In a distinguished ceremony held on March 6, 2024, the Honorable Governor of Tamil Nadu, Shri RN Ravi, awarded the prestigious Governor’s Citation of Appreciation to both the Madras Regimental Centre and the 12th Battalion of the Madras Regiment.
This commendable recognition was presented for their exceptional performance and humanitarian efforts during the Michaung Cyclone-induced floods that devastated Chennai in December 2023 and later in the Thoothkudi district.
Lt Gen Manjinder Singh, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOCinC) of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) and Colonel of the Madras Regiment, extended his congratulations to all ranks of the Madras Regimental Centre and the 12th Battalion of the Madras Regiment for their outstanding service.
The Governor handed over the citations to the Commandant of the Madras Regimental Centre and the Commanding Officer of the 12 MADRAS, recognizing their bravery, dedication, and significant contributions to the rescue and relief operations during the calamitous floods.
This accolade underscores the valor and commitment of the Indian Army’s units in not only safeguarding the nation’s borders but also playing a crucial role in disaster management and aid.
Their efforts during the Michaung Cyclone have been instrumental in mitigating the impact of the floods, providing much-needed relief to the affected communities, and restoring normalcy in the aftermath of the disaster.
In a historic milestone for the Indian Navy, INAS 334 ‘Seahawks,’ the first MH 60R Squadron, was formally commissioned today at INS Garuda, Southern Naval Command, Kochi. The ceremony, presided over by Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Chief of Naval Staff, marked the official induction of these versatile and capable helicopters into the Indian Navy’s fleet.
The commissioning of INAS 334 ‘Seahawks’ represents a significant leap forward in the Indian Navy’s maritime capabilities, enhancing its operational readiness and effectiveness in maritime security and defense.
The MH 60R helicopters, renowned for their advanced capabilities and versatility, will play a crucial role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests and ensuring security across the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean region.
Commanded by Captain M Abhisheik Ram, the first MH 60R Naval Air Squadron, INAS 334 ‘Seahawks,’ is poised to redefine naval aviation with its state-of-the-art helicopters and highly trained personnel. The squadron’s establishment underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to modernization and readiness to meet the evolving challenges of the maritime domain.
The MH 60R helicopters are equipped with cutting-edge technology and advanced systems, including radar, sonar, and electronic warfare suites, making them formidable assets for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue operations.
With their superior capabilities, the Seahawks will bolster the Indian Navy’s ability to detect and deter maritime threats, ensuring the safety and security of India’s maritime borders.
Admiral R Hari Kumar, addressing the gathering at the commissioning ceremony, hailed the commissioning of INAS 334 ‘Seahawks’ as a significant milestone in the Indian Navy’s journey towards enhancing its operational capabilities.
He commended the dedication and professionalism of the personnel involved in the establishment of the squadron and expressed confidence in their ability to fulfill their duties with excellence and distinction.
The commissioning of INAS 334 ‘Seahawks’ represents a proud moment for the Indian Navy, showcasing its commitment to maintaining a strong and capable maritime force capable of safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests and projecting power across the seas.
As the first MH 60R Squadron takes flight, it heralds a new era of naval aviation excellence and reinforces India’s status as a maritime power to be reckoned with.
In a dedicated effort to foster connections and support amidst challenging circumstances, the Indian Army organized multiple Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Rallies across different districts in Manipur.
Despite the prevailing security situation, these rallies held significant importance in bridging the gap between the armed forces and the esteemed ESM fraternity.
Spanning across various districts, including Bishnupur, Senapati, and Churachandpur, the rallies were instrumental in bringing together veterans from diverse backgrounds.
The overwhelming response from the community underscored the significance of such initiatives in fostering camaraderie and support networks, even amidst adversity.
The events witnessed an impressive turnout, with over 2000 personnel in attendance. Among them were over 1650 veterans, 50 Veer Naris, 180 widows, and 65 dependents, showcasing the diverse spectrum of individuals served by the Indian Army. Notably, war veterans from conflicts such as the 1965 war, 1971 war, and Operation Vijay-1999 were among the honored guests.
Conducted under the aegis of the Spear Corps by the Red Shield Division, the rallies served a dual purpose.
Firstly, they provided a platform for interaction and engagement with the ESM fraternity, fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity during turbulent times. Secondly, the rallies facilitated crucial services such as resolving pension documentation issues and addressing grievances promptly.
Dedicated assistance booths were set up at each rally site, offering support and guidance on various matters including healthcare, pension anomalies, documentation, ECHS Polyclinic services, CSD, and Army recruitment. This comprehensive approach ensured that the unique needs and concerns of the ESM community were addressed effectively.
Maj Gen Sameer Sharan Kartikeya, SM, the General Officer Commanding of the Red Shield Division, extended his gratitude to the veterans and their families for their invaluable sacrifices and services to the nation.
He applauded the unwavering support of the ESM community towards the Armed Forces, particularly amidst the prevailing security challenges in Manipur. Assuring swift redressal of grievances, Maj Gen Kartikeya emphasized the army’s commitment to serving those who have served the nation.
Furthermore, the rallies featured medical camps organized by medical and dental specialists from the Army and District Hospitals. These camps provided essential medical assistance, treatment, and provision of necessary medicines, addressing the healthcare needs of the attendees comprehensively.
The Ex-Servicemen Rallies in Manipur stand as a testament to the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to its veterans, Veer Naris, and war widows, particularly during times of crisis.
They exemplify the spirit of camaraderie and solidarity that defines the ethos of the Indian Armed Forces, reaffirming their pledge to stand by those who have dedicated their lives to serving the nation.
In a heroic act of compassion and selflessness, a soldier’s son consented to donate his mother’s kidneys, honouring her legacy and becoming a beacon of hope for those in need.
The organ retrieval, performed by super specialist doctors at Command Hospital, Eastern Command, on March 5, 2024, marked the beginning of a life-saving journey that holds the promise of renewed lives for two individuals.
The soldier’s decision to donate his mother’s kidneys amidst the throes of grief exemplifies the profound impact of altruism and the enduring legacy of love and compassion. It is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, transcending personal loss to bring light and hope to others in need.
Under the supervision of top medical professionals, the organ retrieval procedure at Command Hospital, Eastern Command, was executed with precision and care, ensuring the viability of the donated kidneys for transplantation.
The dedication and expertise of the medical team ensured that the soldier’s noble gesture translated into tangible opportunities for individuals awaiting life-saving transplants.
Following the successful retrieval of the kidneys, a swift and coordinated effort was initiated to transport the organs to their intended recipients. A green corridor was established to expedite the transportation process, enabling the kidneys to reach their destination at the Army Hospital Research and Referral (AHRR) without delay.
The Indian Air Force played a pivotal role in facilitating the transportation of the kidneys, deploying a special aircraft to ensure the timely and safe delivery of the organs. The seamless coordination between medical personnel, transportation authorities, and the armed forces exemplified the collaborative effort aimed at saving lives and upholding the spirit of humanity.
The Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) lauded the soldier’s compassionate act and the collective efforts of all involved in the organ donation and transplantation process.
He emphasized the importance of organ donation in addressing the critical shortage of organs for transplantation and urged individuals to consider becoming organ donors, thereby offering the gift of life to those in need.
The successful transplantation of the donated kidneys at AHRR symbolizes the culmination of a remarkable journey fueled by compassion, determination, and unwavering commitment to saving lives. For the recipients of the donated organs, it signifies the dawn of a new chapter filled with hope, possibilities, and the promise of renewed health and vitality.
As the soldier’s act of kindness reverberates across communities, it serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of compassion and the enduring legacy of love and generosity.
In honouring his mother’s memory through the gift of life, the soldier has not only provided solace to his own grief but has also bestowed hope upon those in desperate need, embodying the true essence of humanity and selflessness.
In a significant move aimed at bolstering India’s maritime security posture in the strategically vital Lakshadweep Islands, the Indian Navy commissioned a new naval base named ‘INS Jatayu’ at Minicoy on March 6.
This development marks a crucial milestone in enhancing the operational reach and capabilities of the Indian Navy in the region, particularly in the context of anti-piracy and anti-narcotics operations in the Western Arabian Sea.
Minicoy, the southernmost island of Lakshadweep, holds immense strategic importance as it straddles the vital sea lines of communication in the Indian Ocean region. The establishment of Naval Detachment INS Jatayu underscores the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding these critical maritime routes and ensuring the security of India’s maritime domain.
Commissioned by Navy Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar, INS Jatayu is the second naval base in Lakshadweep after INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti.
Commandant Vrat Baghel has been appointed to lead the operations of INS Jatayu. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Admiral Hari Kumar highlighted the significance of the unit’s name, drawing parallels to the mythical character Jatayu from the epic Ramayana.
“In the Ramayana, Jatayu was the ‘first responder’, exemplifying service before self. The naming of this unit as Jatayu is an apt recognition of this spirit of providing security surveillance and selfless service,” remarked Admiral Hari Kumar.
He emphasized the pivotal role of INS Jatayu in providing crucial situational awareness to the Indian Navy, akin to the information relayed by Jatayu to Lord Ram in the epic.
Admiral Hari Kumar underscored the importance of heightened surveillance amidst prevailing geopolitical developments, emphasizing the strategic significance of Lakshadweep to India’s maritime security. He highlighted the Indian Navy’s assertive posture in responding to maritime threats, including terrorism, crime, and piracy in the Arabian Sea.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Lakshadweep Island Administrator Praful Khoda Patel, Southern Naval Command chief Vice Admiral V. Srinivas, and Western Naval Command chief Vice Admiral Sanjay J. Singh.
Administrator Patel revealed plans for an airstrip at Minicoy in its final stages of approval and the imminent operationalization of a 24-hour chopper hangar at Kavaratti. He also announced the allocation of land for setting up a radar base for the Indian Air Force in Lakshadweep.
Naval Officer-in-Charge (Lakshadweep) Captain Lovekesh Thakur emphasized the strategic importance of Minicoy, situated on traditional trade routes, as a gathering point for maritime intelligence. He highlighted the enhanced surveillance capabilities of INS Jatayu, crucial for monitoring shipping movements and ensuring maritime security along vital trade routes.
The commissioning of INS Jatayu signifies a significant stride towards strengthening India’s maritime security architecture, reaffirming the Indian Navy’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests in the Indian Ocean region.
With INS Jatayu now operational, the Indian Navy is better equipped to address emerging maritime challenges and maintain maritime domain awareness in the region.
In a significant event held at Babina, Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh, General Officer Commanding (GOC) Sudarshan Chakra Corps, shared profound insights with the Scholar Warriors of Southern Army Command during the Pre-Staff Course.
With a focus on the imperative role of Professional Military Education (PME), Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh emphasized its pivotal significance in shaping the future leaders of the military, particularly highlighting its relevance within the White Tiger Division.
The gathering at Babina witnessed an enriching discourse as Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh delved into the nuances of military leadership and the evolving landscape of modern warfare. Addressing the scholar warriors, he underscored the critical need for a comprehensive understanding of military strategy, tactics, and operations, which are fundamental pillars of Professional Military Education.
Highlighting the dynamic nature of contemporary security challenges, Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh emphasized the necessity for military leaders to possess a broad spectrum of knowledge and skills.
From counterinsurgency operations to conventional warfare and emerging domains like cyber warfare and asymmetric threats, he stressed the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the face of evolving threats.
Moreover, Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh elucidated on the transformative impact of Professional Military Education in fostering strategic thinking, analytical skills, and decision-making abilities among military personnel.
He emphasized that PME not only equips officers with the requisite knowledge but also instills in them the leadership qualities essential for effective command and management in diverse operational scenarios.
The discourse resonated strongly with the attendees, comprising officers from various branches and ranks within the Southern Army Command. Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh’s insights provided a holistic perspective on the multifaceted dimensions of modern warfare and the evolving role of military leaders in ensuring national security.
The Pre-Staff Course at Babina served as a platform for fostering intellectual engagement and collaborative learning among military professionals. Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh’s address reinforced the commitment of the armed forces towards nurturing a cadre of competent and visionary leaders capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century battlefield.
The White Tiger Division, known for its exemplary service and operational prowess, stands to benefit significantly from the emphasis laid on Professional Military Education by senior leadership.
By integrating the principles and practices advocated by Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh, the division is poised to enhance its operational effectiveness and readiness to tackle a spectrum of security challenges.
As the armed forces navigate through an era of rapid technological advancements and geopolitical complexities, the role of Professional Military Education becomes even more indispensable.
Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh’s insightful discourse at Babina serves as a timely reminder of the imperative to invest in intellectual capital and foster a culture of continuous learning within the military fraternity.
In conclusion, the Pre-Staff Course at Babina witnessed a thought-provoking session led by Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh, wherein the significance of Professional Military Education in shaping future military leaders was underscored.
As the armed forces march ahead into an uncertain future, the principles espoused during this discourse are poised to guide and inspire a new generation of scholar warriors within the Southern Army Command and beyond.
In a collaborative effort to bolster disaster response capabilities and enhance coordination among various stakeholders, the Indian Army’s Eastern Command recently conducted the biennial Joint Exercise “Nagarik Madad” at Barrackpore Military Station.
The exercise, focused on Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) disaster scenarios, saw the active participation of multiple agencies including the 2nd Battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) based in Kolkata, the West Bengal Police, the West Bengal Fire and Emergency Department, and various departments of the district administration.
During the exercise, scenarios simulating CBRN disasters were meticulously crafted to evaluate the readiness and effectiveness of response mechanisms.
The seamless integration of resources and personnel from different organizations was put to the test in a series of realistic simulations, aiming to enhance interoperability and coordination during crisis situations.
The joint exercise provided an invaluable opportunity for all participating agencies to familiarize themselves with each other’s capabilities, protocols, and communication channels. It also served as a platform for sharing best practices, lessons learned, and innovative approaches to disaster management.
The whole-hearted participation and commitment demonstrated by all stakeholders underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in mitigating the impact of disasters and ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens.
The success of the exercise highlighted the effectiveness of joint training initiatives in building a robust response mechanism to tackle various contingencies.
Speaking on the occasion, representatives from the Indian Army, NDRF, West Bengal Police, and other agencies emphasized the significance of such exercises in enhancing preparedness and response capabilities. They reaffirmed their commitment to continued cooperation and coordination to address emerging challenges and safeguard the lives and property of the people.
The exercise also received praise from the Ministry of Defence, with the spokesperson acknowledging the dedication and professionalism exhibited by all participants.
The successful conduct of Exercise Nagarik Madad serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Indian Army and its partners to ensuring the safety and security of the nation and its citizens, even in the face of complex and challenging scenarios.
In a remarkable revelation, the head of India’s Space Research Organization (ISRO), S Somanath, recently disclosed in an interview that he received a cancer diagnosis on the same day that the country’s first solar observatory, Aditya-L1, was launched.
The Aditya-L1 mission, aimed at studying the Sun, was launched atop PSLV-C57 on September 2 amidst great anticipation and excitement. However, amidst the jubilation surrounding this momentous event, Somanath’s personal health took an unexpected turn.
Recalling the events of that fateful day, Somanath revealed in a Malayalam interview with Tarmak Media House, “I performed a scan in the morning of the day Aditya-L1 was launched.” It was during this scan that he became aware of a growth in his stomach. The diagnosis came as a shock, coinciding with the historic launch of the solar observatory.
Following the diagnosis, Somanath underwent surgery and subsequently embarked on a journey of chemotherapy.
He candidly shared the news with his family, acknowledging the initial shock it brought to them. However, he now views his battle with cancer as a challenge to overcome rather than an insurmountable obstacle.
Despite his recent health setback, S Somanath continues to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Space and Chairman of the Space Commission, showcasing remarkable dedication to his work at ISRO.
With a distinguished career in space research and expertise in system engineering of launch vehicles, his contributions to projects like PSLV and GSLV Mk-III have been invaluable.
Somanath’s fight against cancer serves as a testament to his inner strength and resilience. His unwavering commitment to his responsibilities at ISRO despite facing personal adversity is truly commendable.
As he reflects on his journey, Somanath’s story serves as an inspiration to all. From receiving a diagnosis on the day of Aditya-L1’s launch to declaring himself cancer-free, his journey is a testament to the power of hope, determination, and triumph over adversity.
In a commendable display of skill and precision, Lieutenant Amitabh Charupa of the Konark Gunners Brigade has brought pride to his unit by securing a Silver medal at the 17th General JJ Singh Officers Air Weapon Competition.
The event, which took place at the prestigious Army Marksmanship Unit in Mhow, showcased some of the finest talents in the realm of air rifle shooting.
The 10 Meter Air Rifle Event, known for its high demands on focus and accuracy, witnessed Lt. Charupa’s exceptional performance as he competed against top soldiers from across the military.
His achievement has not only honored the Konark Gunners Brigade but also set a high benchmark for future participants.
The Southern Star achiever’s success at this esteemed competition underscores the rigorous training and dedication of our armed forces’ personnel in mastering their craft.
In a landmark event for the Indian Navy, the first edition of Commanders’ Conference CC 24/1 was launched by the Honorable Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh, onboard the prestigious INS Vikramaditya. This significant event marked a momentous occasion, highlighting the prowess and operational capabilities of the Indian Navy.
The Honorable Raksha Mantri engaged in an interactive session with all naval commanders and esteemed visitors aboard the aircraft carrier. The distinguished attendees included the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), and the Defence Secretary, showcasing the event’s high-profile and strategic importance.
A highlight of the event was the Indian Navy’s demonstration of twin carrier operations for the Raksha Mantri. This demonstration underscored the Navy’s advanced operational readiness and strategic capabilities.
The high-paced operations at sea featured multi-ship tactical maneuvers, emphasizing the Navy’s agility and coordination in a dynamic maritime environment.
An Air Power Demo was another focal point of the day’s activities, showcasing the simultaneous launch and recovery of fighter aircraft from both aircraft carriers. This complex operation illustrated the Indian Navy’s air power and the seamless integration of naval and air operations.
The event concluded with a spectacular steam past and fly past by naval ships and aircraft, serving as a fitting end to a day that highlighted the Indian Navy’s strength, operational excellence, and commitment to securing the nation’s maritime interests.
This inaugural edition of CC 24/1 not only reinforces the Navy’s strategic capabilities but also emphasizes India’s growing prowess in the maritime domain.
