In a significant demonstration of its indigenous defence capabilities, India conducted a Tri-Services Live Fire and Manoeuvre Exercise in Pokhran, Rajasthan, aptly named ‘Bharat Shakti.’ This landmark event, attended by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, put the spotlight on an impressive range of home-grown weapon systems and platforms, embodying the nation’s push towards self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Prime Minister Modi, in his address, hailed the display as the embodiment of New India’s valor and skills. He remarked, “Today, Pokhran has once again become a testament to India’s Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), self-confidence, and its glorious strength.” He drew parallels with the historic nuclear tests conducted in the same location, emphasizing the significance of witnessing indigenous power.

Highlighting the recent successful test firing of the AGNI missile equipped with advanced MIRV technology, the Prime Minister underscored India’s entry into an elite group of countries with such advanced capabilities. This achievement, he noted, adds a significant feather in the cap of India’s self-reliance in defence.

Prime Minister Modi articulated a vision of a developed India that hinges on self-reliance, stressing the reduction of dependency on foreign entities. He provided examples ranging from edible oils to fighter jets, illustrating the breadth of India’s commitment to Aatmanirbharta. Among the notable mentions were the indigenously developed Tajas fighter jets, advanced light combat helicopters, and a range of other domestically produced military hardware, underscoring the might of Bharat Shakti.

In a push for bolstering India’s self-reliance in defence, the Prime Minister outlined several initiatives, including policy reforms, engagement of the private sector, and the establishment of defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, attracting investments worth Rs 7000 crore. The commencement of Asia’s largest helicopter factory in India was also highlighted as a significant achievement.

Over the last decade, India’s defence procurement from local companies has surged to Rs 6 lakh crore, doubling the country’s defence production to over Rs 1 lakh crore. The defence sector’s growth is further evidenced by the rise of over 150 defence startups, with the armed forces placing orders worth Rs 1800 crore with them.

Emphasizing the enhanced confidence and capability of the armed forces through the use of indigenously made weaponry, the Prime Minister reflected on India’s journey from being the world’s largest defence importer to a budding defence exporter. He also acknowledged the transformative efforts in corporatizing ordnance factories, revitalizing HAL, and establishing significant infrastructure and policies like the CDS, the War Memorial, and One Rank One Pension, which have collectively bolstered the defence ecosystem.

The exercise ‘Bharat Shakti’ not only showcased the advanced operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces but also symbolized India’s readiness to confront and overcome challenges with indigenous solutions. This event marks a pivotal moment in India’s defence narrative, showcasing the resilience, innovation, and burgeoning strength of its domestic defence industry on a global stage.

In a remarkable display of synergy and collaboration, the Indian Armed Forces, in conjunction with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), have undertaken a noble initiative to provide healthcare support to citizens residing in remote villages across the country under the Vibrant Village Program of the Government of India.

Under this laudable initiative, Lieutenant General SC Dash, Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (DCIDS MED) of HQ IDS India, inaugurated a Medical and Dental Camp at Chipsu village in Gangtok Tehsil.

Situated along the Northern borders, Chipsu village and its surrounding areas often face challenges in accessing basic medical facilities due to their remote location.

The Medical and Dental Camp, jointly conducted by Trishakti Corps in collaboration with Community Health Centers (CHC) and Primary Health Centers (PHC) of East Sikkim District, aimed to provide essential healthcare services to the residents of Chipsu village.

The camp witnessed the participation of over 250 villagers who availed themselves of medical consultations, dental check-ups, and other healthcare services.

The initiative underscores the commitment of the Indian Armed Forces to actively engage in nation-building endeavors, particularly in remote and underserved regions of the country.

By partnering with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and leveraging their resources and expertise, the Armed Forces are contributing significantly to enhancing the well-being and quality of life of citizens residing in these areas.

The Medical and Dental Camp at Chipsu village serves as a shining example of the Armed Forces’ dedication to serving the nation beyond their traditional roles of safeguarding borders and ensuring national security.

Through such initiatives, the Indian Armed Forces continue to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to the welfare and development of the people of India, embodying the spirit of solidarity and compassion in the pursuit of nation-building.

Under the auspices of the Indian Army’s Eastern Command, the esteemed Brahmastra Corps recently hosted a transformative two-week training camp for National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets.

The camp, held with meticulous planning and execution, aimed at instilling discipline, fostering patriotism, and honing the skills of the young cadets, shaping them into future defenders of the nation.

The rigorous training program, conducted under the watchful guidance of seasoned military personnel, provided the NCC cadets with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a military environment and undergo comprehensive training modules designed to enhance their physical fitness, mental resilience, and leadership qualities.

Throughout the duration of the camp, the cadets were exposed to a wide array of activities and exercises, including drill practice, obstacle courses, weapon handling drills, map reading, and fieldcraft.

These activities not only tested their physical endurance but also nurtured teamwork, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging among the participants.

Moreover, the training camp served as a platform for the cadets to gain valuable insights into the ethos and values of the Indian Army, fostering a deep sense of patriotism and national pride. Through interactive sessions, lectures, and motivational talks by distinguished military personnel, the cadets were inspired to embrace the spirit of selfless service and dedication to the nation.

The Brahmastra Corps, renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence and professionalism, left no stone unturned in ensuring that the training camp provided a holistic learning experience for the NCC cadets.

The cadets were not only challenged physically but also intellectually, as they engaged in discussions on topics ranging from national security to the role of youth in nation-building.

The successful culmination of the training camp was a testament to the dedication and hard work of all involved, including the officers, instructors, and support staff who tirelessly worked to orchestrate a seamless and impactful training program.

As the cadets bid farewell to the camp, they left with a renewed sense of purpose, equipped with newfound skills, and imbued with the values of discipline, courage, and service to the nation.

The Eastern Command, Brahmastra Corps, and the NCC leadership hailed the training camp as a resounding success, reaffirming their commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and defenders of the nation.

Through initiatives such as these, the Indian Army continues to inspire and empower the youth of the country, fostering a culture of excellence, patriotism, and selfless service.

The Madras Sapper Body Builders have once again showcased their prowess on the bodybuilding stage, with a remarkable performance at the South India Body Building Championship held in Karnataka on March 10, 2024.

Among the numerous participants from across the region, the Madras Sapper contingent stood out with their exceptional physique and dedication to the sport.

Leading the charge was Naik Felix Joyal AV, whose commanding presence and sculpted physique earned him well-deserved recognition. Competing in a field of formidable athletes, Naik Felix Joyal AV’s disciplined training regimen and unwavering determination propelled him to an impressive finish, securing a notable placement in the competition.

Another standout performer from the Madras Sapper team was Sapper Nammi Maaru Naidu, who clinched the coveted title of 1st Runner-up in the fiercely contested Champion of Champions category.

Sapper Nammi Maaru Naidu’s remarkable achievement is a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence in bodybuilding.

The South India Body Building Championship served as a platform for athletes to showcase their strength, physique, and overall fitness prowess.

Competing against some of the best bodybuilders from the region, the Madras Sapper Body Builders demonstrated exceptional skill, discipline, and athleticism, earning admiration and applause from the audience and fellow competitors alike.

The success of the Madras Sapper Body Builders is a reflection of their tireless efforts, rigorous training, and sheer determination to excel in the sport of bodybuilding.

Their remarkable performance at the South India Body Building Championship is a source of pride not only for the Madras Sappers but also for the entire Indian Army.

As they continue to inspire and motivate others with their achievements, the Madras Sapper Body Builders serve as role models for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that with dedication, discipline, and hard work, anything is possible.

Their success on the bodybuilding stage is a testament to the indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment of the Indian Army personnel to excel in every endeavor they undertake.

In a proactive move aimed at promoting optimal respiratory health among soldiers and their families, the Department of Respiratory Medicine at the Army Institute of Cardio Thoracic Sciences (AICTS) in Pune has initiated the first-ever Nasal Influenza Vaccination Drive for the Indian Armed Forces.

This groundbreaking initiative underscores the commitment of the military medical community to safeguard the health and well-being of service members and their loved ones.

The Nasal Influenza Vaccination Drive, launched on March 11, 2024, represents a significant step forward in preventive healthcare within the Indian Armed Forces.

With the onset of the influenza season, the importance of immunization against respiratory infections cannot be overstated, especially in the context of military operations where close quarters and demanding environments increase the risk of disease transmission.

Led by the Department of Respiratory Medicine at AICTS Pune, the vaccination drive aims to provide soldiers and their families with access to the latest and most effective influenza vaccines. By administering nasal vaccines, which offer a non-invasive and convenient alternative to traditional injections, the initiative seeks to overcome common barriers to vaccination and encourage widespread participation among military personnel and their dependents.

The Nasal Influenza Vaccination Drive is not only geared towards protecting individual health but also serves broader strategic objectives within the Indian Armed Forces.

By minimizing the incidence of respiratory illnesses, including influenza, the initiative contributes to maintaining operational readiness and effectiveness across military units. A healthy and resilient force is better equipped to fulfill its mission and respond to emerging threats and challenges, both at home and abroad.

The launch of the vaccination drive at AICTS Pune exemplifies the spirit of innovation and excellence that characterizes the Indian Armed Forces’ approach to healthcare delivery. Leveraging state-of-the-art medical facilities and expertise, military medical professionals are at the forefront of promoting preventive health measures and advancing medical research and innovation.

As the Nasal Influenza Vaccination Drive gains momentum, it is expected to benefit thousands of service members and their families stationed across various military installations and units.

By prioritizing respiratory health and immunization, the Indian Armed Forces demonstrate their unwavering commitment to the well-being of their personnel, ensuring that they remain fit, resilient, and ready to face any challenge.

Moving forward, initiatives like the Nasal Influenza Vaccination Drive serve as a testament to the Indian Armed Forces’ proactive approach to healthcare and their dedication to safeguarding the health and safety of those who serve the nation with courage and commitment.