In a stunning display of discipline, precision, and martial tradition, the Sikh Regiment has been adjudged the Best Marching Contingent Judges choice award from Services this year. Their immaculate drill and resplendent uniforms have once again caught the attention of judges and spectators alike, leading to this prestigious recognition.

Competing closely was the Rajputana Rifles Regiment, which has been selected as the People’s choice award. Known for their valor and historical significance in the annals of Indian military history, the Rajputana Rifles showcased their skill with an equally impressive march.

In the category for Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Auxiliary Forces, the Delhi Police Women’s Marching Contingent and the CRPF Women’s Marching Contingent were recognized, reflecting the growing participation and recognition of women in the security forces.

The event also highlighted cultural vibrancy and diversity, with Odisha winning the Judges’ Choice and Gujarat being voted the People’s Choice in the Best Tableau amongst States/UTs category. The Ministry of Culture was awarded Best Tableau amongst Ministries/Departments, further emphasizing India’s rich cultural tapestry.

Special non-competitive prizes were awarded to the Central Public Works Department and the “Vande Bharatam” Dance Group, acknowledging their unique contributions to the event.

This ceremony not only serves as a platform to honor the best among India’s diverse regiments and departments but also as a moment of national pride, showcasing the unity and strength of the nation.

The best marching contingents and tableaux of Republic Day Parade 2023 have been announced. Separate results – one by a panel of judges and other through an online public vote conducted by MyGov – have been declared.

Three panels of judges were appointed for assessing the performance of Marching Contingents from three Services, Marching Contingents from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF)/other auxiliary forces and tableaux from various States/Union Territories and Ministries/Departments. On the basis of the assessment of the panels, the results are as under:

• Best Marching Contingent among the three services – Punjab Regiment Centre Contingent
• Best Marching Contingent among CAPF/other auxiliary forces – Crpf Marching Contingent
• Best three Tableaux (States/UTs)
• First – Uttarakhand (Manaskhand)
• Second – Maharashtra (Sade Tin Shaktipithe & Nari Shakti)
• Third – Uttar Pradesh (Ayodhya Deepotsav)
• Best Tableau (Ministries/Departments) – Ministry of Tribal Affairs (Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs))
• Special Prize
• Central Public Works Department (Biodiversity Conservation)
• ‘Vande Bharatam’ Dance Group.

In addition to the panel of judges, a web page was created on MyGov platform for online registration of citizens for watching the Republic Day Parade and Beating the Retreat Ceremony 2023 online. An online poll was conducted by MyGov for the citizens to vote for their favourite Tableaux from States/UTs and Ministries/Departments as also amongst the Marching contingents to select the best amongst popular choice category.

The online poll for the popular choice was conducted between January 25-28, 2023 on MyGov web page. The results are:

• Best Marching Contingent among the three services – INDIAN AIR FORCE MARCHING CONTINGENT
• Best Marching Contingent among CAPF/other auxiliary forces – CRPF MARCHING CONTINGENT
• Best three Tableaux (States/UTs):
• First – Gujarat (Clean-Green energy efficient Gujarat)
• Second – Uttar Pradesh (Ayodhya Deepotsava)
• Third – Maharashtra (Sade tin Shaktipeeth and Nari Shakti)
• Best Tableau (Central Ministries/Departments) – CAPF (Ministry of Home Affairs)

The Indian Army has recently implemented a new fitness policy aimed at addressing the declining physical standards among officers and combatting the rise of lifestyle diseases. This policy introduces additional tests in addition to the existing ones and requires the maintenance of an Army Physical Fitness Assessment Card (APAC) for each individual.

With a focus on uniformity in the testing process, the new guidelines aim to ensure that officers are physically fit and combat-ready. Let’s delve into the details of this new fitness policy and understand its implications.

The Need for Change: Declining Physical Standards

The Indian Army has always prided itself on maintaining high physical standards among its personnel. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in the fitness levels of officers. This decline has raised concerns about their ability to perform their duties effectively and poses a threat to national security. Lifestyle diseases, such as obesity, have become more prevalent, further exacerbating the situation. To address these issues, the Indian Army has taken proactive steps to introduce a new fitness policy.

The Key Elements of the New Fitness Policy

The new fitness policy brings significant changes to the existing testing procedure and sets clear requirements for officers to maintain physical fitness. Let’s explore the key elements of this policy.

Age-Group Specific Physical Standards

The new policy categorizes officers into different age groups, each with its own set of physical standards. This ensures that the fitness requirements are age-appropriate and realistic. Here are the physical standards for different age groups:

Age Group: 28 to 32 years

Age Group: 33 to 77 years

Age Group: 38 to 42 years

Age Group: 43 to 47 years

Age Group: 48 and above

Quarterly Tests: Battle Physical Efficiency Test (BPET) and Physical Proficiency Test (PPT)

Under the new policy, officers are required to undergo quarterly tests – the Battle Physical Efficiency Test (BPET) and the Physical Proficiency Test (PPT). These tests evaluate different aspects of physical fitness and assess an officer’s readiness for combat. The results of these tests play a crucial role in the officer’s Annual Confidential Report (ACR).

Battle Physical Efficiency Test (BPET)

The BPET consists of multiple physical activities that officers must complete within specific time limits based on their age group. Here are the elements of the BPET:

1. Five Kilometer Run: Officers must complete a five-kilometer run, testing their endurance and cardiovascular fitness.
2. 60-Meter Sprint: This test assesses an officer’s speed and agility.
3. Horizontal Rope Climb: Officers must climb a rope horizontally, demonstrating their upper body strength.
4. Vertical Rope Climb: This activity evaluates an officer’s ability to climb a rope vertically, testing their upper body and grip strength.
5. Crossing a 9-Feet Deep Channel: Officers must cross a 9-feet deep channel within a specific time limit, showcasing their physical agility and coordination.

Physical Proficiency Test (PPT)

The PPT focuses on overall physical proficiency and includes various exercises to evaluate an officer’s strength, endurance, and flexibility. The elements of the PPT are as follows:

1. 2.4 Kilometer Run: Officers must complete a 2.4-kilometer run, testing their cardiovascular endurance.
2. Five Meter Shuttle: This exercise involves quick movements between two points, evaluating an officer’s speed and agility.
3. Push-ups: Officers must perform a set number of push-ups, assessing their upper body strength.
4. Chin-ups: This activity tests an officer’s upper body strength and muscular endurance.
5. Sit-ups: Officers must complete a set number of sit-ups, evaluating their core strength and abdominal endurance.
6. 100-Meter Sprint: This test measures an officer’s speed and acceleration.

Strengthening Assessments: The Role of Brigadier Rank Officers

To ensure the effectiveness and fairness of the new fitness policy, the Indian Army has made significant changes to the assessment process. Previously, the Commanding Officer (CO) oversaw the quarterly tests. However, under the new guidelines, a Brigadier rank officer will preside over the Board of Officers for these assessments. This change brings more seniority and expertise to the evaluation process.

The quarterly tests will be led by a Brigadier, along with two Colonels and a Medical Officer (MO). This composition ensures a well-rounded assessment, considering both physical fitness and medical factors. The involvement of senior officers emphasizes the importance of maintaining high physical standards throughout the ranks.

Additional Tests and Assessments

In addition to the quarterly BPET and PPT, the new fitness policy introduces further tests and assessments to ensure continuous improvement and readiness among officers. These additional evaluations include:

Half-Yearly Speed March and Route March

To assess an officer’s stamina and endurance, a half-yearly 10 km speed march and 32 km route march have been introduced. These activities test an officer’s ability to endure long-distance marches, mirroring the challenges they may face in real combat situations.

Annual Swimming Proficiency Test

Swimming proficiency is a vital skill for officers, especially in scenarios involving water bodies. As part of the new fitness policy, an annual 50-meter swimming proficiency test is conducted where swimming facilities are available. This test ensures that officers possess the necessary swimming skills to handle water-based operations effectively.

Accountability and Tracking Progress

To monitor officers’ progress and hold them accountable, the new fitness policy mandates the maintenance of an Army Physical Fitness Assessment Card (APAC) for each individual. Officers must record their test results on the APAC, and these results must be submitted within 24 hours. This tracking system enables the Army to track individual progress and identify areas that require improvement.

Addressing Overweight Personnel: Counseling and Improvement Period

The new fitness policy recognizes the challenges posed by overweight personnel. Officers falling into the “overweight” category will receive written counseling, outlining the need for improvement. They will then be given a 30-day period to show improvement in their physical fitness. During this period, officers may face curtailment of leave and TD (Temporary Duty) courses. The aim is to encourage officers to prioritize their fitness and work towards achieving the required standards.

Consequences of Failure to Meet Fitness Standards

If an officer fails to meet the physical fitness standards even after the improvement period, punitive actions will be taken as per Army Regulation (AR) 15 and Army Act 22. These actions may include penalties and disciplinary measures, reflecting the Army’s commitment to maintaining high physical standards. The consequences serve as motivation for officers to take their physical fitness seriously and strive for constant improvement.

Appreciation for the New Fitness Policy

The introduction of the new fitness policy has been widely appreciated within the Indian Army. Senior officers have recognized the need for such guidelines to address the declining fitness standards among officers. This initiative reflects the Army’s commitment to maintaining a highly capable and physically fit force, ready to tackle any challenges that may arise.

Conclusion

The Indian Army’s new fitness policy is a significant step towards enhancing physical standards and combatting the rise of lifestyle diseases among officers. By introducing additional tests, implementing age-group specific standards, and involving senior officers in the evaluation process, the Army aims to ensure that its personnel are physically fit and combat-ready. The policy emphasizes the importance of maintaining high physical standards throughout an officer’s career. Through continuous assessments, tracking progress, and counseling, the Indian Army is committed to fostering a culture of fitness and excellence within its ranks.

In an unprecedented and inspiring move, Havildar Preeti Rajak, a distinguished trap shooter, has etched her name in history by becoming the first woman to be promoted to the rank of Subedar in the Indian Army. This landmark achievement came to fruition on a Sunday, symbolizing a monumental step forward for the Indian Army and serving as a beacon of empowerment for women across the nation.

Subedar Preeti Rajak‘s journey to this remarkable milestone commenced in December 2022 when she enlisted in the Corps of Military Police. Her entry into the army was notable, marking her as the first meritorious sportswoman in the shooting discipline to be enrolled at the rank of Havildar.

The Indian Army, in a statement, heralded this promotion as a proud moment for the military establishment and the women of India. “Today, Havildar Preeti Rajak, trap shooter, was promoted to the rank of Subedar,” the Army proclaimed, emphasizing the significance of her achievement as an extraordinary display of ‘Nari Shakti’ (women’s power).

Rajak’s promotion to Subedar is groundbreaking, making her the pioneer female Subedar in the Indian Army’s storied history. Her journey began with her joining the Army in the Corps of Military Police on December 22, 2022, as the first meritorious sportswoman in shooting to be enlisted as a Havildar.

Her prowess in trap shooting was globally recognized at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, where she clinched a silver medal in the trap women team event. This exceptional performance earned her an out-of-turn promotion to Subedar, a testament to the Army’s recognition and appreciation of meritorious service and excellence in sports.

Currently ranked sixth in India in the trap women event, Subedar Rajak is rigorously preparing at the Army Marksmanship Unit (AMU) for the upcoming Paris Olympic Games 2024. Her dedication and achievements have not only set a precedent but are also expected to inspire countless young women to pursue careers in the Indian Army and excel in professional shooting.

The Army also took this opportunity to recognize the achievements of Padma Shri and Arjuna awardee Subedar Major and Honorary Lieutenant Jitu Rai, who was promoted to Subedar Major and Honorary Captain for his meritorious service.

Subedar Preeti Rajak’s ascent to this prestigious rank is a significant milestone in the annals of the Indian Army, highlighting the evolving role of women in the military and their potential to achieve greatness in various fields, including sports. Her story is a powerful testament to the spirit of ‘Nari Shakti’ and is sure to inspire a new generation of women to break barriers and pursue their dreams with determination and courage.

In a groundbreaking moment, an all-women contingent of the Armed Forces Medical Services marched on the Kartavya Path for the first time during the Republic Day celebrations. This historic event was led by Major Srishti Khullar with Captain Amba Samant from the Army Dental Corps, Surg Lt Kanchana from the Indian Navy, and Fit Lt Dhivya Priya from the Indian Air Force, accompanied by 144 officers of the Military Nursing Service.

The contingent’s participation was a testament to the strength, discipline, and unwavering dedication of women officers in the Armed Forces Medical Services. Their roles, extending beyond borders, encompass patient care, logistics, casualty evacuation, and public health initiatives in conflict zones, both in India and abroad.

A notable highlight of their recent endeavors was Operation Dost, conducted in February 2023 by the Indian Army Medical Officers and Staff. This operation was in response to the devastating earthquake in Iskenderun, Hatay Province, Turkey, where they provided significant relief to the affected victims. The Armed Forces Medical Services operate under the motto ‘Sarve Santu Niramaya’, meaning ‘May all be free from illness’.

This year’s Republic Day was a grand spectacle of military prowess and cultural heritage at the Kartavya Path in New Delhi. French President Emmanuel Macron attended as the Chief Guest, witnessing India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar’ military strength, rich cultural diversity, and the empowerment of women in the armed forces.

The all-women Tri-Service contingent’s march was a highlight of the parade, complemented by the captivating performance of women pilots during the Indian Air Force’s fly-past. This symbolised the evolving role and strength of women in the military. The parade also featured tableaux from 16 states and nine ministries, each narrating a unique story of India’s diverse culture.

Cultural performances were a feast for the eyes, with 30 different folk dance styles, including classical and Bollywood dance forms. These performances, featuring tribal, folk, and classical dancers, painted a vibrant picture of India’s rich cultural tapestry, making this year’s Republic Day a truly memorable event.

Captain Shubham Gupta of 9 PARA SF, Indian Army, has been awarded the Sena Medal for gallantry. Captain Shubham Gupta made the ultimate sacrifice in combat with terrorists in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir, in November 2023. His bravery reminds us that freedom is not free, and some bear the cost of war.

Captain Shubham Gupta, originally from the Taj Ganj area of Agra, Uttar Pradesh, was born on October 7, 1997. The son of Basant Kumar Gupta and Pushpa Devi Gupta, he grew up with his younger brother, Rishabh Gupta. From a young age, Captain Gupta was drawn to the Armed Forces, a passion he nurtured throughout his childhood.

He completed his education at St. Georges Inter College in Agra. At the age of 17, in 2015, he joined the Indian Army through the Technical Entry Scheme (TES) after clearing a competitive exam. He graduated from the Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) in Gaya in 2018 and was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Corps of Signals, a key unit responsible for the army’s communication in both war and peace.

A true soldier by heart, Captain Gupta yearned for an adventurous life and voluntarily joined the Special Forces. He successfully passed the rigorous selection process and training, joining the prestigious 9 Para(SF), an elite unit established in 1966 that specializes in Mountain Warfare and Counter Insurgency/Terrorism operations. He was proud to be part of this distinguished force and was later stationed in Jammu & Kashmir.

In November 2023, Captain Gupta’s unit, 9 Para(SF), was operating in the Rajouri sector of the Kashmir valley as part of the ‘Romeo’ force under the XVI Corps of the Indian Army. The unit frequently engaged in counter-insurgency operations due to the militant activity in the area.

On November 22, 2023, based on intelligence, a joint operation was initiated with 63 RR and J&K Police. The team targeted the Kalakote area of Gulabgarh forest in the Rajouri district. Captain Gupta, leading troops from 9 Para(SF) and working alongside 63 RR soldiers, encountered heavy resistance from terrorists. During a fierce gunfight, Captain Gupta was fatally wounded.

The operation successfully neutralized the terrorists, but it also resulted in the loss of four other brave soldiers from 9 Para(SF) and 63 RR, including Captain MV Pranjal, Havildar Abdul Majid, Lance Naik Sanjay Bisht, and Paratrooper Sachin Laur.

At the young age of 26, Captain Shubham Gupta sacrificed his life for his country. He is survived by his father, Basant Kumar Gupta, his mother, Pushpa Gupta, and his younger brother, Rishabh Gupta.