In a significant development, Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC), recently visited the Army Service Corps (ASC) Centre and College in Bangalore. During his visit, Lt Gen Singh reviewed the state-of-the-art training facilities that are part of this prestigious institution.
The General Officer expressed his appreciation for the modern facilities and the innovative research and development projects being carried out at the centre. He commended the efforts of the ASC Centre & College in its progress towards becoming a Centre of Expertise for all matters related to Supplies and Transport.
The Army Public School, located within the ASC Centre & College, is renowned for its holistic approach to education. Known for its academic excellence, the school follows the CBSE curriculum and places a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, sports, and the arts, fostering an environment that promotes well-rounded development. The school’s ethos, which is deeply rooted in values of truth, integrity, and ethical principles, is encapsulated in its motto “Truth Is God.”
The institution strives to nurture responsible and compassionate individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact on society. With facilities that include well-equipped classrooms, advanced laboratories, a comprehensive library, and extensive sports facilities, Army Public School offers a conducive environment for both academic and personal growth. The school also encourages participation in co-curricular activities to enhance continuous learning, teamwork, leadership skills, and real-life experiences of success and failure.
Overall, the Army Public School ASC Centre & College stands as a beacon of academic excellence, where education goes beyond the textbooks to integrate cultural values with innovative and practical approaches to learning, aiming to shape the future leaders of tomorrow.
In a recent visit to the frontline units along the Line of Control in the Poonch Sector, Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, accompanied by the Commander of the White Knight Corps, conducted a thorough review of the security situation.
The visit underscores the ongoing commitment of the Indian Army to safeguard the border regions.
During his tour, Lt. Gen. MV Suchindra Kumar praised the troops for their professionalism and resilience under challenging conditions. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a high state of morale and motivation among the soldiers, essential for the security and stability of the area.
The Army Commander’s visit and his commendations highlight the unwavering dedication of the Indian Army to the principle of ‘Nation First.’ The visit also serves as a reassurance of the robust security measures in place to handle any adversities in the region.
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) commemorated its 65th Raising Day on May 7th, 2024, with a grand event held in New Delhi.
Presided over by Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, the ceremony served as a tribute to the organization’s unwavering dedication and commitment to nation-building, particularly in inhospitable terrains and challenging weather conditions.
Addressing the gathering, Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane applauded the BRO for its indispensable role in enhancing border infrastructure and ensuring the security and socio-economic progress of remote areas.
He hailed the organization’s track record of completing projects in a timely manner and urged for the infusion of latest technology and techniques to expedite project completion while reducing human efforts.
The Defence Secretary also lauded the BRO’s invaluable contribution to relief and rescue efforts during critical incidents such as the Silkyara Tunnel Collapse and the Sikkim Floods.
He emphasized the organization’s pivotal role in the Vibrant Villages Programme, aimed at comprehensive development of select border villages, underscoring its multifaceted role beyond infrastructure development.
Director General of Border Roads, Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, extended warm greetings to all ranks of the BRO, highlighting the organization’s pan-India presence and its profound impact on national security, connectivity, and development.
He emphasized the significance of the organization’s tagline, “In the Silence of Our Great Mountains – Work Speaks,” which epitomizes its dedication and perseverance in serving the nation.
As part of the event, a compendium on the Sela Tunnel and several books were unveiled by the Defence Secretary, showcasing the organization’s achievements and contributions.
Excellence Awards were presented to BRO personnel for their outstanding performance in the year 2023-24, with special recognition accorded to women achievers and casual paid laborers who contributed significantly to various projects.
Since its inception with just two projects in 1960, the BRO has evolved into a dynamic organization with 18 projects operating in 11 states and three union territories.
It has established itself as a premier infrastructure construction agency, undertaking projects in high-altitude and snow-bound areas critical for national security.
In the fiscal year 2023-24, the BRO completed a total of 125 infrastructure projects worth Rs 3,611 crore, including the construction of the Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh.
The organization aims to commence construction on the Shinkun La Tunnel, which, upon completion, will become the world’s highest tunnel at 15,800 ft, surpassing China’s Mila Tunnel.
The BRO’s commitment to gender equality and inclusivity was also highlighted, with women officers such as Col Ponung Doming leading critical projects in Eastern Ladakh and Assistant Executive Engineer Smt Nikita Chaudhary playing a pivotal role in the successful completion of the Sela Tunnel Project.
With an exponential surge in budget expenditure and increased support from the government, the BRO is poised to undertake crucial projects, accelerate infrastructure development, and enhance its operational readiness, reaffirming its dedication to serving the nation with excellence and integrity.
A delegation comprising 21 members from the prestigious Royal College of Defence Studies (RCDS) in the United Kingdom, led by Lieutenant General Sir George Norton (Retd.), Commandant of RCDS, embarked on a visit to the National Defence College (NDC) in New Delhi today.
The visit, aimed at fostering greater defence interaction at the senior military leadership level, served as a platform for understanding emerging challenges and deliberating on defence-related issues affecting both the UK and India.
The RCDS delegation engaged in extensive interactions with the Commandant, faculty, staff, and participants of the 64th NDC course, reflecting a commitment to deepening bilateral defence cooperation and mutual understanding.
The visit of the RCDS delegation to the National Defence College underscored the significance of high-level engagements in strengthening strategic partnerships and promoting dialogue on issues of mutual interest.
Lieutenant General Sir George Norton (Retd.), along with his team, expressed keen interest in gaining insights into India’s strategic perspectives, security challenges, and evolving defence policies.
The delegation sought to leverage the expertise and experience of the National Defence College in addressing common defence and security concerns, thereby fostering closer ties between the defence establishments of the UK and India.
During the interactions, the RCDS delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with the Commandant, faculty, and staff of the National Defence College, exchanging views on a wide range of topics including geopolitical developments, regional security dynamics, counter-terrorism strategies, and military modernization efforts.
The exchange of ideas and experiences facilitated a deeper understanding of each other’s defence doctrines, operational concepts, and institutional frameworks, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and collaboration in addressing shared challenges.
The delegation also had the opportunity to engage with the participants of the 64th NDC course, comprising senior military officers and civilian officials from India and friendly foreign countries.
The interaction provided a valuable platform for exchanging perspectives, sharing best practices, and building networks among future leaders and decision-makers in the defence and security domain.
Through such engagements, the RCDS delegation aimed to strengthen people-to-people ties and promote greater synergy and cooperation between the defence establishments of the UK and India.
Speaking on the occasion, Lieutenant General Sir George Norton (Retd.) emphasized the importance of robust defence interaction and collaboration in addressing complex security challenges facing the international community.
He commended the National Defence College for its role in fostering strategic thinking and professional development among military and civilian leaders, and expressed confidence in the prospects for deepening defence cooperation between the UK and India.
In response, the Commandant of the National Defence College reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral defence ties with the UK and welcomed the delegation’s visit as a testament to the growing partnership between the two countries.
He highlighted the significance of such exchanges in promoting mutual understanding, trust, and cooperation, and expressed hope for further engagements in the future.
The visit of the Royal College of Defence Studies delegation to the National Defence College marks a significant step forward in advancing defence cooperation and strategic dialogue between the UK and India. Through constructive engagement and collaboration, both countries are poised to address emerging security challenges and contribute to regional and global peace and stability.
In a concerted effort to redefine and modernize Professional Military Education (PME) for future leaders of the Indian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Vipul Shingal, Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Doctrine, Organization, and Training) at Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (DCIDS DOT HQ IDS), presided over the 6th Conclave of Commandants of Indian Armed Forces Training Institutions (AFTI) and War Colleges, held at the Military Institute of Technology (MILIT) in Pune.
The conclave served as a platform for brainstorming and strategic dialogue on adapting PME to meet the challenges of the 21st century, with a focus on integrating emerging technologies and fostering jointness across military structures.
Under the stewardship of Lt Gen Vipul Shingal, the conclave witnessed intensive discussions and deliberations on the imperative need to modernize and realign PME to equip future leaders with the knowledge, skills, and mindset required to navigate complex operational environments and emerging threats.
The participants, comprising commandants and senior faculty members from AFTIs and War Colleges across the country, engaged in a wide-ranging exchange of ideas and best practices aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and relevance of military education in the contemporary strategic landscape.
A central theme of the conclave was the integration of emerging technologies into PME curricula to ensure that future leaders are adept at leveraging cutting-edge tools and capabilities in the conduct of military operations.
Recognizing the transformative impact of technologies such as artificial intelligence, cyber warfare, and space-based assets, the participants explored strategies for incorporating these domains into existing training frameworks, thereby enhancing the operational capabilities and resilience of the armed forces.
Furthermore, discussions revolved around the imperative of fostering jointness and interoperability among the three services, with a view to optimizing the utilization of resources and achieving synergy in mission execution.
Commandants deliberated on enhancing commonalities across training institutions and promoting a shared understanding of Indian Strategic Thinking to inform the conceptualization and execution of joint warfare doctrines.
In his address, Lt Gen Vipul Shingal underscored the importance of PME in grooming future leaders who are not only proficient in traditional warfare domains but also adept at harnessing the potential of emerging technologies and operating in an integrated, joint environment.
He emphasized the role of training institutions in instilling a culture of innovation, adaptability, and strategic foresight among military personnel, thereby enabling them to confront the challenges of an uncertain and dynamic security landscape.
The conclave concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to collaborate and innovate in transforming PME to meet the evolving needs and aspirations of the Indian Armed Forces.
As the armed forces continue to evolve in response to changing strategic realities, the collective endeavor to modernize and realign PME will play a pivotal role in shaping the capabilities and leadership ethos of the future generation of military leaders.
Through initiatives such as the 6th Conclave of Indian Armed Forces Training Institutions, the armed forces reaffirm their commitment to excellence in education and training, thereby ensuring that they remain at the forefront of defense preparedness and national security in the years to come.
The National Defence Academy (NDA) is renowned as one of India’s most prestigious training institutions, grooming future officers for the esteemed Army, Navy, and Air Force services. As aspiring cadets embark on this transformative journey, they immerse themselves in a meticulously structured daily routine, intense academic and practical training, and a rich tapestry of cadet activities – all designed to cultivate the essential qualities of disciplined leadership.
NDA Passing Out Parade
NDA Cadets Time Table
Time
Activity
Morning Routine of NDA Cadets
6:00 AM – 6:30 AM
Morning classes or drill
6:30 AM – 8:00 AM
PT or Drill (Outdoor Training Session)
8:30 AM
Breakfast at the mess (after bath and preparation for classes)
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Academic Classes (B.Sc. or B.Tech. subjects divided into six periods with hall displacement between each)
The NDA’s daily schedule is a testament to the academy’s commitment to instilling discipline and time management in its cadets. From the crack of dawn to the quiet of night, every moment is precisely structured, ensuring a seamless blend of academic pursuits, physical conditioning, and personal development.
Morning Reveille: A Rousing Start to the Day
The day begins with a special alarm – the clarion call of a junior cadet’s enthusiastic chant, rallying the squadron with the unit’s motto. Cadets quickly freshen up and gather for a brisk warm-up run, setting the tone for the physical training that follows.
Rigorous Physical Conditioning
The morning hours are dedicated to intense physical exercises and drill practices. Cadets tackle obstacle courses, engage in strength-building drills, and hone their parade skills under the watchful eyes of experienced instructors. While the training regimen remains the same for both male and female cadets, certain adjustments are made to account for physiological differences.
Fueling the Mind and Body
After the grueling physical sessions, cadets reconvene at the expansive Cadets’ Mess, one of Asia’s largest dining facilities, to refuel with a nutritious breakfast. This shared meal not only nourishes their bodies but also fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie among the diverse corps of future officers.
Intellectual Immersion
The academic curriculum at the NDA is a comprehensive blend of subjects common to the Army, Navy, and Air Force, including military law, history of campaigns, and service-specific training. Cadets are divided into six periods of classroom instruction, where they delve into subjects ranging from Bachelor of Arts to Bachelor of Science and Engineering, all while mastering foreign languages and core service-oriented disciplines.
Afternoon Explorations
As the sun reaches its zenith, cadets transition from the rigors of the classroom to a more varied afternoon schedule, blending academic study, personal time, and recreational pursuits.
Refueling and Recharging
Lunchtime at the Cadets’ Mess provides a much-needed break, allowing cadets to nourish their bodies and minds before diving into the afternoon’s activities. Some choose to rest and recharge, while others engage in cabin maintenance and other curriculum-related tasks.
Unleashing Competitive Spirits
The afternoon is dedicated to the NDA’s vibrant sporting and adventure club activities. Cadets showcase their skills in a wide array of disciplines, from team sports like football, basketball, and hockey to individual endeavors such as squash, swimming, and cross-country running. The competitive spirit is further kindled through inter-squadron events and challenges.
Honing Diverse Talents
Beyond the physical realm, the NDA encourages cadets to explore their creative and intellectual passions. Clubs and societies cater to a range of interests, from literature and arts to music and public speaking, ensuring a well-rounded development of the cadets’ personalities.
Cabin of an NDA Cadet
Evening Rituals
As the day draws to a close, the NDA’s evening routine seamlessly blends structured activities, personal study, and moments of camaraderie, preparing cadets for the next day’s challenges.
Dedicated Study Time
The early evening hours are dedicated to individual study, as cadets delve deeper into the knowledge gained during the day’s academic sessions. This focused time allows them to excel in their studies and consolidate their understanding of the curriculum.
Orders and Briefings
The evening also brings the ceremonial Orders Fall-In, where senior-term cadets assigned to specific appointments brief their juniors on upcoming events and activities. This ritual not only instills discipline but also fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose among the cadet community.
Shared Meals and Camaraderie
Dinner at the Cadets’ Mess is a time-honored tradition, with cadets from all terms gathering to share a hearty meal and engage in casual conversations. This shared experience strengthens the bonds of camaraderie that will serve them well in their future roles as officers.
Winding Down and Preparing for Tomorrow
As the day draws to a close, senior-term cadets lead their juniors in light physical activities and informal discussions, allowing for a gradual transition into the night’s rest. Lights out signals the end of the day, as cadets retire to their quarters, refreshed and ready to tackle the challenges that await them tomorrow.
Comprehensive Training
The NDA’s training curriculum goes beyond just academics and physical conditioning, encompassing a holistic approach to developing future officers.
Tactical and Strategic Training
Cadets delve into the intricacies of military tactics and strategies, honing their skills in battlefield observation, decision-making, and tactical maneuvers. This comprehensive training equips them with the essential knowledge and decision-making abilities required for effective command and control.
Outdoor Adventurism and Skill Development
The NDA encourages cadets to explore their adventurous spirits through a range of outdoor club activities, including trekking, rock climbing, water sports, and other challenging pursuits. These experiences foster teamwork, physical endurance, and outdoor survival skills – invaluable assets for the demands of military service.
Indoor Enrichment and Personality Development
Alongside the physical and tactical training, the NDA also nurtures the cadets’ intellectual and creative facets. Participation in indoor club activities, such as arts, music, literature, and public speaking, enhances their overall personality and communication skills, preparing them for the multifaceted challenges of military leadership.
Service-Specific Specialization
As cadets progress through their training, the curriculum shifts to emphasize service-specific knowledge and skills. Army cadets delve deeper into tactics and combat strategies, air force cadets commence their flying training, and naval cadets engage in watermanship and maritime operations – all tailored to their respective branches of the armed forces.
Endurance and Resilience
Regular academic examinations and rigorous physical activities, such as long-distance runs with full battle gear, fortify the cadets’ mental and physical resilience. This training not only prepares them for the demands of field operations but also instills the fortitude required to lead troops in challenging situations.
Traditions, Camaraderie, and the Passing Out Parade
Life at the NDA is steeped in rich traditions and a profound sense of camaraderie, culminating in the iconic Passing Out Parade that marks the successful completion of a cadet’s tenure.
Disciplined Environment and Squadron Rivalries
The NDA fosters a highly disciplined environment, where cadets strictly adhere to the academy’s regulations and maintain a meticulously organized daily routine. This regimented lifestyle is complemented by a healthy sense of competition and camaraderie among the various squadrons, as they vye for the coveted Inter-Squadron Championship.
Extracurricular Engagement and Leisure Activities
Beyond the academic and military training, the NDA provides ample opportunities for cadets to explore their diverse interests and talents. From indoor club activities to outdoor adventures, and from cultural events to movie nights, the academy ensures a well-rounded experience that nurtures the cadets’ holistic development.
The Passing Out Parade: A Symbolic Farewell
The Passing Out Parade is a grand and emotional event, where senior cadets bid farewell to their juniors and embark on their journeys to their respective service boards. This iconic ceremony symbolizes the unity, camaraderie, and transformation that each cadet has undergone during their time at the NDA.
Significance of the NDA Experience
The NDA’s transformative training and holistic approach to cadet development hold immense significance in shaping the future defenders of the nation.
Cultivating Discipline, Leadership, and Resilience
The NDA’s rigorous curriculum and structured daily routine instill in cadets the core values of discipline, resilience, and effective leadership. These traits are essential for officers tasked with commanding troops and navigating the challenges of military service.
Fostering a Sense of National Duty
The NDA experience goes beyond just academic and physical training, imbuing cadets with a profound sense of national duty and a unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s interests. This ethos of service and sacrifice is deeply ingrained in the cadets, preparing them to become dedicated and proficient officers.
Integrating Academics and Practical Training
The NDA’s unique approach seamlessly blends academic education with practical military training, ensuring that cadets are well-equipped to handle the multifaceted demands of their future roles. This harmonious integration sets the stage for a smooth transition from the academy to the frontlines of service.
Life at the NDA: FAQs
Q1. What is the significance of the Passing Out Parade at the NDA?
The Passing Out Parade marks the successful completion of a cadet’s tenure at the NDA. It symbolizes the unity and camaraderie among the cadets as they bid farewell to their seniors and embark on their journeys to their respective service boards.
Q2. What is the daily routine of an NDA cadet?
The NDA’s daily routine is highly structured and disciplined. It begins with a rousing wake-up call, followed by physical conditioning, academic classes, meals, outdoor activities, and personal study time, culminating in lights out in the evening.
Q3. How important is discipline at the National Defence Academy?
Discipline is the cornerstone of life at the NDA. Cadets strictly adhere to the academy’s regulations, maintaining a highly organized daily routine and living environment. This disciplined approach is essential in shaping them into capable and dedicated officers.
Q4. What extracurricular activities are available for cadets at the NDA?
The NDA offers a diverse range of indoor and outdoor club activities, including sports, adventure pursuits, literature, arts, music, debates, and public speaking. These engagements foster the cadets’ all-round personality development beyond academics and military training.
Q5. How does the NDA’s training curriculum prepare cadets for their future roles?
The NDA’s training curriculum is a comprehensive blend of academic education, tactical and strategic training, outdoor adventurism, and service-specific specialization. This holistic approach equips cadets with the knowledge, skills, and resilience required to excel as officers in the armed forces.
In a significant step towards bolstering medical support for active-duty personnel and their families, Lieutenant General Daljit Singh, AVSM, VSM, PHS, Director General of Armed Forces Medical College (DGAFMS), embarked on a visit to the Indian Coast Guard Headquarters in New Delhi. During his visit, Lt Gen Daljit Singh engaged in fruitful discussions with Director General Rakesh Pal, AVSM, PTM, TM, DGICG (@IndiaCoastGuard), focusing on avenues to enhance medical care accessibility and quality for Coast Guard personnel.
Additionally, the Director General of Armed Forces Medical College inaugurated ASHA version 2.0, an internet-based platform designed to streamline Annual Medical Examinations for Indian Coast Guard personnel.
The interaction between Lt Gen Daljit Singh and DG Rakesh Pal underscored the shared commitment of the Armed Forces Medical College and the Indian Coast Guard towards ensuring the health and well-being of personnel serving on the front lines of national security.
Discussions revolved around strategies to improve access to specialty medical care, facilitate timely treatment interventions, and enhance overall healthcare delivery mechanisms for Coast Guard personnel and their families.
Recognizing the unique operational challenges faced by the Indian Coast Guard, both leaders explored innovative solutions to optimize medical support infrastructure and resources, ensuring that personnel receive the highest standards of healthcare irrespective of their deployment locations.
Emphasis was placed on leveraging technology and digital platforms to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, enhance medical surveillance capabilities, and facilitate seamless communication between medical practitioners and Coast Guard personnel.
The inauguration of ASHA version 2.0 marks a significant milestone in the digitization of medical examination processes within the Indian Coast Guard.
The internet-based platform is designed to streamline Annual Medical Examinations, offering a user-friendly interface for personnel to schedule appointments, access medical records, and receive timely updates on their health status.
ASHA version 2.0 is poised to revolutionize medical examination practices, promoting efficiency, transparency, and accountability in healthcare management.
Speaking on the occasion, Lt Gen Daljit Singh expressed his appreciation for the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of its personnel.
He commended DG Rakesh Pal and his team for their proactive approach towards strengthening medical support mechanisms and fostering a culture of preventive healthcare within the organization.
Lt Gen Daljit Singh reiterated the Armed Forces Medical College’s readiness to extend all possible support and cooperation to the Indian Coast Guard in achieving its healthcare objectives.
In response, DG Rakesh Pal extended his gratitude to Lt Gen Daljit Singh and the Armed Forces Medical College for their valuable partnership and support.
He underscored the importance of robust medical infrastructure and services in enhancing operational readiness and resilience among Coast Guard personnel. DG Rakesh Pal reaffirmed the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of its personnel and leveraging technological innovations to deliver world-class healthcare services.
The visit of Lt Gen Daljit Singh to the Indian Coast Guard Headquarters signifies a renewed commitment to collaboration and synergy between the armed forces and paramilitary organizations in advancing healthcare excellence and ensuring the welfare of personnel serving the nation’s maritime security interests.
Through strategic partnerships and concerted efforts, the Armed Forces Medical College and the Indian Coast Guard are poised to set new benchmarks in healthcare delivery, reinforcing India’s commitment to safeguarding the health and security of its defenders.
In a significant visit aimed at enhancing the operational readiness and efficiency of the Corps of Military Police (CMP), Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOCinC) of the Army Training Command, paid a visit to the Corps of Military Police Centre & School (CMP C&S) in Bengaluru.
The visit provided an invaluable opportunity to assess the Provost Training being conducted at the prestigious institution and explore avenues for incorporating the latest technologies into the training infrastructure.
During his visit, Lt Gen Manjinder Singh was briefed comprehensively on the various aspects of Provost Training, which encompasses specialized training modules in Law Enforcement, Traffic Management, and Investigation.
The General Officer gained insights into the rigorous training regimen designed to equip Agniveers (CMP personnel) and all ranks with the requisite skills and knowledge to fulfill their multifaceted roles effectively.
Lt Gen Manjinder Singh, impressed by the dedication and professionalism of the training staff, reviewed and appreciated the state-of-the-art training facilities available at the Corps of Military Police Centre & School.
He underscored the importance of continuously evolving training methodologies and leveraging modern technologies to enhance the capabilities and readiness of CMP personnel in meeting the diverse challenges of contemporary operational environments.
Emphasizing the need for adaptation and innovation, Lt Gen Manjinder Singh highlighted the significance of integrating the latest technologies into the training infrastructure to ensure that Agniveers are equipped with cutting-edge tools and techniques to carry out their duties with precision and effectiveness.
He stressed the importance of keeping pace with advancements in law enforcement, traffic management, and investigative techniques to stay ahead of evolving threats and challenges.
The visit of Lt Gen Manjinder Singh to the Corps of Military Police Centre & School underscores the Army’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the highest standards of professionalism and operational readiness among its personnel.
By investing in training and skill development, the Army aims to empower its personnel to meet the demands of modern warfare and uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity, and professionalism.
As the Corps of Military Police continues to play a vital role in maintaining discipline, law and order, and security within the Army and in operational areas, the visit of Lt Gen Manjinder Singh reaffirms the Army’s commitment to supporting and strengthening the capabilities of its Provost Corps.
With a renewed focus on training and modernization, the Corps of Military Police remains poised to meet the evolving challenges of the 21st century battlefield and contribute effectively to the nation’s security and defense.
Amidst the escalating threat of forest fires engulfing the picturesque landscapes of Uttarakhand’s Pauri Garhwal sector, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has stepped in to provide crucial relief and support.
Responding swiftly to the crisis, IAF deployed its Mi17 V5 helicopters equipped with Bambi Buckets to undertake firefighting operations, effectively dousing the raging flames and preventing further devastation to the region’s rich biodiversity.
The forest fires, exacerbated by dry weather conditions and strong winds, posed a grave threat to the fragile ecosystem of the Pauri Garhwal sector, endangering both wildlife and human settlements in the vicinity.
Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, IAF sprung into action, leveraging its aerial capabilities to deliver much-needed assistance to the ground forces battling the inferno.
The Bambi Bucket operations conducted by the Mi17 V5 helicopters proved to be instrumental in combating the forest fires, as over 4500 litres of water were discharged over the affected areas, quelling the flames and mitigating the risk of further spread.
The precise and coordinated efforts of IAF, in close collaboration with the Uttarakhand government, enabled the firefighting crews on the ground to penetrate deep into the affected zones and extinguish the fires with greater efficiency and effectiveness.
The swift and decisive action by IAF exemplifies the organization’s commitment to serving the nation in times of crisis and underscores its role as a reliable guardian of India’s natural resources and environment.
The timely intervention not only averted potential disaster but also demonstrated the spirit of solidarity and cooperation between the armed forces and civil authorities in times of need.
Speaking on the occasion, Air Marshal Rohan Rai, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Western Air Command, lauded the exemplary efforts of IAF personnel involved in the firefighting operations.
He emphasized the importance of swift response and coordinated action in addressing natural calamities, reaffirming IAF’s unwavering commitment to providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the citizens of India.
The successful outcome of the firefighting operations in Uttarakhand’s Pauri Garhwal sector serves as a testament to the professionalism, dedication, and preparedness of IAF in tackling multifaceted challenges and safeguarding the nation’s interests.
As the threat of forest fires continues to loom large in various parts of the country, IAF remains vigilant and ready to lend its expertise and support to mitigate the impact and protect lives and livelihoods.
The collaborative efforts between IAF and the Uttarakhand government underscore the importance of synergy and coordination in disaster response and management.
By working together seamlessly, both entities have demonstrated their commitment to safeguarding the environment and ensuring the well-being of the people of Uttarakhand.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of natural disasters, such acts of solidarity and resilience serve as beacons of hope, inspiring confidence and unity in the face of adversity.
Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, Army Commander of the South Western Command, conducted a comprehensive review of the operational readiness of the Gandiv Division, emphasizing the critical importance of integrated operations and technological advancements in optimizing operational effectiveness across diverse terrain profiles.
The review session, held at a forward operating base, underscored the need for synergy and jointness among the Tri-Services to meet the challenges of modern warfare.
During the review, Lieutenant General Seth steered discussions on the integration of forces across varied terrains, recognizing the dynamic nature of contemporary battlefield environments.
He highlighted the pivotal role of leveraging technology and harnessing Tri-Services capabilities to achieve seamless coordination and enhance operational synergy.
Emphasizing the importance of adaptability and agility, he stressed the need to utilize force multipliers effectively to secure operational objectives amidst rapid-paced operations.
Addressing officers and personnel of the Gandiv Division, Lieutenant General Seth lauded their steadfast professionalism and unwavering commitment to maintaining a high state of operational readiness.
He commended their dedication and perseverance in the face of evolving security challenges, underscoring the crucial role played by each individual in ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of the division.
The review session provided an invaluable opportunity for officers and personnel of the Gandiv Division to engage in constructive dialogue and exchange ideas on enhancing operational preparedness and effectiveness.
Discussions focused on leveraging cutting-edge technologies, enhancing training methodologies, and fostering greater interoperability among different units and formations.
Lieutenant General Seth emphasized the need for a holistic approach to modern warfare, incorporating elements of jointness and integration across all domains.
He stressed the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation to stay ahead of evolving threats and maintain a competitive edge on the battlefield.
As the security landscape continues to evolve, the Gandiv Division remains committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and operational excellence.
Lieutenant General Seth’s visit and review underscored the Army’s unwavering resolve to meet the challenges of the future with confidence and determination.
The Gandiv Division, under the able leadership of its officers and personnel, reaffirmed its commitment to the nation’s security and territorial integrity. Through rigorous training, innovation, and a spirit of camaraderie, the division stands ready to face any challenge and emerge victorious, safeguarding the nation’s interests and upholding its proud legacy of service and sacrifice.
