In the ongoing multinational air exercise Ex TarangShakti-24, the Indian Air Force’s Agniveervayus are playing a pivotal role, engaging in all exercise-related tasks and significantly enhancing their operational skills.
Their active involvement is not only honing their abilities but also contributing immensely to their overall development as professionals within the force.
The Agniveervayus, who are part of a new and dynamic component of the Indian Air Force, are gaining invaluable experience by participating in this rigorous training environment.
The exercise provides them with an opportunity to apply their training in realistic scenarios, ensuring they are well-prepared for real-world challenges.
The participation of Agniveervayus in Ex TarangShakti-24 underscores the importance of practical, hands-on experience in military training and their critical role in enhancing the operational readiness of the Indian Air Force.
This exposure is expected to be instrumental in shaping them into proficient and skilled professionals, ready to serve and protect the nation with excellence.
In a heartfelt ceremony at the Cadets Training Wing, Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE) in Mhow, the parents of Captain Shubham Gupta, Sena Medal (Posthumous), proudly unveiled the GLADIATOR TROPHY, now rechristened in honor of their son.
Captain Gupta was a member of the elite 9 PARA (Special Forces) and made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation at the young age of 28.
The ceremony was marked by poignant moments as the parents, surrounded by military personnel and cadets, revealed the trophy that will bear their son’s name — a lasting tribute to his bravery and dedication.
The rechristening of the GLADIATOR TROPHY aims to continually inspire future generations of young officers and military leaders, embodying the spirit and courage of Captain Gupta.
The supreme sacrifice of Captain Shubham Gupta, who laid down his life in service to the nation, was commemorated with full military honors.
His story will serve as a beacon of valor and sacrifice, motivating cadets at MCTE to aspire to the highest ideals of service and leadership in the Indian Army.
Lt Gen Samir Gupta, Director General of Financial Planning, recently visited the prestigious School of Artillery in Devlali. During his visit, the General Officer delivered a comprehensive address to the course students and faculty, focusing on the crucial aspects of financial planning within the Indian Army.
The visit facilitated a valuable exchange of ideas on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of financial operations in the Army. Lt Gen Gupta emphasized the importance of robust financial strategies to support the Army’s operational readiness and long-term sustainability.
He also interacted with Lt Gen N.S. Sarna, the Commandant of the School of Artillery, discussing various initiatives and potential improvements in financial management practices.
This visit underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to strengthening its financial planning capabilities, which are essential for supporting its vast array of operations and strategic objectives.
Major Ignace Tirkey’s journey from a soldier to an Olympic hockey player and now an esteemed officer in the Indian Army is nothing short of inspirational.
Joining the army in 1998 as a soldier, Tirkey’s love for hockey propelled him from the regimental team to the national stage, where he would go on to represent India in the Olympics and other prestigious international tournaments.
A Journey of Grit and Determination
Ignacious “Ignace” Tirkey, born and raised in Odisha, is a name synonymous with Indian field hockey. Tirkey’s early life was shaped by his training at the Panposh Sports Hostel in Rourkela, where his talent on the hockey field caught the attention of the Indian Army.
This opportunity allowed him to hone his skills further, eventually leading him to play for the Regimental team of the Madras Engineering Group, also known as the Madras Sappers.
In February 2001, Tirkey made his debut for the Indian national hockey team at the Akbar el Yom Tournament in Cairo against Belgium. His defensive prowess as a fullback and his ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments made him an indispensable part of the team.
Representing India on the Global Stage
Tirkey’s contributions to Indian hockey are legendary. He was a part of the Indian team that competed in the Athens Olympics in 2004, where India finished seventh. His performances were not limited to the Olympics; he also played in the 2002 and 2006 Hockey World Cups, the 2002 and 2006 Asian Games, and was a key player in multiple other international tournaments.
One of his most memorable moments came in the 2003 Asia Cup final against Pakistan. With the score tied at 2-2 in the dying moments of the match, Tirkey scored a goal that would become etched in the annals of Indian hockey history. His strike between the legs of Pakistan’s ace striker Sohail Abbas gave India the lead, and they went on to secure their first gold medal in the Asia Cup with a 4-2 victory.
Tirkey’s career is dotted with such moments of brilliance, including his golden goal in the Muruguppa Gold Cup in August 2001 and his performances at the National Games in Hyderabad in December 2002.
From the Field to the Barracks
Tirkey’s transition from a celebrated athlete to a dedicated officer in the Indian Army is a testament to his character and resilience. Currently holding the rank of Major, he serves in the Madras Engineering Group (Madras Sappers corps of engineers), where he continues to contribute to the nation, this time off the field.
As an officer, he plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of soldiers and athletes, embodying the spirit of the Indian Army’s motto: #DoYouHaveItInYou.
Ignace Tirkey’s story is a shining example of what dedication, hard work, and passion can achieve. From his humble beginnings to his rise as a national sports icon and respected army officer, Major Ignace Tirkey’s life is an inspiration to all those who aspire to serve their nation, both on and off the field.
In a show of collaboration and preparedness, the Ghatak Strikers Brigade and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team from Kishangarh came together for an extensive joint training session at Phool Sagar Lake, Nasirabad.
Themed ‘United for a Safer Tomorrow,’ the exercise aimed to enhance the skills of both military and disaster response teams in critical rescue missions, first aid, and casualty evacuation.
The training was meticulously designed to simulate real-life rescue scenarios, ensuring that all participants could apply their skills effectively in crisis situations. This joint effort not only honed the operational capabilities of the teams but also reinforced their readiness to respond to emergencies swiftly and efficiently.
The rigorous session showcased the commitment of both the Ghatak Strikers Brigade and the NDRF to safeguard lives, highlighting their dedication to building a resilient response framework for future emergencies.
This partnership underscores the importance of collaboration between military and civil response teams in enhancing disaster preparedness and response strategies across the region.
Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, the Army Commander of Northern Command, recently visited forward locations of the Counter Insurgency Force (Delta) in the Doda and Kishtwar areas. His visit focused on reviewing the ongoing anti-terrorist operations, which have been intensified due to a surge in terrorist activity in these regions.
During his visit, Lt Gen Suchindra Kumar assessed the deployment options for additional forces that are being inducted into the area to bolster the current efforts. He emphasized the importance of synergy between the Indian Army, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Paramilitary Forces to effectively counter the insurgent threats.
The Army Commander exhorted all ranks to maintain a high tempo of operations. He highlighted the need for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the security and safety of the local population, especially during ongoing and upcoming public events.
This visit underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region by neutralizing threats and enhancing collaborative efforts with other security agencies. The enhanced operations aim to deter further terrorist activities and protect civilians from the impact of insurgency.
PARA SF (Special Forces) Commandos are the elite special forces of the Indian Army. They are trained to conduct covert operations, surgical strikes, and rescue missions in hostile environments. PARA SF Commandos are highly skilled soldiers, and their training and operational capabilities are considered to be among the best in the world. As a result, the salary of a PARA SF Commando is highly competitive and considered to be one of the best in the Indian Army.
The salary of a PARA SF Commando is based on several factors, including their rank, years of service, and experience. A PARA SF Commando’s salary also includes various allowances, including transport allowance, dearness allowance, field area allowance, and special forces allowance.
Para Commando Salary in Hand – How Much A Para Commando Earns?
The basic pay of a PARA SF Commando starts at around Rs. 56,100 per month for a newly commissioned officer and can go up to Rs. 2,50,000 per month for a Lieutenant General. The amount of special forces allowance is based on the level of risk and hardship involved in the operation. Special forces allowance can range from Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 30,000 per month.
PARA SF Commandos are also eligible for various other benefits, including medical facilities, leave, and pension. The Indian Army provides comprehensive medical facilities for its personnel and their families, and PARA SF Commandos are no exception. They are entitled to free medical treatment at military hospitals and can also avail of private medical facilities for themselves and their families.
Leave entitlements for PARA SF Commandos vary based on the nature of their duties and the operational requirements of the Indian Army. They are entitled to paid leave, casual leave, and sick leave, and can also avail of special leave for emergencies or family-related reasons.
Para Commando Salary
PARA SF Commandos are also entitled to a pension upon retirement. The amount of pension is based on the rank, years of service, and last drawn salary of the PARA SF Commando. The pension is also subject to periodic revisions based on the recommendations of the Pay Commission.
In conclusion, the salary of a PARA SF Commando is highly competitive and considered to be among the best in the Indian Army. Their salaries are based on several factors, including their rank, years of service, and experience, and are complemented by various allowances and benefits. However, it is important to note that PARA SF Commandos are not motivated by the salary alone. They are driven by a sense of duty, honor, and pride in serving their country and protecting its citizens.
Serving one’s nation at the highest echelons of intelligence and security is a dream cherished by many aspiring individuals across India. The Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), India’s premier foreign intelligence agency, stands as a beacon of excellence, tasked with safeguarding the country’s strategic interests on the global stage.
As you embark on the captivating journey to join the ranks of RAW, this comprehensive guide will illuminate the intricate process, the unwavering eligibility criteria, and the transformative training that shapes exceptional RAW agents.
Established in 1968 under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) has evolved into a pivotal player in India’s national security framework.
As the full form of RAW suggests, this elite intelligence agency is responsible for conducting in-depth research and analysis on matters of strategic importance, enabling the Indian government to make informed decisions and fortify the country’s defense against external threats.
Key Objectives and Functions of RAW
Monitoring Developments: RAW’s primary mandate involves closely monitoring political, military, economic, and scientific advancements in nations that could potentially impact India’s security landscape. This vigilant surveillance is crucial in preempting threats and formulating robust strategic responses.
Counter-Terrorism: The agency plays a crucial role in tracking terrorist factions, disrupting smuggling networks that funnel illicit arms, and safeguarding India’s citizens from internal and external extremist activities.
Covert Operations: RAW agents are expertly trained to execute covert operations that safeguard India’s national interests, often operating in the shadows to maintain the country’s sovereignty and security.
Throughout its storied history, RAW has been instrumental in several pivotal operations, including the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971 and the integration of Sikkim in 1975. Unlike other intelligence bodies, RAW maintains a direct reporting line to the Prime Minister, ensuring swift and confidential communication of sensitive information.
Structurally, RAW is comprised of the Office of Special Operations, Additional Secretaries, and a dedicated Aviation and Special Services division, all collaborating to fulfill the agency’s expansive mission. Despite being ranked among the top five intelligence agencies globally, RAW faces significant challenges, such as a severe staff shortage, with an estimated 40% deficit in personnel as of 2013.
 RAW agent Ravinder Kaushik
Eligibility Criteria for Joining RAW
Embarking on the esteemed journey to join RAW, India’s premier intelligence agency, necessitates meeting a stringent set of eligibility criteria. These prerequisites are designed to ensure that only the most capable and dedicated individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding our nation’s security and interests.
Nationality and Background Checks
Candidates must be unwaveringly loyal Indian citizens.
A clean legal record, free of any criminal background or pending court cases, is an absolute must.
Educational Qualifications and Language Proficiency
A graduation degree from a reputable institution is mandatory.
Proficiency in at least one foreign language is highly beneficial, reflecting the global operational reach of RAW agents.
Source of Recruitment
Candidates often emerge from esteemed positions within the Civil Services, having cleared the rigorous Civil Service Exam, including roles in the IAS, IPS, or IRS.
Recruitment also extends to meritorious individuals from the Indian armed forces, such as the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Individuals with significant experience, typically more than 20 years in service, are preferred.
Lateral deputation is another pathway, targeting the Officers Corps of Armed Forces or Group A Civil Service Officers.
While the exact age limit is not officially specified, candidates are generally expected to be between 25-45 years old.
Physical fitness is paramount, given the demanding nature of RAW operations.
Exceptional communication skills are essential for the role of a RAW agent.
How to Join RAW in India
Embarking on the path to join RAW, the Research and Analysis Wing of India, is a journey of meticulous selection and dedication. As aspiring individuals seek to understand the process, the recruitment journey is marked by a series of strategic steps.
Initial Screening through UPSC Civil Services Exam
The first crucial step in the RAW recruitment process is clearing the UPSC Civil Services Exam, which serves as the gateway for various civil services in India, including the IPS and IFS, from which RAW often recruits. Candidates must exhibit stellar performance in the UPSC Exam and adhere to the eligibility criteria to be considered for the next stage.
Recruitment from Prestigious Foundations
Direct Recruitment at the Class I executive level occurs from civil services officers who are undergoing the Foundation Course at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA). RAW agents, including most secretaries, have historically been officers from the IPS, with other posts being held by officers from the IFS and IRS.
Selection and Training
The selection process for RAW agents intensifies with interviews and psychological assessments conducted at the end of the LBSNAA Foundation Course to identify candidates with the right aptitude for intelligence work. Shortlisted candidates are then inducted to work at RAW for a one-year period, during which their performance and adaptability to the intelligence culture are evaluated.
Comprehensive Training: Shaping Exceptional RAW Agents
Joining the ranks of RAW, India’s esteemed intelligence agency, involves a meticulously structured training regimen designed to hone a wide array of skills necessary for the multifaceted role of a RAW agent. The comprehensive training process ensures that each aspirant is transformed into an intelligence professional of the highest caliber.
Basic Training Curriculum
Upon selection, trainees are initiated into the world of intelligence with a robust basic training module that spans various critical areas:
Espionage Techniques: Trainees are introduced to the art of real-world espionage, learning the nuances of clandestine operations and information gathering.
Technological Proficiency: Space technology and information security form the backbone of modern intelligence; hence, aspirants are equipped with cutting-edge scientific knowledge.
Analytical Acumen: A strong emphasis is placed on financial, economic, and geo-strategic analysis to develop the analytical prowess needed for high-stakes decision-making.
Case Studies: Learning from past successes and failures, trainees study detailed case studies of other intelligence agencies to understand the dynamics of global intelligence work.
Advanced Training: Field Intelligence Bureau (FIB)
After mastering the basics, trainees advance to the Field Intelligence Bureau training, which is an intensive 1-2 year program focusing on:
Survival Skills: Agents are trained to survive in the most hostile environments, ensuring their readiness for any situation.
Covert Operations: Mastery in secret operation management, including infiltration and exfiltration techniques, is imparted to handle sensitive missions.
Interrogation Resistance: Trainees learn to resist and manage interrogation scenarios, a critical skill for maintaining operational integrity.
Operational Execution: From contact management to mission operation, agents are equipped to execute complex intelligence tasks with precision.
Pathway to Permanent Selection
The journey from trainee to a full-fledged RAW agent is marked by a series of evaluations and choices. Candidates selected through RAS or direct recruitment at the Class 1 Executive Level undergo a year of intensive training, during which their compatibility with intelligence work is assessed.
At the end of the first year, trainees have the option to return to their parent service, allowing for a reevaluation of their commitment to RAW’s mission. Those who exhibit unwavering dedication and exceptional skill are permanently inducted into the Research and Analysis Service, ready to embark on a career filled with challenges and triumphs.
Career Path and Roles within RAW
Embarking on a career with RAW India, the full form of RAW being Research and Analysis Wing, opens up a spectrum of roles that are pivotal to the nation’s security.
The career path and roles within RAW offer a roadmap for aspiring individuals, showcasing the diverse opportunities and the immense responsibility that comes with serving in this esteemed intelligence agency.
Career Path in RAW
The journey begins with selection into an elite government job such as IAS or IPS, followed by a national aptitude test in intelligence and psychology, and an interview process.
Successful candidates are recruited through the Research and Analysis Service (RAS) cadre, part of the Central Staffing Scheme, and undergo a one-year training period to assimilate into RAW’s culture and operations.
The ranks within RAW are systematically structured, reflecting the hierarchy and responsibility levels:
Operational Roles: Senior Field Officer, Field Officer, Deputy Field Officer, Assistant Field Officer
Advancement through these ranks is contingent on performance, dedication, and the successful execution of missions.
RAW officials also receive the opportunity for international training, equipping them with global intelligence perspectives and operational techniques, which are crucial for RAW agents working in diverse geopolitical landscapes.
Roles and Responsibilities in RAW
As a RAW agent, you will be at the forefront of various critical responsibilities:
Foreign Intelligence Gathering: Collecting sensitive information from foreign lands, which is critical for shaping India’s foreign policy and strategic decisions.
Counter-Terrorism Operations: Playing a decisive role in thwarting terrorism, ensuring the safety of India’s populace and its sovereign interests.
Policy Advisory: Leveraging the intelligence gathered, RAW agents provide invaluable insights to policymakers, influencing decisions at the highest levels of government.
Nuclear Security: Securing India’s nuclear program, a task of profound national importance.
Maintaining Integrity and Performance
RAW agents are consistently evaluated for their performance, and those who excel are rewarded with progression, while those who do not meet the standards may face forced retirement.
Now that you know how to join RAW, you must also know that the integrity of a RAW agent is paramount, and any doubts regarding an agent’s loyalty or conduct can lead to termination, ensuring the agency remains uncompromised.
FAQs
What is the process to become an agent in RAW India?
To pursue a career as a RAW agent, candidates must first clear the Combined Graduate Preliminary Exam (CGPE) conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC). Subsequently, they need to qualify for the ‘Group A’ Civil Services exam under the Central Staffing Scheme and excel in all stages of the Civil Service examination.
Is it possible to join RAW without taking the UPSC exams?
Direct recruitment into RAW is not available; therefore, candidates must go through the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examination process.
Where is the headquarters of RAW located in India?
The headquarters of RAW is situated in New Delhi, which serves as the capital of India and is part of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. New Delhi is also the administrative hub for all three branches of the Government of India.
What is India’s primary secret intelligence agency?
India’s main foreign intelligence agency is the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW).
How challenging is it to work for RAW?
Working as a RAW agent is not an easy task; it demands significant hard work, dedication, and a rigorous training process.
Lt Gen Anoop Shinghal, Director General of Recruiting, recently visited an ongoing Agniveer recruitment rally in Varanasi, part of the Indian Army’s #SuryaCommand. During his visit, Lt Gen Shinghal commended the efficiency and transparency of the recruitment process, which aims to enlist young Indians into the Army under the #BharatKeAgniveer initiative.
Following his attendance at the rally, Lt Gen Shinghal also toured the 39 Gorkha Training Centre, where he observed the training facilities and infrastructure.
He praised the high standards of infrastructure development at the center, highlighting the Army’s commitment to providing top-notch training environments for its recruits.
The visit underscores the Indian Army’s efforts to ensure that the recruitment and training processes for the new Agniveers are conducted with the utmost professionalism and rigor.
The Agniveer program is a significant part of India’s defense strategy, aiming to harness the potential of its youth in strengthening national security.
Lt Gen Shinghal’s engagement at the rally and training center demonstrates the leadership’s active involvement in overseeing and supporting the foundational phases of military training and recruitment, ensuring that the forces remain robust and well-prepared.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Nashak Navtara Corps recently conducted a visit to frontline formations to review their operational preparedness. During his visit, the GOC also assessed the security situation and the response mechanisms currently in place, in collaboration with the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) of the Jammu Zone.
The visit focused on evaluating the readiness of troops and the efficiency of operational strategies to address potential security challenges along the frontlines. It aimed to ensure that the forces are well-prepared to respond to any situation that might arise in the region.
This inspection underscores the ongoing efforts of the Nashak Navtara Corps to maintain a high state of vigilance and operational readiness in critical areas. By collaborating with regional police forces, the corps aims to strengthen the overall security framework and ensure a coordinated response to threats.
The visit by the GOC, along with the ADGP, also highlights the importance of joint operations and mutual support between the Indian Army and local law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and security in the region.
