INS Kuthar, a guided missile corvette of the Indian Navy, made a significant visit to Gopalpur port in Odisha’s Ganjam district, aimed at enhancing awareness among local communities regarding coastal security and maritime operations. The ship’s two-day stopover on November 24 and 25 followed its participation in the fourth edition of the pan-India coastal defence exercise, ‘Sea Vigil-24,’ which took place on November 20 and 21.

During its visit, officers from INS Kuthar engaged in discussions with port officials, exploring berthing facilities and providing an overview of security measures in place at the port. The vessel, which measures 91 meters in length and displaces 1,400 tonnes, is notable for its speed, exceeding 25 knots, and is manned by a crew comprising 12 officers and 120 sailors. INS Kuthar is equipped with a multitude of weaponry and sensors, including surface-to-surface missiles, various guns, and shoulder-launched surface-to-air missiles, along with a chaff launcher. Additionally, it operates a Chetak helicopter, expanding its operational capabilities to include coastal and offshore patrolling, ocean surveillance, terrorism countermeasures, and anti-piracy operations.

The backdrop of INS Kuthar’s visit was the recently concluded Sea Vigil-24 exercise, designed to foster awareness among coastal communities regarding the importance of maritime security. The exercise involved the participation of various community stakeholders, including fishing communities, local residents, and students affiliated with the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and Bharat Scouts and Guides, enhancing local engagement and understanding of maritime security issues.

Sea Vigil-24 focused on evaluating the readiness and infrastructure of essential coastal assets, such as Marine Police Outposts, ports, lighthouses, and fish landing facilities. This comprehensive approach aims to fortify India’s commitment to maintaining secure and resilient coastal defenses. A major component of the exercise was the Coastal Defence and Security Readiness Evaluation (CDSRE), which saw collaboration among teams from the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, Customs, and various state agencies responsible for coastal security across six coastal districts in Odisha.

While individual coastal states and maritime security agencies conduct regular coastal security exercises, Sea Vigil stands out as a national initiative orchestrated by the Indian Navy. It provides a comprehensive assessment of India’s maritime defense and security capabilities, underscoring the nation’s strategic focus on safeguarding its extensive coastline and ensuring the preparedness of coastal security mechanisms.

The Indian Naval Sailing vessel INSV Tarini has embarked on the second leg of the Navika Sagar Parikrama-II expedition, setting off from Fremantle, Australia, on a journey to Lyttelton, New Zealand. The departure, marked by an enthusiastic crowd that gathered to cheer for the crew’s safe passage, is part of a significant dual-handed circumnavigation of the globe by two women officers of the Indian Navy.

Flagged off by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, on October 2, this expedition showcases the capabilities and resilience of women in maritime roles. The crew, comprised of Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A, made a planned stop in Fremantle on November 9 after an impressive 39-day voyage covering 4,900 nautical miles under sail.

During their time in Fremantle and nearby Perth, the officers received a warm welcome and engaged in numerous activities highlighting the Indian Navy’s commitment to gender equality and global maritime cooperation. They were honored as special invitees at the Western Australia Parliament, where they interacted with parliamentarians and participated in a parliamentary session that acknowledged their accomplishments and the journey undertaken thus far.

Prior to their departure, Tarini underwent comprehensive system checks and repairs, facilitated by a shore support team from India. Provisions for the next leg of the voyage were also stocked. The crew received an important briefing from their mentor, Cdr Abhilash Tomy (Retd), who provided insights into the upcoming passage and evaluated the vessel’s readiness for the challenges ahead.

As ambassadors of India’s maritime heritage, the crew engaged with the local Indian diaspora at a vibrant event organized by the Consul General of India in Perth. Their interactions included visits to the Royal Australian Naval Base HMAS Stirling and the Ocean Reef High School, where they shared their experiences and inspired the students about the values of resilience, innovation, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of challenges.

The next phase of the expedition will see INSV Tarini navigate across Cape Leeuwin, through the Great Australian Bight, around Tasmania, and finally towards the South Island of New Zealand, covering a distance of 3,400 nautical miles (approximately 6,300 kilometers) in an estimated 20 days. The crew is expected to encounter varied weather conditions, including frontal systems and dropping temperatures, illustrating the complexities involved in such an ambitious maritime endeavor.

Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, has returned from a significant five-day visit to Nepal, where he engaged in high-level discussions with the nation’s political and military leadership. The visit aimed to fortify defense cooperation between India and Nepal, highlighting a shared dedication to maintaining peace and security in the region.

During his stay, General Dwivedi met with key figures including Nepal’s President Ram Chandra Paudel, Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, and Defence Minister Manbir Rai. These meetings were pivotal in facilitating dialogues focused on strengthening military relations, emphasizing joint training exercises, and enhancing capability development between the two armies.

In his talks with General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Army Staff of the Nepali Army, along with other senior military officials, discussions centered on bolstering military ties in a bid to promote global peace and security. Both sides recognized the importance of cooperation in responding to contemporary security challenges faced by both nations.

To signify the camaraderie between the Indian and Nepali armies, the Indian Army presented Valour Mount horses and Sentinel dogs as gifts to the Nepali Army. This gesture symbolized goodwill and partnership, further solidifying the bond shared between the two nations.

In a notable highlight of the visit, President Paudel conferred upon General Dwivedi the Honorary Rank of General of the Nepali Army during a ceremony at Sheetal Niwas in Kathmandu. This prestigious honor is a testament to the historical and cultural connections that have long existed between the military forces of India and Nepal, signifying a commitment to ongoing collaboration in defense and security matters.

Overall, General Dwivedi’s visit is seen as a crucial step toward enhancing bilateral military relations and reinforcing the cooperative spirit between India and Nepal.

General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army, wrapped up a successful five-day visit to Nepal, highlighting the enduring historical and strategic bond between the two nations’ armed forces. His trip included participation in an Ex-Servicemen Rally, where he had the opportunity to interact with veterans and ‘Veer Naris’—the honorific term for widows of deceased soldiers, underscoring the Indian Army’s commitment to honoring those who have served.

During his visit, General Dwivedi met with several key figures in the Nepali government, including President Ram Chandra Paudel, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, and Defence Minister Manbir Rai. He also held discussions with high-ranking military officials, notably General Ashok Raj Sigdel, the Chief of Army Staff of the Nepali Army. These meetings centered around the strengthening of bilateral defense relations through joint exercises, training initiatives, and ongoing capability development.

A significant highlight of General Dwivedi’s trip was the tribute he paid at Bir Smarak, a monument dedicated to Nepal’s fallen soldiers, where he laid a wreath. His visit also featured a formal Guard of Honour at the Nepali Army Headquarters, marking the respect and esteem with which the Indian Army regards its Nepali counterpart.

In recognition of the strong camaraderie between the two nations, Nepal’s President honored General Dwivedi with the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army. This accolade symbolizes the friendly ties and mutual respect that exist between India and Nepal.

The visit also included cultural exchanges and strategic dialogues. General Dwivedi delivered a lecture at the Nepal Army Command and Staff College in Shivapuri, addressing “The Changing Character of War,” which further explored pathways to enhance military collaboration and cultural connections between the two armies.

At the Ex-Servicemen Rally held in Pokhara, General Dwivedi engaged with Gorkha veterans and their families, emphasizing India’s ongoing commitment to their welfare. He announced plans to establish two new Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) polyclinics and increase empanelled hospitals available for veterans, which was warmly received by the attendees.

In a symbolic gesture of goodwill, the Indian Army gifted several Valour Mount horses and Sentinel dogs to the Nepali Army, fostering goodwill and cooperation. Additionally, General Dwivedi extended an invitation to Nepal’s Chief of Army Staff for a visit to India, aiming to build on the positive dialogue initiated during this visit.

The comprehensive interactions during General Dwivedi’s trip reflect a mutual commitment to maintaining peace, security, and stability in the region, underlining the importance of ongoing collaboration between the Indian and Nepali forces.

Kochi, Kerala – In a remarkable display of maritime cooperation, the Indian Navy’s sail training ship, INS Tarangini, engaged in joint sailing exercises with the renowned Italian sail ship, Amerigo Vespucci, off the coast of Kochi. The exercise, conducted on November 22, emphasizes the Indian Navy’s dedication to upholding global seafaring traditions while fostering strong international partnerships, as highlighted by defense officials.

The defense spokesperson took to social media platform ‘X’ to post about the event, stating, “#INSTarangini & Italy’s Amerigo Vespucci showcased maritime camaraderie during a Joint Sail off #Kochi. Enhancing training, interoperability & friendship, this collaboration reflects a shared vision for global seafaring excellence.” This sentiment captures the essence of the exercise, which not only served to enhance practical skills but also reinforced the bonds between the two nations.

During the joint sailing, both vessels executed an array of sail maneuvers, which significantly contributed to training cooperation, increased interoperability, and the mutual sharing of best practices. Such collaborative exercises are vital in promoting a spirit of teamwork and understanding between the navies involved.

The sight of these majestic ships gracefully navigating the waters in unison conveyed a profound message of enduring friendship and the shared aspirations of the Indian and Italian navies. INS Tarangini, known for its pivotal role in the training of naval cadets, has a commendable history of participating in various goodwill missions around the world, further underscoring the Indian Navy’s commitment to international naval relations.

This joint sailing initiative not only showcases the operational capabilities of both vessels but also highlights the broader commitment to cultivating a culture of maritime excellence and cooperation among nations. The exercise exemplifies how naval forces can work together to enhance maritime security and foster a more comprehensive understanding of global seafaring practices.

Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi recently completed a five-day official visit to Nepal, aimed at bolstering the longstanding bilateral relations between the two countries. His visit, viewed as highly successful, reaffirmed the commitment of both India and Nepal to fostering peace and security in the region through enhanced defence cooperation and cultural ties. However, clarity remains elusive regarding the anticipated resumption of soldier recruitment from Nepal into the Indian Armed Forces, which has been suspended for the past four years.

Official statements following General Dwivedi’s visit highlighted that the objectives were exceeded, promoting greater mutual respect and defense collaboration. Throughout his tour, he engaged in extensive discussions with key Nepali leaders, including President Ramchandra Paudel, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, and Defence Minister Manbir Rai, as well as his counterpart, General Ashok Raj Sigdel. However, the subject of recruiting Gorkha soldiers was notably absent from official communications or media coverage, raising concerns among stakeholders.

Prime Minister Oli emphasized the importance of deepening bilateral cooperation in light of evolving geopolitical dynamics, particularly given the increasing Chinese influence in Nepal. This visit followed talks held by the Director-General of Shashtra Seema Bal with his Nepali counterpart, aimed at addressing border security and collaboration.

The recruitment freeze stems from the COVID-19 pandemic’s onset in 2020, compounded by the introduction of the Agniveer scheme in 2021, which modifies the terms of enlistment and service duration for new recruits. Nepal expressed discontent with the Agniveer framework, arguing that it contravenes the historically established tripartite agreement between India, Nepal, and Britain signed in 1947. Concerns over the re-employability of Gorkha soldiers after their four-year service term further intensified discussions around the future of military recruitment from Nepal.

During his engagements, General Dwivedi participated in a range of activities, including a briefing by the Nepali army’s Director-General of military operations, addressing military officers at the Nepali Army Command and Staff Course, and attending an ex-servicemen’s rally. In a symbol of enduring friendship, he was awarded the honorary rank of General of the Nepali army, a title traditionally reciprocated by India for the Nepali army chiefs.

Despite Gorkha recruitment’s significance to both nations and its socio-economic implications for Nepal, the absence of dialogue on this matter during high-level interactions raises questions. Approximately 32,000 Nepali soldiers are currently serving in the Indian Army, with around 15,000 Gorkha troops having retired since 2020, creating unfilled positions within operational battalions. Historical records indicate that the recruitment intake from Nepal previously fluctuated between 1,500 to 1,800 recruits annually, a number which now stands at risk due to the prolonged suspension of recruitment.

In past decades, the majority of Gorkha battalions depended on Nepal-domiciled troops, but the ratio has shifted from 90:10 at the time of Independence to 60:40 today, raising suggestions within military circles to adapt by decreasing the number of Gorkha battalions while increasing recruitment from Indian-domiciled Gorkhas.

The Indian Army’s Gorkha Brigade is a historic military formation, consisting of 39 battalions across seven infantry regiments, dating back to the early 19th century. Indo-Nepal relations remain deeply rooted in shared history, cultural ties, and military cooperation, symbolized by ongoing collaborative efforts through the Nepal-India Bilateral Consultative Group on Security Issues.

India’s support for Nepal in modernizing its military infrastructure is visible through the provision of equipment, training, and joint military exercises. Various hardware supplies, including helicopters and firearms, have enhanced the capabilities of the Nepalese armed forces, alongside a significant number of Nepali personnel undergoing training within Indian defense institutions.

In recent years, however, the solid foundation of Indo-Nepal ties faces challenges from China’s expanding influence, evidenced by military and diplomatic engagements within Nepal, as well as reports of China’s supply of military material to the Nepali army. As both nations navigate this complex geopolitical landscape, the need for dialogue and collaboration becomes increasingly vital to maintain their strategic partnership.

The Eastern Army Command organized a motorcycle rally in Kolkata as part of the lead-up to the ‘Vijay Diwas’ celebrations, which commemorate India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. This event, held in collaboration with a well-known FM radio channel, aimed to honor the valor and sacrifices of the armed forces while fostering a closer relationship between the military and the civilian community.

Leading the charge was Lieutenant General R C Tiwari, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command, who rode alongside motorcycle enthusiasts from both the armed forces and local residents. The rally was officially flagged off by Lieutenant General R C Srikanth, Chief of Staff of the Eastern Command, from Fort William, which serves as the Eastern Army Command headquarters located in the heart of Kolkata.

The motorcycle procession covered a distance of 25 kilometers, taking riders past some of Kolkata’s most iconic landmarks, including the historical Eden Gardens, the majestic Victoria Memorial, and the culturally significant Birla Mandir. The rally provided not only a thrilling experience for the participants but also a sense of unity and purpose as they traversed the city.

The event concluded at the East Gate of Fort William, where the Eastern Army Commander paid homage to the heroes who lost their lives during the 1971 war at the ‘Vijay Smarak.’ This somber ceremony drew participation from riders, including armed forces officers and notable citizens of Kolkata, who collectively offered their respects to the martyrs, highlighting the enduring respect and gratitude held for those who fought for the nation’s freedom. such community-driven initiatives reinforce the spirit of camaraderie and respect between the military and civilian populations in India.