In a significant initiative aimed at empowering Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) with decisive leadership skills, the Golden Arrow Division conducted a focused ‘Right to Responsibility’ session at Ferozepur Cantonment.
The session reinforced the critical role of JCOs in modern network-centric warfare, where small-team operations and tactical decisions directly impact strategic military outcomes.
Empowering Tactical Leaders for High-Intensity Operations
The session emphasized:
JCOs’ leadership role in high-intensity combat environments, ensuring that strategic objectives are met through precise tactical execution.
Technology absorption and optimal exploitation, preparing JCOs to leverage advanced battlefield systems, communication networks, and surveillance technologies for mission success.
Decision-making in real-time battle scenarios, where adaptability, situational awareness, and leadership under pressure define operational effectiveness.
Shaping Future-Ready Military Leadership
By equipping JCOs with enhanced leadership and technological acumen, the Golden Arrow Division continues its commitment to forging decisive leaders capable of executing critical battlefield roles with precision.
The initiative underscores the Indian Army’s vision of modernizing its leadership structure, ensuring that every level of command is prepared to face evolving warfare challenges with confidence and capability.
The Shatrujeet Brigade executed a high-intensity aerial drop and precision strike exercise as part of Exercise Bull Strike 2025 at the Mahajan Field Firing Range (MFFR). The exercise aimed to rehearse and validate combat drills, showcasing the elite skills, rapid deployment capabilities, and operational readiness of the forces.
Tactical Aerial Deployment
Utilizing C-17 and C-130 aircraft, the brigade carried out a coordinated aerial insertion, deploying:
Light Field Guns (LFGs)
Machine Guns (MGs)
Mortars
Light Strike Vehicles (LSVs)
These assets were precisely delivered using the General Purpose Airdrop System (GPADS), ensuring rapid force projection into the battlefield.
Swift Execution & Target Engagement
Following the aerial drop, a specialist team executed a rapid raid on a simulated enemy hideout, demonstrating speed, coordination, and tactical proficiency. Meanwhile, Para Gunners engaged targets with pinpoint precision, reinforcing the brigade’s firepower and accuracy in combat scenarios.
Validating Combat Effectiveness
Exercise Bull Strike 2025 reinforced the Shatrujeet Brigade’s capability to conduct airborne operations, execute precision raids, and neutralize threats with high efficiency. The drill serves as a crucial validation of elite force preparedness, ensuring that troops remain battle-ready for high-intensity missions.
Major General Anurag Chhibber, Additional Director General (ADG), Land, Works & Environment (LWE), Indian Army, chaired a Panel Discussion on Land, Works & Environment at the College of Defence Management (CDM), Integrated Defence Staff (IDS).
The discussion was part of the Higher Defence Management Course (HDMC-20), aimed at providing future strategic leaders with a comprehensive understanding of LWE’s critical role in capability building and infrastructure development.
Key Takeaways from the Discussion
The session highlighted the significance of LWE in defence planning, with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) from the LWE Directorate offering detailed insights on:
Policy Challenges – Addressing key issues in land and infrastructure management.
Sustainable Land Use & Acquisition – Optimizing land allocation for defence purposes.
Shaping Policy & Defence Infrastructure Development
The panel discussion provided HDMC-20 participants with crucial perspectives on policy formulation, sustainable land utilization, and infrastructure modernization in defence. Maj Gen Anurag Chhibber emphasized the importance of efficient management of defence land and assets in enhancing operational capability and strategic preparedness.
The session reinforced the Indian Army’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure development, ensuring that future military leaders are well-equipped to manage defence resources efficiently and contribute to long-term strategic growth.
Pune, February 2025 – Lt Gen PP Rao has assumed the prestigious appointment of Director & Commandant of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune.
A distinguished alumnus of AFMC, Lt Gen Rao is an acclaimed Gastrointestinal and Liver Transplant Surgeon, bringing with him nearly four decades of exemplary service in the clinical, academic, and administrative domains of the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS).
His vast experience and contributions to military medicine and surgical excellence make him a highly regarded leader in the AFMS fraternity. Under his leadership, AFMC is poised to continue its legacy of excellence in medical education, research, and healthcare innovation.
On this significant occasion, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), along with all ranks of AFMS, extended their heartiest congratulations to Lt Gen PP Rao, wishing him success in his new role.
His appointment marks another milestone in the pursuit of excellence in military medical education and healthcare delivery.
Captain Jet Singh, Regimental Medical Officer (RMO) of Assam Rifles Training Centre & School (ARTC&S), has achieved a remarkable milestone by successfully completing MOBC Course-250 with excellence.
His outstanding performance earned him the prestigious Major Laishram Jyotin Singh, Ashok Chakra Memorial Trophy, along with a Memento and Certificate of Merit.
Capt Jet Singh’s dedication and exceptional skill set were further recognized as he was adjudged Best in Field Events, a testament to his proficiency, endurance, and tactical acumen.
His success highlights the high standards of training and discipline upheld by the Assam Rifles Training Centre & School.
The Director General, Assam Rifles, congratulated Captain Jet Singh on his superlative performance and extended his best wishes for future endeavors.
His achievement stands as an inspiration for his peers and reflects the spirit of excellence in the Assam Rifles’ medical and operational training domain.
In a historic milestone for India, Assistant Commandant Poonam Gupta is set to become the first individual to tie the knot at the prestigious Rashtrapati Bhavan. This remarkable event is scheduled for February 12, 2025, marking a significant moment not just for Gupta, but also for the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the nation as a whole. President Droupadi Murmu has personally approved this unique occasion, recognizing the exemplary service and dedication of Poonam Gupta.
The Significance of the Event
The wedding ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan is a first in the annals of independent India, reflecting the changing norms and recognition of service personnel. The venue, known for its grandeur and historical significance, will host this intimate gathering, which is expected to include close family and friends. With stringent security measures in place, the event underscores the importance of Gupta’s role within the CRPF and her contributions to national service.
President Droupadi Murmu’s decision to allow the wedding within the presidential complex speaks volumes about her commitment to honoring those who serve the nation. Gupta’s exemplary conduct and leadership, particularly as she led the all-women contingent during the 74th Republic Day Parade, caught the President’s attention. This approval not only highlights Gupta’s achievements but also serves as an inspiration to many aspiring officers.
Who is Assistant Commandant Poonam Gupta?
Poonam Gupta is a distinguished officer of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) currently serving as a Personal Security Officer (PSO) at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Her journey is marked by academic excellence and a strong commitment to public service.
Educational Background
Gupta holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, a master’s degree in English Literature, and a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) from Jiwaji University in Gwalior. Her academic achievements laid a strong foundation for her career in law enforcement. Notably, she secured the 81st rank in the UPSC CAPF exam in 2018, showcasing her determination and capability.
Service Record
Before her current posting, Gupta served in challenging environments, including Naxal-affected areas in Bihar. Her experience in these high-risk regions has not only honed her skills but also demonstrated her resilience and dedication to her duties. Gupta’s role in leading the all-women contingent during the Republic Day Parade has made her a role model for many young women aspiring to join the forces.
Social Media Presence
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Poonam Gupta actively engages with the public through social media. Her Instagram account features posts that highlight her experiences as a CRPF officer, as well as her advocacy for women’s empowerment and public awareness campaigns. This digital presence allows her to connect with a broader audience and inspire others to pursue their goals.
The Wedding Ceremony Details
The wedding ceremony will take place at the Mother Teresa Crown Complex within Rashtrapati Bhavan. This venue, known for its elegance and historical significance, will provide a fitting backdrop for Gupta’s nuptials. The event is expected to be a private affair, attended by a select group of family members and close friends.
Security Arrangements
Given the significance of the event, strict security measures will be implemented. All guests will undergo thorough screening before entering the premises, ensuring a safe and secure environment for the ceremony. The careful planning reflects the importance of the occasion and the need to maintain the integrity of the presidential residence.
The Groom: Avneesh Kumar
Poonam Gupta will marry Avneesh Kumar, also an Assistant Commandant in the CRPF, who is currently posted in Jammu and Kashmir. Their union symbolizes not only a personal milestone but also a shared commitment to serving the nation. The couple’s dedication to their roles in the CRPF exemplifies the spirit of camaraderie and service that defines the armed forces.
A Trailblazer for Women in Uniform
Poonam Gupta’s upcoming wedding at Rashtrapati Bhavan is more than just a personal celebration; it represents a broader narrative of women’s empowerment within the Indian armed forces. Her achievements serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring female officers who wish to break barriers and make their mark in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Inspiring Future Generations
Gupta’s journey from an ambitious student to a respected officer is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication. By sharing her story, she inspires young women across the country to pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face. Her wedding at such a prestigious venue reinforces the message that women can achieve greatness and be recognized for their contributions to society.
Changing Perceptions
The decision to host a wedding at Rashtrapati Bhavan challenges traditional perceptions of the venue and its use. It signifies a shift towards inclusivity and recognition of the personal lives of those who serve the nation. This event paves the way for future possibilities and opens doors for other officers to celebrate significant milestones in their lives within the confines of this historic site.
The Role of Women in the CRPF
The CRPF has made significant strides in promoting gender equality and empowering women within its ranks. Poonam Gupta’s leadership of the all-women contingent during the Republic Day Parade is a prime example of the organization’s commitment to fostering female representation in law enforcement.
Training and Opportunities
The CRPF offers various training programs and opportunities for women to excel in their careers. These initiatives aim to equip female officers with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in challenging environments. By providing a supportive framework, the CRPF encourages women to take on leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to the force.
Breaking Stereotypes
Poonam Gupta’s achievements challenge stereotypes associated with women in uniform. Her success story serves as a powerful reminder that women can excel in any field, including law enforcement. By breaking down barriers and defying expectations, Gupta and her peers are reshaping the narrative surrounding women in the armed forces.
In today’s digital age, social media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and fostering connections. Poonam Gupta’s active presence on platforms like Instagram allows her to share her experiences and advocate for important causes.
Raising Awareness
Through her posts, Gupta raises awareness about women’s empowerment, education, and public health issues. By leveraging her platform, she not only highlights her work but also encourages others to engage in meaningful conversations about social issues affecting the community.
Building a Community
Gupta’s online presence has fostered a sense of community among her followers. By sharing her journey, she connects with individuals who share similar aspirations and challenges. This sense of belonging can be empowering, motivating others to pursue their goals and advocate for positive change.
Assistant Commandant Poonam Gupta’s upcoming wedding at Rashtrapati Bhavan is a momentous occasion that transcends personal celebration. It represents a significant step towards recognizing the contributions of women in the armed forces and challenging traditional norms. As Gupta embarks on this new chapter in her life, she continues to inspire countless individuals to pursue their dreams and serve their nation with pride.
Through her achievements, Poonam Gupta stands as a beacon of hope for aspiring female officers, proving that dedication, resilience, and service can lead to remarkable milestones. As the first person to be married at Rashtrapati Bhavan, her story will undoubtedly resonate for generations to come, leaving an indelible mark on the history of India’s armed forces.
Colonel Rahul Aggarwal, Commandant RIMC interacting with Cadets
Upholding its rich tradition of excellence and leadership development, the Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun, has once again showcased its dominance in grooming future military officers. In yet another stellar achievement, 24 RIMC cadets have successfully cleared the Services Selection Board (SSB) interviews following the NDA/NA Examination II 2024, reaffirming the institution’s unparalleled training standards.
A Remarkable Feat Amidst Intense Competition
With over 9 lakh aspirants appearing for the NDA/NA written examination and only around 400 candidates ultimately securing admission to the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA), the success rate at RIMC is a testament to its rigorous training, structured mentorship, and focus on holistic personality development.
The five-year grooming process at RIMC equips cadets with leadership qualities, discipline, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to service, enabling them to consistently outperform thousands of competitors in one of the toughest selection processes in the country.
Guidance Under Visionary Leadership
This exceptional accomplishment is credited to the visionary leadership of the Commandant, Colonel Rahul Agarwal, and his dedicated team of mentors and faculty. Their unwavering commitment to excellence has been instrumental in preparing cadets for the rigorous demands of the SSB interview, ensuring they exhibit mental resilience, confidence, and leadership acumen.
SSB – A True Test of Future Military Leaders
The SSB interview process, known for its rigorous assessment of a candidate’s intelligence, psychological aptitude, physical fitness, and leadership potential, has an acceptance rate of less than 0.05%. It demands:
Exceptional problem-solving skills
Strong communication and teamwork abilities
Demonstrated leadership qualities under pressure
RIMC’s comprehensive training curriculum ensures cadets are well-prepared in all aspects, giving them a distinct edge over others during the selection process.
A Legacy of Success and Inspiration
The remarkable success of these 24 RIMC cadets is a proud moment for the institution and a source of inspiration for countless young aspirants across the nation.
With this continued excellence, RIMC remains a beacon of military education, shaping future officers who will lead the Indian Armed Forces with courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the nation.
Lieutenant General Sandeep Thareja, SM, VSM, relinquished command of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, after a transformative tenure marked by significant advancements in training, research, and infrastructure development. Despite a brief six-month command, his leadership propelled AFMC into a new era of medical excellence and innovation.
Pioneering Transformations at AFMC
Under Lt Gen Thareja’s leadership, AFMC witnessed a major transformation, with the establishment of modern facilities for cadets and staff, alongside cutting-edge advancements in training and research. Key initiatives during his tenure included:
DIAMOnDS Lab – Pioneering Next-Gen Sequencing for Oncology, revolutionizing cancer research and diagnostics.
SMART Classroom for PG Training – Enhancing postgraduate education through interactive, technology-driven learning.
Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR)-Based Training & 3D Modeling – Bringing state-of-the-art simulation-based medical training to cadets.
Health Technology Assessment Center – Facilitating policy development and medical research for advancing military healthcare systems.
New Role as DGMS (Air)
With his distinguished expertise and leadership, Lt Gen Sandeep Thareja now moves on secondment to the Indian Air Force, assuming the role of Director General Medical Services (Air) with the rank of Air Marshal. His vast experience in medical education, research, and healthcare policy is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing the medical capabilities of the IAF.
His tenure at AFMC has left an enduring impact, positioning the institution at the forefront of military medical innovation and excellence.
The Army Dental Corps marked its 84th Raising Day with grandeur and pride at the Command Military Dental Centre (SWC). The event was graced by Lieutenant General H.S. Vandra, Chief of Staff, Sapta Shakti Command, who commended the team’s unwavering commitment to providing high-quality oral healthcare to the Armed Forces.
Honoring Excellence in Military Healthcare
The Army Dental Corps, with its motto “Reach the Soldier,” has been at the forefront of delivering specialized dental care to personnel across remote locations, operational zones, and peacetime military establishments. Over the years, the corps has played a vital role in maintaining the dental and overall health of the Armed Forces, ensuring combat readiness through proactive healthcare services.
Commitment to Innovation and Excellence
Recognizing the evolving needs of modern military healthcare, the Army Dental Corps continues to integrate advanced dental technology, research, and training programs to enhance service quality. Lt Gen H.S. Vandra applauded the corps for its dedication, professionalism, and contribution to the well-being of soldiers.
The 84th Raising Day celebrations were a tribute to the legacy of service, innovation, and excellence, reinforcing the Army Dental Corps’ indispensable role in supporting the Armed Forces.
New Delhi: Indian Army's Garhwal Rifles contingent marches past during a rehearsal for the Republic Day Parade 2025, in New Delhi, Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025. (PTI Photo/Manvender Vashist Lav) (PTI01_21_2025_000202A)
The Indian Defence Budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 has been set at ₹6,81,210 crore, reflecting a 9.53% year-on-year increase. This budget constitutes 13.45% of the total Union Budget, making it the highest allocation among all ministries. However, the capital allocation for new procurements saw only a marginal increase of 4.65%, raising concerns about the pace of modernization amidst inflation and currency fluctuations.
Breakdown of Defence Budget 2025-26
Category
Allocation (₹ in crore)
Revenue Expenditure
3,11,732.30
Capital Expenditure
1,80,000
Defence Pensions
1,60,000
Civil Expenditure
28,682.97
Key Highlights of the Defence Budget 2025
1. Modernization and Capital Expenditure
₹1.8 lakh crore has been earmarked for capital expenditure, of which ₹1,48,722.80 crore will be spent on capital acquisition and modernization of the armed forces.
₹31,277.20 crore will be utilized for Research & Development (R&D) and infrastructure development.
The government has allocated ₹1.12 lakh crore for procurement from domestic industries, in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative.
2. Delayed Defence Procurement and Upcoming Deals
Despite increased allocations, ₹12,500 crore is expected to be returned from the previous year’s estimates, highlighting the slow pace of defence procurement. However, a few major deals are anticipated before the end of the fiscal year:
26 Rafale-M fighter jets for aircraft carriers and three Scorpene-class submarines, with an estimated cost of $10 billion.
307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) for the Army, worth approximately ₹8,000 crore.
3. Major Boost for Indian Coast Guard (ICG)
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) received a 26.5% increase in total allocation and a significant 43% rise in capital budget, aimed at strengthening coastal security and emergency response capabilities.
The capital budget increase from ₹3,500 crore to ₹5,000 crore will support the acquisition of:
Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH)
Dornier aircraft
Fast Patrol Vessels
Training ships and interceptor boats
4. Defence Pensions and Welfare Measures
Defence pensions saw a 13.87% hike, reaching ₹1.6 lakh crore, ensuring financial stability for ex-servicemen and their families.
The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) was allocated ₹8,317 crore, marking a 19.38% increase from the previous year.
The One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme, implemented since July 2014 and revised every five years, saw its third revision in July 2024.
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) received ₹7,146 crore in capital allocation, up 9.74% from 2024-25. The funds will support strategic infrastructure projects, including:
LGG-Damteng-Yangtse (Arunachal Pradesh)
Asha-Cheema-Anita (Jammu & Kashmir)
Birdhwal-Puggal-Bajju (Rajasthan)
BRO has also employed 70,000 local youths, contributing to regional economic development.
Conclusion
While the Indian Defence Budget 2025 shows an overall increase, the marginal hike in capital allocations raises concerns about the slow pace of modernization. The significant boost in defence pensions, ICG expansion, and border infrastructure development indicates the government’s focus on security and welfare. However, addressing delays in procurement and ensuring efficient fund utilization will be crucial for maintaining India’s military preparedness and strategic dominance.
With major deals in the pipeline and a push for domestic defence manufacturing, the budget aligns with India’s long-term defence and security objectives, though challenges remain in execution and timely implementation.
