The ongoing World Defence Show (WDS) 2024 in Riyadh has been graced by the remarkable presence of three Indian women officers, showcasing India’s commitment to leveraging the strength and capabilities of women across all domains of defence.
Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth, Colonel Ponung Doming, and Lieutenant Commander Annu Prakash, representing the Indian Armed Forces, have left an indelible mark at various seminars and events, especially those themed around International Women in Defence.
Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth, a distinguished fighter pilot from the Indian Air Force, took the spotlight as a panelist at the seminar titled ‘International Women in Defence – Investing in an Inclusive Future’, hosted by Saudi Ambassador to the United States, Princess Reema bint Bandar Al-Saud, on February 07, 2024.
Sharing her inspiring journey of breaking barriers and ascending to the skies as part of India’s revered fighter pilot club, Squadron Leader Kanth captivated the audience with her insights on leadership, resilience, and the evolving role of women in modern warfare. Her participation marked yet another milestone in her illustrious career, which includes being the first woman fighter pilot to participate in the Republic Day Parade (2021) and the Republic Day 2024 Flypast.
Colonel Ponung Doming, hailing from the Indian Army, stands as the first woman officer to command the world’s highest Border Task Force stationed above 15,000 feet in the Northern sector. With over 20 years of service and multiple firsts to her credit, Colonel Doming has been at the forefront of numerous challenging assignments, showcasing her prowess as an Engineering officer.
Lieutenant Commander Annu Prakash, representing the Indian Navy, brought her expertise in maritime security and operations to the forefront at the WDS 2024. Her presence underscored the pivotal role that women play in safeguarding India’s extensive coastline and ensuring regional stability, fostering stronger ties and collaboration between India and other nations in the maritime domain.
The participation of these three exceptional female officers at the WDS 2024 serves as a testament to the growing role of Indian women in the defence landscape.
To further inspire and engage future generations, the trio will deliver an inspirational talk about their remarkable journey at the International Indian School, Riyadh, on February 08, 2024, reaching out to approximately 600 school children from various schools.
This event aims to showcase the diverse talents and leadership skills of Indian women in uniform, motivating young minds to pursue their dreams and conquer new frontiers.
The WDS 2024, which commenced on February 04, 2024, will culminate on February 08, 2024. Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt led the Indian delegation to the show, reaffirming India’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and showcasing its defence capabilities on the global stage.
Following its decision to deny entry to a Chinese submarine and research vessel, Sri Lanka welcomed the arrival of the Indian Navy submarine INS Karanj on February 3rd, just ahead of its Independence Day celebrations.
The acceptance of INS Karanj signifies a diplomatic victory for India. However, the potential threat of Chinese submarine activities in the Indian Ocean remains a concern, particularly with Beijing’s ongoing construction of a significant naval base in Bangladesh.
The Sri Lankan Navy announced the arrival of INS Karanj, stating that while the submarine is stationed in the island nation, it will engage in a submarine awareness program, with the crew also exploring tourist attractions in the country.
INS Karanj belongs to the Kalvari-class of diesel-electric submarines, based on the French Scorpene class submarines. Designed by the French naval group DCNS and manufactured by Mazagon Dock Limited in Mumbai, the submarine measures 67.5 meters in length, accommodates a crew of 53, and is commanded by Commander Arunabh. It is scheduled to depart from the Sri Lankan port on February 5th.
This port call by the Indian submarine comes amidst Sri Lanka’s imposition of a year-long moratorium on foreign research vessels operating in its waters, which began on January 1st.
This move is viewed as a significant diplomatic and strategic success for India, considering concerns over Chinese research vessels conducting surveys in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), potentially aiding Chinese submarine navigation through crucial maritime routes.
However, geopolitical dynamics in the IOR are becoming increasingly complex, with the new Maldivian President, Mohamed Muizzu, allowing a Chinese research vessel to dock in Male, despite India’s objections.
Sri Lanka’s alignment with China has been evident since Beijing secured a 99-year lease of Hambantota Port. Concerns persist in India over the use of Sri Lankan and Maldivian ports by Chinese vessels for military purposes under the guise of marine exploration.
Meanwhile, China’s expanding presence in the Bay of Bengal through its submarine diplomacy, highlighted by the construction of the BNS Sheikh Hasina Naval Base in Bangladesh, poses challenges for India’s maritime security.
The base, capable of accommodating six submarines and eight warships, signifies China’s strategic ambitions in the region and raises concerns about its military presence close to India’s Eastern Naval Command.
India’s strategic interests in maintaining dominance in the Bay of Bengal face challenges from China’s growing maritime influence facilitated by countries like Bangladesh.
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan emphasized the importance of enhancing India’s counter-space capabilities, urging all stakeholders in the defense space sector to collaborate towards this goal. His remarks come against the backdrop of China’s rapid advancement in developing and deploying powerful anti-satellite (A-Sat) weapons.
The Indian armed forces are projected to invest over 25,000 crore rupees in the coming years to fulfill their defense space needs, including the establishment of a constellation of surveillance satellites and secure communication networks.
General Chauhan expressed that this presents a significant opportunity for the private sector to contribute and advocated for the creation of a robust and self-reliant defence space ecosystem.
He encouraged industry collaboration with the armed forces to enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities through the development of multi-sensor satellites, on-demand launch services, and a reliable network of ground stations.
Additionally, General Chauhan highlighted the importance of strengthening indigenous positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services by enhancing the NAVIC constellation.
Acknowledging the growing threat to space assets, General Chauhan stressed the need for developing counter-space capabilities as a deterrent.
He underscored the pivotal role of space in augmenting combat capabilities across traditional domains such as land, air, and sea, as well as emerging ones like cyber warfare.
China’s active development of various A-Sat weapons, including kinetic and non-kinetic systems, has raised concerns. Both General Chauhan and Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari have emphasized the urgency for India to enhance defensive and offensive capabilities in the space domain.
Despite having a small tri-service Defence Space Agency established in 2019 instead of the Aerospace Command initially demanded by the armed forces, efforts are underway to strengthen India’s space capabilities.
General Chauhan highlighted government initiatives aimed at leveraging space to bolster armed forces’ capabilities, including Mission DefSpace 2022 under the IDEX initiative.
He noted progress in addressing space-related challenges and promoting indigenous space start ups, with significant investments and growth projected in the Indian space economy. Government support, including schemes like the seed fund scheme and technology transfer initiatives, has facilitated the growth of the private space industry in India.
General Chauhan expressed confidence in the continued expansion of the Indian space economy, driven by collaboration between government and industry stakeholders.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh oversaw the commissioning of INS Sandhayak, the Indian Navy’s inaugural large survey vessel, in a ceremony at the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) base in Visakhapatnam on February 3.
During his address to the attendees, Singh emphasized the significance of the vessel in enhancing India’s stature as a powerhouse in the Indo-Pacific region.
INS Sandhayak’s primary function is to conduct comprehensive hydrographic surveys of ports, harbors, navigational routes, coastal zones, and deep seas to facilitate safe marine navigation. Singh highlighted the importance of oceanic exploration in bolstering national security and achieving strategic objectives, emphasizing the need to understand the ocean’s ecology and maritime dynamics.
Singh also discussed the security challenges posed by piracy and smuggling in the Indian Ocean, stressing India’s commitment to combating such threats and ensuring the safety of maritime trade routes. He commended the Indian Navy for its swift response to piracy incidents and its efforts in safeguarding international shipping lanes.
In his remarks, Singh reiterated India’s determination to curb illegal fishing, narcotics trafficking, and human smuggling in the region. He praised the Indian Navy’s role in promoting peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific regions, underscoring INS Sandhayak’s pivotal role in advancing these objectives.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar described the commissioning ceremony as a milestone in the Indian Navy’s Survey Vessel Large (SVL) Project, highlighting the ship’s advanced hydrographic capabilities and indigenous design. He elaborated on the vessel’s technical specifications and emphasized its contribution to maritime security and oceanic research.
INS Sandhayak, which translates to “one who carries out a special search,” symbolizes the Navy’s commitment to exploring and charting the oceans. Equipped with state-of-the-art hydrographic equipment and propelled by powerful diesel engines, the ship represents a collaborative effort between the Indian Navy and the domestic industry, including MSMEs, showcasing India’s self-reliance in naval technology.
The Interim Union Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 has allotted an unprecedented Rs 6.21 lakh crore to the Ministry of Defence (MoD). This represents a 4.72 percent increase from the previous fiscal year (FY 2023-24), indicating the nation’s commitment to bolstering its defence infrastructure while promoting self-reliance and defence exports.
One significant aspect of the budget is the allocation of Rs 1.72 lakh crore, comprising 27.67 percent of the total defence budget, for capital acquisition. This substantial funding aims to equip the armed forces with state-of-the-art technology, including fighter aircraft, ships, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and drones, in alignment with the Long Term Integrated Perspective Plan (LTIPP) to address critical capability gaps and enhance combat readiness.
The budget also outlines specific plans for modernization, such as upgrading the Su-30 fleet, acquiring advanced engines for MiG-29, and procuring transport aircraft C-295. Additionally, there is a clear emphasis on the ‘Make in India’ initiative, with funding allocated to projects like LCA MK–I IOC and FOC configuration and various Indian Navy projects, aiming to bolster the domestic defence industry and stimulate economic growth.
To enhance jointness and financial flexibility, the government has consolidated the demands of the three services into similar expenditure items, facilitating reallocation of funds based on inter-service priorities and streamlining decision-making processes.
In terms of revenue expenditure, the budget allocates Rs 92,088 crore (excluding salary), a 48 percent increase from FY 2022-23, to address the operational needs of the armed forces, underlining the government’s commitment to ensuring their preparedness. Additionally, the Defence Pension Budget has been raised to Rs 1.41 lakh crore to support approximately 32 lakh pensioners.
Border infrastructure receives a boost with an allocation of Rs 6,500 crore, marking a 30 percent increase from the previous fiscal year, aimed at strengthening strategic infrastructure along the Indo-China border. The Indian Coast Guard also sees a significant increase in funding to enhance maritime security capabilities.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) receives an enhanced budget of Rs 23,855 crore, focusing on capital expenditure to drive innovation and technological advancements in defence. This includes Rs 60 crore allocated to the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme to promote collaboration with startups, MSMEs, and academia.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting a positive and encouraging interim budget, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a confident, strong, and self-reliant India. Singh highlighted the budget’s focus on infrastructure, manufacturing, housing, and technology development as catalysts for India’s unprecedented growth.
In the coming days, the Ministry of Defence anticipates receiving a Letter of Acceptance (LoA) from the Biden administration regarding the delivery of 31 MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones to India. Sources have informed Financial Express Online that the LoA will soon be dispatched to New Delhi, initiating subsequent price negotiations.
Approval has been granted for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B drones, with 15 designated for the Indian Navy and eight each for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Army (IA). These acquisitions will be facilitated through a government-to-government arrangement with the United States, targeted for completion by March of this year.
Upon receipt of India’s Letter of Request (LoR), discussions between officials from both nations will finalize procurement details. The drones, manufactured by General Atomics, are known for their extended endurance and operational capabilities. They are expected to enhance India’s surveillance capabilities, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and within the Indian Ocean region.
While the estimated cost of the deal is anticipated to be below USD 3 billion, price negotiations will commence following the issuance of the LoA. The matter of India’s drone procurement was discussed during US Defense Secretary Lloyd J Austin’s visit to Delhi in November. Austin indicated during a media briefing that the final agreement would be announced in due course.
These high-altitude drones can remain airborne for over 35 hours and are equipped to carry four Hellfire missiles and approximately 450 kilograms of bombs.
The Indian Navy had strategically leased two MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones from General Atomics in 2020, initially for one year, to bolster maritime surveillance efforts. This lease has been extended, demonstrating the drones’ significance in enhancing India’s maritime security posture. The Indian Navy employs these drones to counter piracy attempts in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Eden.
The favorable pricing for India is attributed to the scale of the procurement and the manufacturer’s ability to recoup initial investments. However, potential integration of indigenous radar and missile systems may necessitate a reevaluation of costs, underscoring the complexities involved in such acquisitions.
Both the Indian Air Force and Army strongly support these acquisitions, emphasizing the importance of technological advancement. India seeks to achieve a technology transfer of 15-20 percent, with plans to manufacture major components domestically, including engines, radar processors, avionics, sensors, and software.
Subject to final approvals from both governments, India plans to initially procure 11 fully assembled drones, with the remainder to be assembled domestically. The MQ-9B drones, renowned for their endurance and surveillance capabilities, are poised to significantly bolster India’s monitoring capabilities across land and maritime borders.
The Indian Army published the official notification for the NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme on 08 January 2024. This scheme is specifically designed for NCC C certificate holders, both male and female candidates, who have the aspiration to join the Indian Army as officers.
Update: ONLINE APPLICATION FOR NCC SPECIAL ENTRY SCHEME-56 COURSE (OCT 2024) (MEN & WOMEN) (INCLUDING WARD OF BATTLE CASUALTIES OF ARMY PERSONNEL) IS EXTENDED UPTO 08 MAR 2024 AT 1500HRS.
Through the NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme, candidates can secure a place at the Officers Training Academy Chennai. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with all the essential details related to the NCC 56 entry of the Indian Army.
NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme Notification
The NCC C Certificate Special Entry is a short service commission entry for NCC cadets, enabling them to fulfill their dream of becoming officers in the Indian Army. The NCC Special Entry Scheme 2024 will soon be published, inviting applications from unmarried males and unmarried females (including Wards of Battle Casualties of Indian Army Personnel) for the grant of Short Service Commission.
Important Dates for NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme
Here are the important dates to keep in mind for the NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme:
NCC SPL ENTRY-56 COURSE (MEN & WOMEN) ONLINE APPLICAION FOR NCC SPECIAL ENTRY SCHEME-56 COURSE (OCT 2024) (MEN & WOMEN) (INCLUDING WARDS OF BATTLE CASUALTIES OF ARMY PERSONNEL) IS OPEN FROM 08 JAN 2024 AT 1500 HRS TO 06 FEB 2024 AT 1500 HRS.
Eligibility for NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme
To apply for the NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Nationality: A candidate must either be:
A citizen of India
A subject of Bhutan
A subject of Nepal
A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1st January 1962 with the intention of permanently settling in India
A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and the East African countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, and Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India. However, candidates falling under categories (ii), (iii), (iv), and (v) need to possess a certificate of eligibility issued by the Government of India. Candidates belonging to the Gorkha community of Nepal do not require a certificate of eligibility.
Age Limit: For National Cadet Corps (NCC) candidates (including wards of Battle Casualties), the age limit is 19 to 25 years as of 01 Jul 2024. The candidate should be born not earlier than 02 Jul 1999 and not later than 02 Jul 2005. The date of birth recorded in the Matriculation/Secondary School Examination Certificate or an equivalent certificate on the date of application submission will be considered.
Educational Qualification: Candidates should have a degree from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification with an aggregate of minimum 50% marks, taking into account the marks of all the years. Final year students are also eligible to apply, provided they have secured a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in the first two/three years of their degree course, respectively. However, selected candidates will need to secure an overall aggregate of minimum 50% marks in the degree course. Candidates must have served for a minimum of two/three years (as applicable) in Senior Division/Wing of NCC and obtained a minimum of a ‘B’ Grade in the ‘C’ Certificate Exam of NCC.
Wards of Battle Casualties: In addition to the general eligibility criteria, there are specific provisions for wards of Battle Casualties of Army Personnel. The vacancies under this category are available to unmarried sons and daughters (including legally adopted) of Battle Casualties who have been killed in action, died of wounds or injuries (other than self-inflicted), wounded or injured (other than self-inflicted), or reported missing. The educational qualification required is the same as mentioned above, and possession of an NCC ‘C’ certificate is not mandatory for wards of Battle Casualties.
How to Apply for NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme
Applications for the NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme will only be accepted online through the official website of the Join Indian Army. Follow the steps below to complete the application process:
Click on ‘Officer Entry Apply/Login’ and then click ‘Registration’ (registrations are not required if already registered on joinindianarmy.nic.in).
Fill out the online registration form after carefully reading the instructions.
After registration, click on ‘Apply Online’ under the Dashboard. This will open the ‘Officers Selection – Eligibility’ page.
Click ‘Apply’ against the Short Service Commission NCC Special Entry Course. This will open the ‘Application Form’ page.
Read the instructions carefully and fill in the required details under various segments: Personal information, Communication details, Education details, and details of previous SSB.
Save and continue after filling in each segment.
Once you have filled in all the details, review the ‘Summary of your information’ page to ensure accuracy.
Click on ‘Submit Now’ after verifying all the information. Remember to click ‘Submit Now’ each time you make changes to your application.
After the final closure of the online application, take two copies of your application with the assigned roll number after 30 minutes.
Vacancies and Salary
The NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme offers more than 50 vacancies for both men and women. Out of these, 45 vacancies are for the General Category, and 5 vacancies are reserved for Wards of Battle Casualties of Indian Army personnel. The salary/pay scale for selected candidates will be in the range of Rs. 56100/- to 177500/- (Level-10) according to the 7th Pay Commission.
The NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme provides a unique opportunity for NCC C certificate holders to join the Indian Army as officers. With the official notification set to be released soon, eligible candidates can begin preparing for the application process. Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria and follow the instructions for online application on the official website. Joining the Indian Army through the NCC 56 Special Entry Scheme is a prestigious opportunity to serve the nation and contribute to the defense forces. Take the first step towards your dream of becoming an officer in the Indian Army and embark on a rewarding and fulfilling career.
The Indian Government and the armed forces have taken significant strides towards enhancing the participation and roles of women within the defence sector. These efforts underscore a commitment to gender equality and aim to empower women across various capacities in the Armed Forces.
Below are some of the pivotal steps taken to foster a more inclusive environment for women in the military:
1. Permanent Commission for Women Officers
A landmark decision to grant Permanent Commission (PC) has been extended to Women Officers across 12 Arms & Services. This is in addition to their eligibility in the Army Medical Corps, Army Dental Corps, and Military Nursing Service.
Notably, women have also been inducted onboard warships for afloat billets and appointed as Special Naval Air Operation officers within the Indian Navy. Furthermore, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has transitioned its experimental scheme from 2015 to a permanent one in 2022, allowing Women Officers in all combat roles, marking a significant milestone in gender inclusivity.
2. Inclusion of Women Cadets in National Defence Academy (NDA)
For the first time, the NDA has opened its doors to women candidates, signaling a revolutionary change in military training and education. Since July 2022, the academy has welcomed women into its ranks, with subsequent batches commencing their training every six months.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to ensure that administrative, training, and policy frameworks are conducive to the inclusion and success of women cadets.
3. Command Appointments for Women Officers
In a move to break the glass ceiling, Women Officers are now being considered for Colonel (Select Grade) ranks and command appointments. To facilitate this transition, certain waivers have been introduced to eliminate obstacles that may hinder the career progression of women who could not complete mandatory courses during this transformative period.
4. Introduction of Women as Agniveers
Expanding the scope of opportunities for women in the armed forces, the entry of women as Agniveers has commenced across all three services. This initiative not only opens up new avenues for women’s participation in the military but also plays a crucial role in shaping a more diverse and capable defense force.
These initiatives mark a significant leap towards achieving gender parity in the Armed Forces and underscore the nation’s commitment to empowering women through equal opportunities in defense roles.
Best Indian Army Quotes: From the melodies of our childhood, we often recall the essence of poems that venerate the dignity of human values. One such poem stands out, which, upon reflection, fittingly describes the guardians of our nation: our valiant soldiers. The act of holding one’s life precariously balanced for the love of one’s motherland is a sentiment that perhaps only the fearless soldiers of our army can truly comprehend.
The Indian Army is globally recognized for its unwavering dedication, remarkable valor, and undying commitment to safeguarding the motherland. These soldiers, clad in their distinguished uniforms, are beacons of inspiration for countless individuals across the nation.
The annals of our history are filled with tales of Indian Army personnel who have rendered powerful words, symbolizing courage, sacrifice, and ardent patriotism. In this discourse, we endeavor to shed light on a compilation of such poignant Indian Army quotes that echo the indomitable spirit of our defense forces.
In truth, our nights are peaceful and our days are secure, primarily due to the selfless service these superheroes provide. While many may argue that the cinematic universe crafts heroes, it is our firm belief that the real cradle of superheroes is our defense sector.
Highlighted below are quotes that eloquently depict the valor, bravery, and honor these superheroes exude:
Indian Army Quotes in English
Outlined are some stimulating Army proverbs that can stir the soul:
“I won’t die in an accident or die of any disease. I will go down in glory.” – Major Sudhir Kumar Walia
“I regret I have but one life to give for my country.” – Prem Ramchandani
“Only the best of friends and the worst of enemies visit us.”
“Sleep peacefully at your homes. Indian Army is guarding the frontiers.”
“The enemies are only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to our last man and our last round.” – Major Somnath Sharma.
Indian Army Best Quotes
Diving deeper into these expressions of courage and patriotism, we seek inspiration and offer our profound respects to the Indian Army:
“It is God’s duty to forgive the enemies, but it’s our duty to convene a meeting between the two.”
“We live by chance, we love by choice, we kill by profession.”
“If death strikes before I prove my blood, I promise, I will kill death.” – Captain Manoj Pandey (Param Vir Chakra)
“Either I will come back after hoisting the Tricolor, or I will come back wrapped in it. But I’ll be back for sure.” – Captain Vikram Batra (Param Vir Chakra)
“Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it, it flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.”
Kitne Ghazi Aaye, Kitne Ghazi Gaye
Indian Army Motivational Quotes
These moving quotes are a testament to the sacrifices, boundless spirit, and deep-rooted patriotism of our armed forces. Their profound words embody the principles that the Indian Army stands for:
“The enemies are only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to our last man and our last round.” – Major Somnath Sharma — 4th Battalion, Kumaon Regiment
“Some goals are so worthy, it’s glorious even to fail.” – Capt Manoj Kumar Pandey — PVC 1/11 Gorkha Rifles
“We fight to win and win with a knockout because there are no runners-up in war.” — General JJ Singh
“What is a lifetime adventure for you is a daily routine for us.”
“If a death strikes before I prove my blood, I promise, I will kill death,” – Captain Manoj Pandey (Param Vir Chakra)
“You have never lived until you have almost died, and for those who choose to fight, life has a special flavor that the protected will never know.” – Captain R. Subramanium, Vir Chakra recipient.
“The enemy is only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to our last man and our last round.” – Major Somnath Sharma, Param Vir Chakra recipient.
“I wonder whether those of our political masters who have been put in charge of the defence of the country can distinguish a mortar from a motor; a gun from a howitzer; a guerrilla from a gorilla, although a great many resemble the latter.” – Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.
“No Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My gun is still working, and I will get these bastards.” – Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, Param Vir Chakra recipient.
“Bravery is not the absence of fear, but the ability to overcome it.” – General Pran Nath Thapar.
“The soldier is the army. No army is better than its soldiers. The soldier is also a citizen. In fact, the highest obligation and privilege of citizenship are that of bearing arms for one’s country.” – Field Marshal Cariappa.
“Soldiers do not fight because they hate what is in front of them. They fight because they love what is behind them.” – G.K. Chesterton.
“The enemy is not merely across the border. It is all around us, in the form of corruption, poverty, illiteracy, and communal disharmony. To fight this enemy, you need to join the Indian Army of Development.” – General Bipin Rawat, Former Chief of Army Staff.
“The Indian Army should not be looked upon as a job provider organisation”, General Bipin Rawat
Indian Army Quotes: Conclusion
The unwavering spirit of the Indian Army is encapsulated in these powerful words. These quotes serve not just as a reminder of their courage and sacrifice, but also of the immense debt of gratitude we owe to them. As citizens, it is our duty to appreciate, support, and honor their relentless efforts in ensuring our safety and upholding the values of our great nation.
The Bollywood film “Fighter,” featuring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, is currently facing legal scrutiny over a scene that depicts the actors sharing a kiss while in Indian Air Force (IAF) uniforms. Wing Commander Saumya Deep Das of the IAF has issued a legal notice to the makers of the film, as reported by India TV.
The notice emphasizes that the IAF uniform is a significant symbol representing the officers’ unwavering commitment to duty, national security, and selfless service, rather than merely an article of clothing.
Titled “Legal Notice for Defamation, Insult and Negative Impact of Indian Air Force and its Officers,” the document asserts that the film’s scene misuses the IAF uniform, a symbol of sacrifice, discipline, and dedication, for depicting a personal romantic scenario.
It argues that such portrayal not only misrepresents the dignity of the uniform but also diminishes the sacrifices of countless officers who have served the nation.
The notice further critiques the film for “normalizing inappropriate behavior in uniform,” suggesting that it sets a perilous standard that could erode the moral and ethical expectations placed on those charged with the country’s defense.
Specifically, it labels the act of kissing in uniform, especially on a runway within a technical area, as grossly inappropriate and unbecoming of an IAF officer, violating the strict discipline and decorum required in the armed forces.
