The Uttarakhand government has taken a significant step towards fostering patriotism and awareness about India’s military heritage by incorporating the Indian Military Academy (IMA) into the school curriculum. The IMA, located in Dehradun, is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious military training institutes.

This decision is part of the newly drafted State Curriculum Framework (SCF) prepared by the State Council of Research and Training (SCERT). The draft makes it mandatory for government schools to include the study of IMA in their syllabus. The recommendation, once approved by the state government, will be implemented in schools across Uttarakhand.

Promoting Patriotism and Respect for the Military

According to the SCF draft, learning about the IMA will instill a sense of patriotism among students and provide insights into the evolution of modern military training in India. The curriculum aims to foster respect for the Indian military, its traditions, and the valor and sacrifices of its officers at an early stage in students’ lives.

Encouraging Educational Visits to Prestigious Institutes

The SCF also recommends organizing school visits to the IMA and other renowned scientific and research institutions in Uttarakhand. These include the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) in Nainital, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in Dehradun, the Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), the Forest Research Institute (FRI), and IIT Roorkee, among others. Such initiatives aim to expose students to cutting-edge research and inspire them to pursue careers in science, technology, and defence.

Expanding Education Scope in Government Schools

This initiative follows another major reform by SCERT, which increased the number of subjects in the 10th-grade curriculum of Uttarakhand State Education Board (USEB) schools from five to ten. The SCF underscores the importance of a well-rounded education by integrating topics that highlight the contributions of Indian scientists and researchers from Uttarakhand, along with military education.

Enhancing Quality Education

The SCF emphasizes leveraging Uttarakhand’s rich resources, including its prestigious institutions and historical significance, to deliver quality education. By including the IMA and other research institutes in the syllabus, the framework aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of India’s scientific, cultural, and military achievements.

This progressive move by the Uttarakhand government is expected to enrich the educational experience for students while nurturing a sense of pride in the nation’s heritage and achievements.

In a heartfelt event, General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, officially launched the book ‘Drills, Thrills, and Spills: An Army Wife’s Tales’, authored by Mrs. Jyoti Barmola Mamgain. Mrs. Mamgain, an Army wife and accomplished professional event manager, has previously been honored with the prestigious AWWA Award of Excellence for her contributions.

The book is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of Army wives, illustrating how they transform adversities into adventures and limitations into opportunities while accompanying their spouses through the unique challenges of life in the Indian Armed Forces.

Through her engaging anecdotes, Mrs. Mamgain highlights the resilience, adaptability, and camaraderie that define the lives of these women, shedding light on an often-overlooked aspect of military life.

The event marked not only the release of a significant literary work but also celebrated the strength and sacrifices of the women who play a vital role in the Armed Forces’ ecosystem.

Mrs. Mamgain’s writing serves as an inspiration, offering readers a glimpse into the dynamic world of Army families and their incredible ability to thrive under ever-changing circumstances.

In a significant cultural exchange within the Indian military community, Mrs. Jyoti Barmola Mamgain presented her book titled ‘Drills, Thrills and Spills – An Army Wife’s Tales’ to General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), on January 17, 2025. The ceremony was marked by a formal presentation where Mrs. Mamgain handed over the book to General Dwivedi, symbolizing the deep respect for the traditions and values that underpin the Indian Army’s ethos.

The book, which delves into the unique experiences and challenges faced by army wives, was praised for its portrayal of the strong moral values and distinctive traditions that are integral to the life within the Indian military. It brings to light the often-overlooked contributions and sacrifices of these women, whose resilience and grace have been described as the silent strength that supports the force.

General Upendra Dwivedi, who has been at the forefront of modernizing the Indian Army with a focus on indigenous equipment and enhancing technological capabilities, received the book in a gesture that underscores the importance of cultural and personal narratives in the military’s fabric. His tenure as COAS has been marked by efforts to integrate critical and emerging technologies like big data analytics and artificial intelligence into military operations, reflecting a blend of tradition with innovation, much like the themes explored in Mrs. Mamgain’s work.

The event was not just a simple book presentation but a celebration of the Indian Army’s rich tapestry of life, traditions, and the indomitable spirit of army wives. The presence of senior military officials and the symbolic exchange highlighted the Army’s commitment to recognizing and honoring the contributions of all its members, including the families that support them.

This presentation also comes at a time when the Indian Army continues to evolve, with recent developments showcasing its strategic importance in regional and international contexts. General Dwivedi’s leadership has been pivotal in navigating these changes, ensuring the Army remains robust, technologically advanced, and deeply rooted in its cultural ethos.

The book ‘Drills, Thrills and Spills – An Army Wife’s Tales’ is now expected to become a cherished addition to military literature, offering insights into the personal lives that sustain the professional dedication of the Indian Army’s personnel.

In a demonstration of their commitment to service beyond self, the Indian Army has significantly ramped up its medical support infrastructure for the pilgrims attending the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj. This initiative, in collaboration with the civil health setup, aims to ensure the well-being of the massive influx of devotees expected at this world-renowned religious congregation.

The Mahakumbh Mela, taking place from January 13th to February 26th, 2025, is not just a spiritual gathering but the largest public event globally, attracting ascetics, saints, sadhus, and pilgrims from across the globe. Recognizing the importance of health and safety during this event, the Indian Army has established multi-tier Medical Aid Posts along the river banks to provide quick and accessible medical cover.

A key feature of this medical support system is a 20-bed Section Hospital with an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at OD Fort, specifically designed for trauma care and critical medical support. This facility ensures that any medical emergencies during the Mahakumbh can be addressed promptly and efficiently.

Additionally, the Military Hospital in Prayagraj has been upgraded, now boasting 50 dedicated beds for civilian pilgrims along with enhanced laboratory facilities to handle any health emergencies that might arise during the event.

The Army’s role extends beyond just providing beds and facilities. Specialist doctors from the Army will assist the civil administration in managing infectious diseases, ensuring robust health management and control during the congregation.

A 24×7 mobile evacuation team, stationed at OD Fort, is equipped with five beds, including two with ventilators, ready to provide immediate assistance to pilgrims in critical need.

This level of preparation reflects the Indian Army’s dedication to the principle of ‘Service Before Self’, ensuring that pilgrims have a safe, healthy, and memorable experience during the Mahakumbh 2025.

The comprehensive medical setup underscores the collaborative efforts between military and civilian sectors to facilitate a successful and secure pilgrimage for all attendees.

General Deepak Kapoor (Retd), the former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Honorary Colonel Commandant of the Regiment of Artillery, made a poignant visit to the Artillery Centre in Nashik today. During his visit, General Kapoor laid a wreath at the War Memorial, paying solemn tribute to the brave-hearts who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation.

The visit, which took place at 14:35 UTC, was marked by interactions with the Agniveers, young officers, and staff at the Centre, where he shared his vast insights and experiences from his illustrious career. General Kapoor’s engagement with the younger generation of military personnel underscores the importance of mentorship and the transfer of knowledge within the armed forces.

In addition to his tribute at the War Memorial, General Kapoor also explored the Kumaramangalam Artillery Museum at the Centre. This visit allowed him to reflect on the rich legacy of the Regiment of Artillery, showcasing the evolution and historical significance of artillery in military operations. The museum, located in Nashik, is a repository of the regiment’s contributions and heritage.

This visit not only highlights the ongoing relationship between retired military leaders and active service personnel but also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers, reinforcing the values of honor, duty, and remembrance within the Indian Army.

In a demonstration of enhanced military cooperation, the Indian Army’s Mahar Regiment and the Indian Navy’s INS Kolkata engaged in a dynamic Inter-Service Affiliation Training exercise from January 12 to January 15, 2025, at the Mahar Regiment Centre. This joint venture was aimed at bolstering tactical coordination, combat readiness, and fostering knowledge sharing between the two branches of the Indian Armed Forces.

The training not only focused on improving operational strategies but also reinforced the spirit of jointness among the forces, ensuring a formidable and battle-ready military committed to safeguarding India’s sovereignty. The exercise included various activities that were designed to enhance mutual trust, strengthen joint operational strategies, and underline the commitment to a unified defense approach.

The Mahar Regiment, one of the most decorated infantry regiments of the Indian Army, has a long history of valor and is known for its contributions to various military campaigns. INS Kolkata, on the other hand, is an indigenously built guided-missile stealth destroyer, symbolizing the Indian Navy’s technological prowess and operational capabilities. The affiliation between INS Kolkata and the Mahar Regiment, formalized on May 25, 2022, was further solidified through this training, showcasing a seamless display of Army-Navy synergy.

This event is part of a broader tradition of inter-service exercises where different branches of the Indian military come together to share best practices, enhance interoperability, and prepare for real-world scenarios. Such collaborations are crucial in the modern military context where joint operations are increasingly common, ensuring that the armed forces are well-coordinated and capable of responding to threats with agility and precision.

The exercise has been lauded by military officials and observers as a significant step towards maintaining India’s defence readiness and operational excellence. It underscores the importance of inter-service training in today’s strategic environment, where the integration of different military capabilities is vital for national security.

In a significant development for the Indian Armed Forces, Lt Gen JS Sidana, Director General of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (DGEME), met with Lt Gen RC Tiwari, the newly appointed Eastern Army Commander, on January 17, 2025. The meeting, highlighted by a post from the Eastern Command, focused on various aspects related to new generation equipment and the implications of emerging technology within the Indian military framework.

Lt Gen Sidana, known for his expertise in military engineering, engaged in discussions that are crucial for the modernization of the Indian Army, particularly in the Eastern Command’s jurisdiction. This interaction comes at a time when the Indian Army is undergoing significant reforms, aiming to make promotions to higher ranks like Lt Gen merit-based, as reported by ThePrint on January 9, 2025. This shift towards meritocracy is intended to ensure that the most capable officers lead the forces, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of military operations.

The meeting was not only about personnel changes but also spotlighted the integration of advanced technology into military strategy. The Indian Army’s focus on technological advancement aligns with national initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, aimed at reducing dependence on foreign military hardware and fostering indigenous defense production capabilities. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to achieve self-reliance in the defense sector, as discussed in various reports, including those from Carnegie India and CENJOWS.

Lt Gen Tiwari, who succeeded Lt Gen RP Kalita in his role as the Eastern Army Commander, brings fresh perspectives to the command’s operations, which span from the high altitudes of the Himalayas to the dense rainforests of Northeast India. His leadership is crucial at a time when the Eastern Command is actively seeking robust drones and counter-drone systems, as mentioned in a ProKerala article from November 5, 2024. The command’s geographical diversity requires specialized equipment that can operate under extreme conditions, highlighting the importance of the discussions held with Lt Gen Sidana.

This meeting signifies a step forward in the Indian Army’s journey towards technological integration and operational excellence, ensuring that the forces are well-equipped to meet contemporary security challenges while fostering innovation through domestic defence production.