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Lt Gen PK Mishra Reviews Operational Preparedness at Dharmund Garrison Amid Counter-Terrorism Efforts in Chenab Valley

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Lieutenant General PK Mishra, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps, visited Dharmund Garrison on Thursday to assess the operational preparedness and ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in the Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban districts of Jammu and Kashmir. The visit underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Chenab Valley, a region that has witnessed a surge in terror-related incidents over the past two years.

During his visit, Lt Gen Mishra commended the troops for their unwavering resolve and professionalism in the fight against terrorism. He lauded their tireless efforts, emphasizing the critical role they play in safeguarding the region. The GOC also took the opportunity to interact with ex-servicemen, acknowledging their continued dedication to nation-building and their contributions to strengthening community resilience.

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The White Knight Corps, also known as XVI Corps, is headquartered in Nagrota and oversees some of the most strategic and sensitive areas in Jammu and Kashmir, including Rajouri, Poonch, Doda, and Kishtwar. These districts have been focal points of anti-terror operations, with recent incidents highlighting the persistent threat of terrorism in the region. Just months ago, in August 2024, Captain Singh of the Indian Army succumbed to injuries sustained during an operation in Doda, marking the fourth encounter in the Udhampuri-Doda-Kishtwar region in a short span. Additionally, a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) was killed in an anti-terror operation in Kishtwar in November 2024, further underscoring the challenges faced by security forces.

Lt Gen Mishra, who assumed command of the White Knight Corps on April 1, 2025, succeeding Lt Gen Navin Sachdeva, has prioritized operational excellence and fostering peace in the region. His visit to Dharmund Garrison comes at a time when the Indian Army is intensifying efforts to curb terrorist activities, including training Village Defence Guards (VDGs) in border areas to bolster anti-infiltration measures. The Chenab Brigade, under the White Knight Corps, has been actively involved in such initiatives, with a recent training program for VDGs launched in January 2025 in Jammu district.

The GOC’s engagement with ex-servicemen also reflects the Army’s strategy to strengthen community ties and leverage local support in counter-terrorism efforts. This approach aligns with the broader vision of enhancing the Army’s operational capabilities while maintaining a strong bond with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, as emphasized by Lt Gen Sachdeva during his tenure.

The Indian Army continues to face challenges in the region, with allegations of civilian mistreatment during operations in Kishtwar in November 2024 currently under investigation. Despite these hurdles, the White Knight Corps remains steadfast in its mission to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of the region’s residents.

The visit to Dharmund Garrison is a testament to the Indian Army’s proactive stance in addressing security threats and fostering peace in Jammu and Kashmir, even as external forces continue to fuel residual terrorism in the area.

RIMC Cadets Visit Tiger Division in Jammu for Educational Tour

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In a significant youth engagement initiative, 29 cadets from the Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun, visited Jammu as part of an educational tour organized by the Indian Army. The cadets, aspiring future leaders of the armed forces, were hosted by the Tiger Division, a prominent infantry unit under the Western Command of the Indian Army, known for its strategic role in the region.

The visit provided the young cadets with a firsthand experience of military life. A key highlight of the tour was a weapon and equipment display, where the cadets witnessed an array of military gear, including advanced sniper rifles and missile launchers, showcasing the Indian Army’s operational capabilities. The display aimed to inspire and educate the cadets about the technological and tactical aspects of modern warfare.

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The cadets also had the opportunity to interact with the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Tiger Division, gaining insights into leadership, discipline, and the responsibilities of serving in the armed forces. The event took place in an open area with the iconic “Tiger Division” signage in the background, symbolizing the unit’s proud legacy.

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The Rashtriya Indian Military College, established in 1922 in Dehradun, is a Category A establishment of the Ministry of Defence and a feeder institution for the National Defence Academy (NDA), Indian Naval Academy, and the Indian Armed Forces. Such educational tours are designed to nurture the next generation of military leaders by providing them with early exposure to the army’s operations and ethos.

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The Rising Star Corps, which shared details of the event on social media, emphasized the importance of engaging future leaders through such initiatives. The visit underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to fostering patriotism and military awareness among the youth, ensuring a strong foundation for the country’s defense forces.

The event received positive reactions online, with netizens praising the initiative for shaping the “future tigers” of the Indian Army. The Tiger Division, historically known for its contributions during operations like Operation Parakram, continues to play a vital role in both defense and community engagement in Jammu and Kashmir.

Lt Gen Ajay Chandpuria Inspires NCC Cadets at Ex-Servicemen Rally in Hoshiarpur

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The Vajra Corps of the Indian Army organized a significant Ex-Servicemen Rally and Weapon Display at Hoshiarpur, where Lieutenant General Ajay Chandpuria, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Vajra Corps, engaged with National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets and instructional staff from the Jalandhar Group.

The event, held under the aegis of the theme ‘Veeron Ka Samman, Desh Ka Abhiman,’ reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to its veterans while inspiring the youth to contribute to nation-building.

Lt Gen Chandpuria, who took command of Vajra Corps in July 2024, lauded the NCC cadets for their unwavering dedication to welfare initiatives, awareness drives, and their transformative anti-drug campaign.

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Addressing the cadets, he emphasized the importance of embodying discipline, values, and ethos, urging them to lead from the front in shaping a stronger, drug-free India. “NCC cadets are the vanguards of discipline and nation-building,” he remarked, inspiring them to forge a path as future leaders of the nation.

The event saw the participation of over 2,000 ex-servicemen and their families from Hoshiarpur and nearby districts, alongside NCC cadets dressed in their khaki uniforms adorned with green berets and red sashes.

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The rally featured a weapon display, showcasing the Army’s capabilities, and provided a platform for interaction between veterans, serving personnel, and the youth. Photographs from the event captured Lt Gen Chandpuria shaking hands with cadets, presenting awards, and engaging in heartfelt conversations, reflecting the Army’s commitment to both its past and future.

Vajra Corps, also known as XI Corps, is headquartered in Jalandhar and operates under the Western Command of the Indian Army. Established in 1950 to oversee formations in Punjab, the Corps draws its name and emblem—a thunderbolt weapon of Lord Indra—from the mythological symbol of sacrifice, representing the sage Dadhichi’s selfless act.

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The NCC, founded in 1948, continues to play a pivotal role in developing character, comradeship, and a secular outlook among the youth, with its cadets pledging to uphold India’s unity.

The rally not only honored the sacrifices of ex-servicemen but also highlighted the role of the NCC in fostering discipline and leadership, aligning with the broader mission of strengthening the nation.

The event concluded with a group photograph of Lt Gen Chandpuria, NCC cadets, and staff, symbolizing the unity and shared purpose of the Indian Army and its future torchbearers.

‘IAF’s Flying Relics From 70s’: Brother of Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav Criticises Use of Aging Jets After Fatal Jaguar Crash in Gujarat

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A day after Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav lost his life in a tragic Jaguar fighter jet crash near Jamnagar, Gujarat, his brother, Abhishek Yadav, took to social media to express his grief and frustration, criticising the Indian Air Force (IAF) for continuing to operate outdated aircraft. In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), he referred to the Jaguar fleet as “relics from the 70s,” questioning their continued use despite being phased out by other nations years ago.

“Lost my brother today, a void that’ll never fill. IAF’s still flying Jaguars relics from the 70s, retired everywhere else by 2007,” wrote Abhishek Yadav in his post.

The crash occurred on the night of April 2, during a routine training sortie. The Jaguar aircraft, a deep-penetration strike jet, had taken off from Jamnagar Air Force Station. It went down around 9:30 PM near Suvarda village, approximately 12 kilometers from Jamnagar city. While one of the two pilots on board managed to eject safely, Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav tragically succumbed to his injuries.

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Locals reported hearing a loud explosion followed by a plume of thick smoke. Siddharth’s body was recovered at the crash site shortly after the incident.

In a statement released on X, the Indian Air Force confirmed the crash and the launch of a Court of Inquiry to determine the exact cause. According to the IAF:

“An IAF Jaguar two-seater aircraft airborne from Jamnagar Airfield crashed during a night mission. The pilots faced a technical malfunction and initiated ejection, avoiding harm to the airfield and local population. Unfortunately, one pilot succumbed to his injuries, while the other is receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Jamnagar. IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the accident.”

The Jaguar fighter jets, inducted into the Indian Air Force in the late 1970s, have served as a key part of India’s aerial strike capability. However, their prolonged use and history of accidents have sparked frequent debates about fleet modernization and pilot safety.

This latest tragedy has reignited public scrutiny over the IAF’s continued reliance on aging platforms, with many calling for accelerated upgrades and replacement of vintage aircraft to safeguard the lives of India’s air warriors.

Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav, a native of Haryana, is remembered as a promising young officer who gave his life in service of the nation. The IAF, along with the entire country, mourns his loss.

India Lost Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav in Jaguar Fighter Jet Crash

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On the night of April 2, 2025, India suffered a tragic loss when Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav perished in a Jaguar fighter jet crash near Jamnagar, Gujarat. The incident occurred during a routine training mission, casting a somber shadow over the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the nation. Hailing from Rewari, Haryana, the young pilot’s untimely death has left his family, friends, and colleagues in deep mourning.

The Jaguar aircraft, a deep-penetration strike fighter in the IAF’s fleet, took off from Jamnagar Air Force Station for what was intended to be a standard training sortie. At approximately 9:30 PM, the jet crashed in an open field near Suvarda village, about 12 kilometers from Jamnagar city. According to reports, the aircraft caught fire upon impact, and while one pilot managed to eject safely, Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav was unable to escape the wreckage. Local villagers discovered his body at the crash site, and emergency response teams, including police and firefighters, were swiftly deployed to the scene. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud explosion followed by thick smoke rising from the area.

Flight Lieutenant Yadav, a dedicated and promising officer, had recently become engaged, adding a poignant layer of sorrow to his passing. His family in Rewari, along with the tight-knit community of the IAF, are grappling with the immense grief of losing a son, fiancé, and comrade. Social media posts from those who knew him reflect the widespread sentiment of loss, with many invoking prayers for strength to his loved ones during this difficult time.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. The IAF has ordered a court of inquiry to determine what led to the tragic incident, with preliminary reports suggesting a possible technical malfunction. The Jaguar, a mainstay of India’s air fleet since the late 1970s, has been involved in several accidents over the years, prompting ongoing efforts to upgrade its systems and ensure operational safety.

This loss underscores the inherent risks faced by the men and women of the armed forces, who put their lives on the line to protect the nation. Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav’s sacrifice serves as a stark reminder that freedom comes at a steep cost. As the nation mourns, his legacy will endure in the hearts of those he served alongside and the country he swore to defend.

IAF Pilot Lost His Life in Jaguar Fighter Jet Crash Near Jamnagar

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On the night of Wednesday, April 2, 2025, a tragic incident occurred when an Indian Air Force (IAF) Jaguar fighter jet crashed near Jamnagar Airfield in Gujarat, resulting in the loss of one pilot’s life. The two-seater aircraft, which was on a routine night training mission, went down in Suvarda village, approximately 12 kilometers from Jamnagar city, around 10 PM IST.

The IAF confirmed the crash on Thursday, April 3, stating that the aircraft encountered a technical malfunction, prompting both pilots to initiate ejection to avoid harm to the airfield and local population.

While one pilot ejected safely and is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Jamnagar, the second pilot succumbed to injuries sustained during the incident. The IAF expressed deep regret over the loss, stating, “IAF deeply regrets this loss of life and stands resolutely with the grieving family.”

Emergency response teams, including the Air Force, fire services, and local police, were swiftly deployed to the crash site, where footage showed the wreckage engulfed in flames, with debris scattered across the area.

The Jaguar, a twin-engine aircraft inducted into the IAF in the late 1970s, has been a mainstay of the force’s fleet, though this incident has reignited concerns about its aging infrastructure despite ongoing upgrades. The IAF has ordered a Court of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the technical malfunction that led to the crash.

This marks the second Jaguar crash in 2025, following an earlier incident near Ambala, Haryana, on March 7, where the pilot ejected safely.

The identity of the deceased pilot has not been officially released pending notification of the family. The incident has drawn condolences from across the nation, with many honoring the sacrifice of the fallen airman who served during a routine yet critical training operation. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.

Indian Navy Launches Fifth 25T Bollard Pull Tug ‘Ojas’ Under Make in India Initiative

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The fifth 25-tonne Bollard Pull (BP) Tug ‘Ojas’ was ceremonially launched at M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), Kolkata, marking a key milestone in the Indian Navy’s push for enhancing its auxiliary maritime capability. The launch event was graced by Commodore Sanjay Kumar, President SSB, Kolkata, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion.

The launch of ‘Ojas’ is part of a contract for six 25T BP Tugs, signed with TRSL on 12 November 2021, under the Indian Navy’s broader strategy of indigenising its shipbuilding and support capabilities. The tugs are being indigenously designed and constructed in line with Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).

Operational Utility and Capabilities

These tugs play a vital role in assisting naval ships and submarines during berthing, un-berthing, and manoeuvring in restricted harbour areas. Their robust design also enables them to provide afloat firefighting support to naval vessels either at berth or at anchorage. Additionally, they are equipped to undertake limited Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, adding to their operational versatility.

With the successful delivery of the first four tugs, the Indian Navy has already begun employing them in daily harbour operations, and the induction of ‘Ojas’ will further strengthen the Navy’s logistics and operational infrastructure at key naval bases.

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Promoting Indigenous Shipbuilding

The construction and launch of these tugs are a significant demonstration of the Government of India’s focus on ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in the defence sector. These platforms, built by an Indian shipyard using domestic expertise, highlight the growing strength of India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.

Upon completion and commissioning of all six tugs, the Indian Navy will be better equipped to handle complex port operations and emergency support tasks, ensuring smoother and safer movement of its fleet across major naval bases.

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The launch of ‘Ojas’ reflects the Navy’s continued commitment to enhancing its self-reliant maritime capabilities through sustainable, indigenous solutions.

India and U.S. Launch 4th Edition of Joint HADR Amphibious Exercise ‘Tiger TRIUMPH 2025’

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The 4th edition of the bilateral Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) amphibious exercise, Tiger TRIUMPH 2025, between India and the United States was officially inaugurated on 01 April 2025 during a ceremonial event onboard INS Jalashwa (L41). The opening ceremony marked a key milestone in the deepening of Indo-U.S. strategic maritime cooperation and reflects the growing alignment of the two nations’ interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

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Strengthening Joint Response and Interoperability

Tiger TRIUMPH (Tri-Services India-U.S. Amphibious HADR Exercise) 2025 focuses on enhancing interoperability and synergy across all domains of joint operations in the context of large-scale disaster relief and humanitarian assistance scenarios. The exercise showcases the ability of both nations to coordinate a comprehensive, integrated military response to crises in the region.

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Harbour Phase: Planning, Exchange, and Engagement

The harbour phase of the exercise is being conducted at Visakhapatnam from 01 to 07 April 2025, and includes:

  • Joint mission planning for the sea phase
  • Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE) on special operations, emergency medical response, and multi-domain operations involving air, maritime, cyber, and space domains
  • Training modules and knowledge-sharing sessions aimed at refining procedures established in earlier editions of Tiger TRIUMPH
  • Cultural engagements and sports activities to build mutual camaraderie and strengthen personal and professional bonds between the two armed forces
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Sea Phase: Amphibious Operations and Joint Relief Efforts

The sea phase is scheduled from 08 to 12 April 2025, and will feature comprehensive amphibious and HADR operations, including:

  • Execution of operations through a Joint Combined Command and Control Center
  • An amphibious landing at Kakinada, followed by establishment of a joint humanitarian relief and medical camp

Indian Participation

Key Indian platforms and personnel participating in Tiger TRIUMPH 2025 include:

  • Indian Navy:
    • INS Jalashwa (Landing Platform Dock) with landing crafts and helicopters
    • INS Mumbai (Delhi-class destroyer)
    • Magar-class amphibious assault ship
    • INS Shakti (Deepak-class fleet tanker)
    • P-8I Long-Range Maritime Reconnaissance Aircraft
    • MH-60R and Hawk aircraft
  • Indian Army:
    • Infantry Battalion Group with Mechanised Forces
    • Special Operations Forces from Army, Navy, and Air Force
  • Indian Air Force:
    • C-130 transport aircraft and Mi-17 V5 helicopters
    • Demonstration of air-portable BHISMA medical equipment
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U.S. Participation

The United States is participating with a robust Task Force that includes:

  • U.S. Navy:
    • USS Comstock (Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship)
    • USS Ralph Johnson (Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer)
    • P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft
  • U.S. Marine Corps:
    • 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit
    • 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion
  • U.S. Air Force:
    • C-130J transport aircraft
    • Subject matter experts for joint operations
  • U.S. Space Force:
    • Specialists supporting operations in space and cyber domains
  • U.S. Army:
    • Infantry and medical platoons
    • Civil-Military Operations Center
    • Multi-Domain Task Force Combined Information Effects Fusion Cell
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A Model of Strategic Cooperation

Tiger TRIUMPH 2025 reflects the evolving comprehensive global strategic partnership between India and the United States. By combining tri-service capabilities, the exercise demonstrates the ability of both militaries to respond swiftly and cohesively in humanitarian crises, natural disasters, and regional emergencies.

The joint statement issued at the opening ceremony reaffirmed the shared vision of free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific waters and the resolve of both nations to safeguard peace, stability, and humanitarian values through cooperative defence efforts.

Indian Navy Signs Project Sanction Order for Indigenous 6MW Medium Speed Marine Diesel Engine

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In a significant step towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing, a Project Sanction Order (PSO) under the ‘Make-I’ category has been signed between the Indian Navy and Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited for the design and development of a 6MW Medium Speed Marine Diesel Engine. The agreement was formalised in the presence of Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production), and Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, at South Block, New Delhi.

This critical defence-industry partnership marks a major leap forward in the Government of India’s Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiative in defence technology, aimed at reducing dependence on foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for high-capacity marine propulsion systems.

Indigenous Marine Engine Development

The project will involve the development of a prototype diesel engine with an indigenous content of over 50%, at an estimated cost of ₹270 crore, of which 70% will be funded by the Government of India. In addition to the 6MW engine, the project scope includes the detailed design development of marine diesel engines in the range of 3MW to 10MW.

Once developed, these engines will be used for main propulsion and power generation on board Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard ships, supporting operational readiness and reducing the reliance on imported propulsion technologies.

Reducing Dependency on Imports

Until now, India has depended heavily on foreign OEMs for high-capacity diesel engines, a segment critical to the operational capability of naval platforms. The signing of this project sanction order signals the beginning of a new chapter in indigenous marine engine design and manufacturing, and is expected to drive the creation of a strong defence manufacturing ecosystem within the country.

Strengthening Aatmanirbhar Bharat

The initiative is aligned with the Government’s larger vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, as championed by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, and supports the push to indigenise critical defence technologies. The project will not only conserve foreign exchange but also accelerate capacity building, boost employment opportunities, and foster a robust industrial base in the marine and defence sectors.

The Indian Navy’s proactive role in enabling such projects reflects its continued commitment to fostering strategic self-reliance and innovation within the country’s defence establishment. This development marks a key milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global hub for defence manufacturing and technology.

Lieutenant General P K Mishra Visits Rajouri to Review Security Situation, Lauds Veterans’ Role in Counter-Terrorism

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Lieutenant General P K Mishra, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps, along with the GOC of Counter Insurgency Force (Romeo), visited the Headquarters of Romeo Force in Rajouri on Wednesday to assess the prevailing security situation in the region. The visit underscores the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to maintain stability in Jammu and Kashmir amid counter-terrorism operations.

During the visit, the GOC reviewed operational preparedness and commended the troops for their professionalism in handling challenging conditions in the Rajouri sector, a critical area under the White Knight Corps’ jurisdiction. The XVI Corps, headquartered in Nagrota, oversees the Romeo Force, which operates in the Rajouri and Poonch districts as part of Operation Rakshak—a counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism mission that has been active since 1990.

A photograph shared by the White Knight Corps on X showed the GOC and other military personnel posing in front of the “Gate of Salutation” at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, a monument inaugurated in 2019 to honor Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. The memorial, located near India Gate, has become a significant site for military tributes, replacing the Amar Jawan Jyoti as the primary venue for such ceremonies.

In a statement posted on X, the White Knight Corps highlighted the GOC’s appreciation for the invaluable contributions of veterans in supporting ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. A second image shared in the post depicted a group of military personnel alongside civilians, likely veterans, in a more informal setting, reflecting the Corps’ engagement with local communities and former soldiers in the region.

The White Knight Corps continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining security in Jammu and Kashmir, working in tandem with other security forces under Operation Rakshak to ensure peace and stability. The GOC’s visit to Rajouri reaffirms the Army’s commitment to addressing security challenges while fostering collaboration with veterans and local stakeholders.