In a momentous celebration of its rich heritage and illustrious legacy of service, the Armoured Corps Records commemorated its Platinum Jubilee and the 72nd Raising Day of the Special List Records Officers Cadre.

The occasion, marked by solemnity and pride, was graced by the presence of Major General Vikram Varma, Officer-in-Charge of Armoured Corps Records, who immortalized the historic event by releasing a ‘Special Cover.’

The Armoured Corps Records, an integral part of the Indian Army’s administrative machinery, has been instrumental in preserving the lineage, traditions, and accomplishments of the Armoured Corps over the past seven decades.

As the custodian of the Corps’ invaluable historical records and artifacts, the institution plays a pivotal role in perpetuating the ethos of courage, valor, and sacrifice that defines the Armoured Corps.

The Platinum Jubilee celebration signifies a moment of reflection and reverence for the Armoured Corps Records, as it looks back on 75 years of dedicated service to the nation. Since its inception, the institution has remained steadfast in its commitment to excellence, ensuring the meticulous maintenance and management of records pertaining to personnel, operations, and achievements of the Armoured Corps.

Under the visionary leadership of Major General Vikram Varma, the Armoured Corps Records has continued to uphold its legacy of excellence, adapting to the evolving needs and challenges of the modern era while staying true to its core principles. The release of the ‘Special Cover’ by Major General Varma serves as a poignant tribute to the indomitable spirit and enduring legacy of the Armoured Corps.

The Platinum Jubilee celebration also coincided with the 72nd Raising Day of the Special List Records Officers Cadre, a select group of officers entrusted with the responsibility of managing and preserving the archival treasures of the Armoured Corps.

The cadre, comprising dedicated professionals committed to upholding the highest standards of archival management, plays a vital role in safeguarding the historical legacy of the Armoured Corps for future generations.

The release of the ‘Special Cover’ by Major General Vikram Varma symbolizes not only the culmination of 75 years of dedicated service but also the beginning of a new chapter in the illustrious history of the Armoured Corps Records.

As the institution looks towards the future, it remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the values of honor, integrity, and professionalism that have been the hallmark of the Armoured Corps throughout its storied history.

The Platinum Jubilee celebration of the Armoured Corps Records serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and contributions of generations of soldiers who have served under its banner. As the institution continues its journey of excellence, it stands as a beacon of inspiration and pride for the entire Armoured Corps and the nation as a whole.

In a significant development aimed at enhancing cooperation and coordination in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) efforts across the Indo-Pacific region, the Ministry of Defence, in coordination with Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) India, hosted the handing over ceremony of the Chairmanship of the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Plus Expert Working Group (EWG) on HADR in New Delhi today.

The ceremony marked the transition of leadership as India and Indonesia, who served as the Co-Chairs of the EWG for the 4th Cycle from 2021 to 2023, formally handed over the baton to Singapore and New Zealand.

The exchange of leadership underscores the commitment of participating nations to collaborate closely in addressing the diverse challenges posed by natural disasters and humanitarian crises in the region.

The ADMM Plus EWG serves as a vital platform for facilitating dialogue, cooperation, and coordination among participating countries in addressing HADR challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

Through a concerted and collective approach, the EWG endeavors to enhance preparedness, response, and recovery efforts in the aftermath of natural calamities and humanitarian emergencies.

India and Indonesia, during their tenure as Co-Chairs of the EWG, made significant contributions towards advancing HADR cooperation and capacity-building initiatives in the region.

Their efforts were aimed at strengthening institutional frameworks, fostering interoperability, and sharing best practices to better respond to disasters and alleviate the suffering of affected populations.

As Singapore and New Zealand assume the Chairmanship of the ADMM Plus EWG on HADR, they are poised to build upon the foundation laid by their predecessors and further enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of HADR mechanisms in the Indo-Pacific.

The incoming Co-Chairs bring with them a wealth of experience and expertise, along with a shared commitment to promoting regional resilience and preparedness in the face of disasters.

The EWG’s mandate encompasses a wide range of activities, including capacity-building workshops, joint exercises, and information-sharing initiatives, aimed at strengthening the collective response to HADR challenges.

By fostering greater cooperation and coordination among member states, the EWG seeks to mitigate the impact of disasters, save lives, and promote stability and security in the region.

In light of the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters in the Indo-Pacific, the ADMM Plus EWG on HADR assumes greater significance as a key mechanism for promoting regional resilience and cooperation.

As Singapore and New Zealand assume leadership roles, the international community looks forward to continued collaboration and partnership in addressing shared challenges and building a safer and more resilient future for all.

In a significant endeavor aimed at fostering deeper insights and understanding of India’s burgeoning defence industry, the Junior Leadership of the Indian Armed Forces currently undergoing the Defence Services Staff Course (DSTSC-06) at MILIT, Pune, embarked on an Industrial Demonstration Tour across key facilities in Pune.

The visit, which included stops at Tata Communications, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), and Bharat Forge, provided student officers with a firsthand glimpse into the corporate processes and technological advancements driving India’s quest towards self-reliance in defence.

As the country continues to prioritize indigenization and self-sufficiency in defence production, initiatives like the Industrial Demonstration Tour play a pivotal role in equipping junior leadership with the requisite knowledge and exposure to cutting-edge technologies and practices prevalent in the defence industry.

Led by MILIT faculty and industry experts, the tour aimed to broaden the horizons of student officers and deepen their appreciation of the complexities and innovations inherent in India’s defence ecosystem.

At Tata Communications, the student officers were privy to the company’s state-of-the-art facilities and operations, gaining insights into the critical role played by communication networks in modern warfare.

The visit provided them with valuable exposure to the latest advancements in communication technology and their applications in enhancing the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the Indian Armed Forces.

The tour then proceeded to HEMRL, where student officers had the opportunity to witness firsthand the research and development efforts aimed at developing high-energy materials crucial for defence applications.

Exploring laboratories and engaging with scientists and researchers, the officers gained valuable insights into the indigenous efforts towards developing cutting-edge technologies to meet the evolving needs of India’s defence forces.

The final leg of the Industrial Demonstration Tour took the student officers to Bharat Forge, a leading player in the defence manufacturing sector. Here, they were acquainted with the advanced manufacturing processes and capabilities that underpin Bharat Forge’s contribution to India’s defence preparedness.

From forging and machining to assembly and testing, the officers gained a comprehensive understanding of the intricate processes involved in the production of critical defence equipment.

Overall, the Industrial Demonstration Tour proved to be an enriching and enlightening experience for the Junior Leadership of the Indian Armed Forces undergoing DSTSC-06 at MILIT, Pune.

The exposure to corporate processes and the high degree of technological advancements witnessed during the tour not only broadened their horizons but also reaffirmed their commitment to leveraging indigenous capabilities and fostering self-reliance in defence production.

As India’s defence industry continues to evolve and innovate, initiatives like the Industrial Demonstration Tour serve as catalysts for nurturing a generation of leaders well-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern warfare and drive India’s quest towards becoming a global powerhouse in defence manufacturing.

Armed with knowledge and insights gained from such experiences, the Junior Leadership of the Indian Armed Forces stands poised to lead the nation towards a future of security, sovereignty, and self-sufficiency.

In a testament to their unwavering commitment and readiness to defend the nation’s borders, warriors of the Battle Axe Division recently undertook a rigorous battle inoculation exercise at Pokhran.

Carrying out validation and honing of combat drills, the detachments engaged in intensive training sessions that prepared them for challenging and dynamic battlefield scenarios.

Under the banner of the Desert Corps, the BattleAxe Division’s warriors embarked on a journey of self-improvement and preparedness, embodying the ethos of “Forging Fearless Defenders.” With precision and determination, they delved into the heart of battle, honing their combat skills and fine-tuning their tactical maneuvers to perfection.

The battle inoculation exercise served as a platform for the warriors to test their mettle and readiness in simulated combat environments.

From urban warfare scenarios to rugged terrain challenges, the soldiers of the Battle Axe Division confronted a spectrum of adversities, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

Amidst the vast expanse of the Pokhran desert, the warriors of the Battle Axe Division showcased their prowess and agility, executing combat drills with unparalleled precision and efficiency. Their unwavering focus and dedication to duty exemplified their resolve to defend the nation’s sovereignty and uphold its honour on every front.

The rigorous training regimen undertaken by the Battle Axe Division’s warriors underscored their preparedness to confront any threat and emerge victorious on the battlefield.

Through relentless perseverance and unwavering commitment, they reaffirmed their status as the frontline defenders of the nation, poised to confront any challenge with valour and fortitude.

As the sun set over the horizon, casting a golden glow over the desert landscape, the warriors of the Battle Axe Division concluded their battle inoculation exercise with a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Their indomitable spirit and unwavering determination serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the unyielding resolve of India’s armed forces to safeguard the nation’s security and sovereignty.

In the annals of military history, the Battle Axe Division’s warriors will be remembered as fearless defenders who stood firm in the face of adversity, forging a legacy of valor and honor that will endure for generations to come.

Their sacrifices and selfless service to the nation serve as a source of pride for every Indian, inspiring a sense of unity and patriotism that transcends all boundaries.

In a historic feat marking a significant milestone in India’s defence sector, Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane presided over the maiden test-firing of India’s first indigenously-made 1500 Horsepower (HP) engine for Main Battle Tanks at BEML’s Engine division in Mysuru complex on March 20, 2024.

This landmark achievement ushers in a new era in the country’s defence capabilities, showcasing India’s technological prowess and commitment to self-reliance in defence technologies.

The 1500 HP engine represents a groundbreaking advancement in military propulsion systems, boasting cutting-edge features such as a high power-to-weight ratio and operability in extreme conditions, including high altitudes, sub-zero temperatures, and desert environments.

Equipped with advanced technologies, the engine stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the most advanced engines globally, positioning India as a frontrunner in defence innovation.

Inaugurating the Test Cell, Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane hailed the achievement as a transformative moment that will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces. CMD of BEML, Shri Shantanu Roy, expressed pride in BEML’s contribution to defence production in the country, reaffirming its commitment to serving the nation’s needs in this critical sector.

The first test-firing of the 1500 HP engine marks the completion of Generation One, focusing on technology stabilization. Generation Two will witness BEML producing engines for various trials at the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment, a DRDO laboratory, followed by their integration into actual vehicles for user testing.

The project is slated for completion by mid-2025. Initiated in August 2020, the project has been meticulously structured into five major milestones, ensuring timely completion and adherence to quality standards.

During the event, the Defence Secretary also inaugurated the ‘Wall of Fame’ to recognize the extraordinary efforts of the BEML team.

This symbolic gesture honors their invaluable contribution towards advancing the defence capabilities of the country and achieving milestones in indigenous technological innovation. Senior civil and military officers of the Ministry of Defence, industry partners, and officials of BEML Ltd graced the occasion, acknowledging the significance of this momentous achievement.

The successful test-firing of the indigenous 1500 HP engine marks a moment of pride for India, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to self-reliance and innovation in defence technologies.

As India continues to strengthen its indigenous defence capabilities, initiatives like these pave the way for a secure and self-sufficient future, ensuring the protection and prosperity of the nation for generations to come.

In a display of valor and quick response, the Assam Rifles came to the rescue to avert a major fire incident that broke out near the Chakesang Baptist Church in Kohima, Nagaland, on March 19, 2024.

The incident, sparked by a household fire, presumably from a gas cylinder, threatened to engulf surrounding buildings and houses, posing a grave risk to lives and property. However, the swift action and coordinated efforts of the Assam Rifles troops prevented a catastrophe, underscoring their role as guardians of peace and safety in the region.

Upon receiving the distress call, the troops of Assam Rifles immediately rushed to the site of the fire, displaying exemplary bravery and dedication to duty.

With precision and efficiency, they swiftly evacuated individuals and materials from the vicinity, ensuring the safety of the residents and minimizing the risk of casualties.

Despite the challenging circumstances, the Assam Rifles personnel wasted no time in springing into action, marshaling all available resources to combat the raging inferno.

The brave men of Assam Rifles, armed with courage and determination, commenced firefighting operations using available resources, including water and fire extinguishers.

Their prompt and decisive actions played a crucial role in containing the spread of the fire and preventing it from engulfing nearby market buildings and houses.

Through their unwavering commitment and selfless service, the Assam Rifles troops managed to bring the situation under control, averting a potential disaster and saving countless lives and livelihoods.

The timely intervention of the Assam Rifles in averting the major fire incident near Chakesang Baptist Church in Kohima stands as a testament to their professionalism and readiness to respond to emergencies.

Their swift response and effective coordination highlight the importance of a well-prepared and proactive approach in addressing crises and safeguarding communities.

Speaking about the incident, a spokesperson for the Assam Rifles expressed gratitude for the successful containment of the fire and emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the people of Nagaland.

He stated, “The Assam Rifles remains steadfast in its mission to protect and serve the people of Nagaland. Our troops’ swift action in averting the major fire incident near Chakesang Baptist Church underscores our commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the region.”

The incident serves as a reminder of the vital role played by the Assam Rifles in maintaining peace and security in Nagaland and the Northeastern region at large.

As the guardians of the frontier, the Assam Rifles continues to stand as a beacon of hope and protection, ready to respond to any crisis and ensure the well-being of the people it serves.

In a significant blow to insurgent activities in Manipur, the Assam Rifles, in a swift and decisive operation, neutralized an insurgent training camp located in the General Area Pengpalep of Tengnoupal District on March 17, 2024.

The operation, conducted based on credible intelligence inputs, resulted in the dismantling of the camp’s infrastructure and the seizure of a cache of weapons and ammunition, thereby thwarting potential threats to peace and security in the region.

The Assam Rifles, known for its exemplary counter-insurgency operations in the Northeastern region, launched the operation following actionable intelligence regarding the presence of insurgents in the area.

With meticulous planning and precise execution, the security forces swiftly mobilized to the target location, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the interests of the local populace and upholding the rule of law.

Upon reaching the General Area Pengpalep in Tengnoupal District, the Assam Rifles encountered fierce resistance from the insurgents entrenched within the training camp.

However, through sheer determination and valor, the security forces successfully neutralized the threat posed by the insurgents, dismantling the camp’s infrastructure and eliminating any potential for further insurgent activities in the region.

During the operation, the Assam Rifles seized a significant quantity of weapons and ammunition from the insurgent training camp, including firearms, explosives, and other war-like stores. The seizure of these weapons underscores the imminent threat posed by insurgent groups operating in the region and the critical importance of preemptive action by security forces to maintain peace and stability.

The successful neutralization of the insurgent training camp in Tengnoupal District is a testament to the Assam Rifles’ unwavering resolve and professionalism in combating insurgency in Manipur.

By proactively targeting and dismantling insurgent infrastructure, the Assam Rifles reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the local populace and upholding the integrity of the nation.

Following the operation, efforts are underway to gather actionable intelligence and track down any remaining insurgents who may pose a threat to peace and stability in the region.

The Assam Rifles remains vigilant and prepared to respond to any emerging security challenges, ensuring that Manipur continues on the path of progress and development without the shadow of insurgency looming overhead.

The neutralization of the insurgent training camp in Tengnoupal District marks a significant victory for the Assam Rifles and reinforces their role as the vanguard of peace and security in the Northeastern region.

As the security situation continues to evolve, the Assam Rifles remains steadfast in its mission to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India while safeguarding the aspirations of the people of Manipur.