the heavy responsibility of maintaining the health and welfare of animals in service. Their training has prepared them to face the challenges ahead with courage, dedication, and professionalism. The Corps looks forward to the contributions these new officers will make towards its mission, reflecting their commitment to excellence and service to the nation.
The Indian Air Force community is in mourning following the untimely demise of Group Captain Ajay Natu. The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team, through its official Twitter account Suryakiran IAF, expressed its profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of the late officer. “In the vast skies of eternity, may Group Captain Ajay Natu shine like a guiding star, forever remembered for his fighting spirit till the end,” the team tweeted, reflecting the high regard in which he was held.
Stationed at Air Force Station Bidar, Group Captain Natu was an integral part of the Suryakiran team, known for their precision flying and aerobatic displays. His sudden passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him personally and professionally.
According to a response from a personal acquaintance on social media, the cause of death was cardiac arrest. This was confirmed by a social media user, who expressed disbelief and sorrow over the loss, noting Group Captain Natu’s childhood friendship and his admirable journey through life and career in the Air Force. “Hard to believe this. We have known him since childhood and we’d take pride in celebrating his promotions and achievements. May his soul rest in peace,” the message read.
Tributes have poured in from various quarters, highlighting not only Group Captain Natu’s professional excellence but also his qualities as an extraordinary human being. A friend reminisced about the cherished moments spent together, underlining the late officer’s glorious personality and the impact he had on those around him. “An excellent human being and a glorious personality faded away, blue skies to u, I will always cherish those precious moments which we spent together, and how we became friends. Om Shanti,” the heartfelt tribute read.
Group Captain Ajay Natu’s contributions to the Indian Air Force and his role in enhancing the prestige of the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team will be remembered. As the community comes together to grieve, the legacy of his fighting spirit and dedication to service continues to inspire.
In a significant development, Lieutenant General RC Tiwari, the Commander of the Eastern Command of the Indian Army, conducted a comprehensive review of the security situation and operational preparedness during his visit to Spear Corps on the 21st and 22nd of March. This visit comes at a critical time when maintaining readiness and vigilance is paramount for national security.
During his inspection, Lt Gen Tiwari took a detailed look at the various facets of the Spear Corps’ readiness, assessing both their current capabilities and the measures in place for rapid response to any situation. The Army Commander’s visit is a clear indication of the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the security and stability of the region.
Lt Gen Tiwari expressed his admiration for the high levels of motivation, professionalism, and commitment exhibited by all ranks of Spear Corps. He highlighted the importance of these qualities in maintaining operational superiority and readiness. The commendation from the Army Commander serves as a testament to the rigorous training and dedication of the personnel under his command.
Moreover, Lt Gen Tiwari encouraged the troops to strive for excellence in their operational skills. He emphasized that achieving high standards in operational readiness is crucial for the success of the Indian Army’s missions and for the safety and security of the nation.
This visit and the subsequent encouragement from Lt Gen Tiwari reinforce the Indian Army’s mantra of “Nation First”. The focus remains firmly on safeguarding the borders and ensuring peace and security in the region. The Spear Corps, with its vital role in the Eastern Command’s strategic disposition, continues to be a pivotal element in the Indian Army’s operational strategy.
The Indian Army’s Eastern Command, through initiatives like these, demonstrates its ongoing commitment to maintaining a high state of preparedness. It underscores the importance of constant vigilance and readiness to face any challenges that may arise, thereby contributing significantly to national security.
The Indian Army has officially announced the opening of the date selection link for the SSB (Services Selection Board) interviews for the Short Service Commission Technical (SSC Tech)-63 course. This opportunity is specifically for the male candidates who have been shortlisted for the upcoming October 2024 course at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai. The announcement is a crucial step in the selection process for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Army through the technical entry scheme.
Key Details for Candidates:
SSC Tech Course: The SSC Tech-63 course is scheduled to commence in October 2024, offering engineering graduates an avenue to join the Indian Army as commissioned officers. This entry is part of the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to recruit technically skilled officers into its ranks.
Date Selection Link Activation: The Indian Army has made the date selection link available on the official portal, where shortlisted candidates can log in to their profiles and choose their preferred date for the SSB interview. This process is critical as it allows candidates to select a date that best fits their schedule, ensuring their availability for the selection process.
Deadline for Selection: It is imperative for candidates to act swiftly as the date selection link will remain active only until 1600 hours on 26 March 2024. Candidates are advised to make their selections before this deadline to secure their spot for the interview.
Location of SSB Interviews: The SSB interviews for the SSC Tech-63 course men will be conducted at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai. OTA Chennai is one of the premier institutions responsible for training officers for the Short Service Commission.
Preparing for the SSB Interviews:
Candidates shortlisted for the SSB interviews should start their preparations in earnest. The SSB interview process is comprehensive and tests candidates on various parameters including psychological aptitude, leadership qualities, physical fitness, and communication skills. Candidates are advised to familiarize themselves with the format of the interview and prepare accordingly.
SSC Tech 63 Men Cut Off Marks
The SSC Tech 63 cut-off percentages for SSB shortlisting have been disclosed, offering a clear threshold for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Army through the Short Service Commission Technical course starting in October 2024. These cut-off marks are crucial for the evaluation and shortlisting process as they determine eligibility for the SSB interviews based on academic performance.
For the SSC Tech 63 course, the cut-off percentages are differentiated by engineering streams, reflecting the varying competitive levels across disciplines. Here is a brief overview of the cut-off marks:
Civil Engineering candidates need to have a cumulative marks percentage of 60 or above to be shortlisted for SSB.
Computer Science engineering graduates face a higher cut-off, with the required percentage set at 76.
Electrical Engineering candidates have a cut-off mark set at 63 percent.
For Electronics Engineering, the threshold is on par with Civil and Mechanical, at 60 percent.
Mechanical Engineering also sees a cut-off at 60 percent.
Candidates from Miscellaneous Engineering Streams are required to meet a cut-off percentage of 60 to be considered for SSB shortlisting.
The cut-off criteria are further detailed for candidates depending on their academic status:
For Passed Candidates: The cumulative marks percentage considered is up to the final semester or year of their engineering degree.
For Final Year/Semester Appearing Candidates: The criteria differ slightly:
Engineering degree course candidates are evaluated on the cumulative marks percentage up to the 6th semester.
For architecture students, the consideration extends up to the 8th semester.
M.Sc. candidates in notified streams should have their cumulative marks percentage up to the 2nd semester.
These cut-off marks are designed to streamline the selection of candidates who are not only academically proficient but also likely to succeed in the demanding SSB interview process. Aspiring candidates should ensure they meet or exceed these percentages to advance in the selection process for the prestigious SSC Tech course at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai
Final Thoughts:
The announcement of the SSB interview dates for the SSC Tech-63 course marks an important milestone for aspiring officers. It is a golden opportunity for engineering graduates to serve in the Indian Army and contribute to the nation’s defense. Candidates are encouraged to make the most of this opportunity by preparing thoroughly for the interviews and selecting their interview dates at the earliest.
As the selection process moves forward, shortlisted candidates must keep an eye on the official website for any updates or changes to the schedule. The Indian Army looks forward to welcoming a new batch of technically adept officers into its ranks through the SSC Tech-63 course at OTA Chennai.
In a heartwarming gesture aimed at promoting education, physical activity, and overall well-being, peacekeepers from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) hailing from India 🇮🇳 visited the Orphanage Home in Juba, South Sudan 🇸🇸.
Their mission: to bring smiles to the faces of 80 internally displaced children and encourage them to embrace healthy habits while fostering a sense of hope and empowerment.
Amidst the challenges faced by internally displaced children in conflict-affected regions, initiatives that promote peace, education, and holistic development are invaluable.
Recognizing this, the UNMISS peacekeepers embarked on a mission to uplift spirits and nurture young minds through a blend of compassion and tangible support.
On the grounds of the Orphanage Home in Juba, a scene of joy and excitement unfolded as UNMISS peacekeepers distributed footballs, cricket kits, stationery, clothes, and food to the eager children.
The sight of beaming faces and laughter echoed the message that peace begins with a smile, and healthy habits are the foundation for a brighter future.
The distribution of sports equipment such as footballs and cricket kits aimed to encourage physical activity among the children, promoting not only physical health but also fostering teamwork, discipline, and camaraderie.
Additionally, the provision of stationery and educational materials underscored the importance of learning and academic growth in shaping the aspirations of young minds.
Colonel Amit Sharma, leading the UNMISS peacekeeping contingent from India, expressed his satisfaction with the initiative, stating, “Our goal is not just to provide material support but to instill a sense of hope and resilience in these children.
By encouraging them to study and engage in physical activities, we hope to empower them to overcome the challenges they face and pursue their dreams.”
The visit by UNMISS peacekeepers was met with resounding applause from the local community and authorities, who lauded their efforts in promoting peace, stability, and human dignity in South Sudan.
Such initiatives serve as a testament to the unwavering commitment of UNMISS peacekeepers to support vulnerable populations and contribute to the long-term peace and prosperity of the country.
As the children of the Orphanage Home in Juba eagerly embraced their new gifts and opportunities, the message was clear: even in the midst of adversity, hope prevails, and the spirit of compassion knows no bounds.
The UNMISS peacekeepers from India 🇮🇳, through their actions, have not only brought joy and happiness to the children but have also planted seeds of peace, unity, and resilience that will continue to flourish in the years to come. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
In a bid to foster environmental sustainability and promote the conservation of natural resources, the Assam Rifles spearheaded a Tree Plantation Drive on the occasion of World Water Day at Deban Village in Changlang District, Arunachal Pradesh on March 22, 2024.
This initiative, aimed at mitigating the impact of deforestation and enhancing the green cover in the region, saw active participation from locals, village authorities, and members of the Assam Rifles.
With a vision to create a greener and healthier environment, the Tree Plantation Drive witnessed the planting of 480 saplings in and around Deban Village.
The diverse range of saplings, carefully selected to suit the local ecosystem, will not only contribute to the beautification of the village surroundings but also play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity, conserving soil, and mitigating climate change impacts.
The event served as a rallying point for community engagement and collective action towards sustainable development.
Locals and village authorities enthusiastically joined hands with members of the Assam Rifles, demonstrating their commitment to environmental stewardship and their resolve to safeguard the natural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.
Colonel Rajesh Sharma, Commanding Officer of the Assam Rifles in Changlang District, highlighted the significance of the Tree Plantation Drive in promoting ecological balance and addressing environmental challenges.
“Trees are the lifeline of our planet, and their conservation is paramount to our survival,” remarked Colonel Sharma. “Through initiatives like these, we aim to instill a sense of environmental responsibility and inspire future generations to become custodians of nature.”
The Tree Plantation Drive also provided an opportunity for the Assam Rifles to strengthen its bond with the local community and deepen its roots in the region.
By actively engaging with villagers and collaborating on initiatives that benefit the environment, the Assam Rifles reaffirmed its commitment to holistic development and community welfare.
World Water Day, celebrated annually on March 22, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about the importance of freshwater resources and advocate for the sustainable management of water systems.
The Tree Plantation Drive organized by the Assam Rifles in Deban Village aligns with the overarching theme of World Water Day, emphasizing the interconnectedness of water, ecosystems, and human well-being.
As the saplings take root and flourish in the fertile soil of Arunachal Pradesh, they symbolize a collective commitment to nurturing and preserving the natural heritage of the region.
The Tree Plantation Drive spearheaded by the Assam Rifles serves as a shining example of proactive environmental stewardship and community-driven conservation efforts, paving the way for a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future for generations to come.
In a significant display of leadership and strategic engagement, General Manoj Pande, the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), undertook a visit to the White Knight Corps and the forward areas of the Akhnoor sector in Jammu & Kashmir.
The visit, aimed at assessing operational preparedness and the prevailing security situation in the region, underscores the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to ensuring peace and stability along the Line of Control (LoC).
During his visit, COAS General Manoj Pande was briefed by commanders on the ground about the operational landscape and the security challenges faced in the Akhnoor sector.
These briefings provided valuable insights into the ground realities and enabled the COAS to gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic security environment in the region.
In a show of appreciation for the dedication and professionalism displayed by all ranks, COAS General Manoj Pande commended the troops for their unwavering commitment to excellence.
Their steadfast efforts have not only upheld the highest standards of professionalism but have also contributed significantly to maintaining a stable and secure environment in the region.
The Akhnoor sector holds strategic importance due to its proximity to the Line of Control and its historical significance in the context of India’s defense posture in Jammu & Kashmir.
As such, the COAS’s visit to this crucial area underscores the Indian Army’s proactive approach in ensuring the security and well-being of the local populace while also safeguarding the territorial integrity of the nation.
The COAS’s interactions with troops on the ground served as a morale booster, instilling a sense of pride and confidence among soldiers who continue to stand guard in challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions.
Their unwavering dedication and resilience in the face of adversity reflect the indomitable spirit of the Indian Army and its commitment to serving the nation.
As COAS General Manoj Pande concluded his visit to the Akhnoor sector, he reiterated the Indian Army’s resolve to uphold peace and stability in the region.
Through proactive engagement and constant vigilance, the Indian Army remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and protect its citizens from external threats.
The COAS’s visit to the White Knight Corps and the forward areas of the Akhnoor sector serves as a testament to the Indian Army’s readiness to respond to any challenge and its unwavering commitment to ensuring the security and well-being of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
