In a strategic show of force and inter-service coordination, the Indian Army’s Gajraj Corps and the Indian Air Force carried out a Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO) exercise at Umroi Military Station in Assam. The exercise demonstrated the ability of both forces to execute swift and coordinated troop deployments, reinforcing combat preparedness in the eastern sector.
Synergy in action! In a remarkable display of tactical coordination, the troops of @GajrajCorps_IA#IndianArmy & #IndianAirForce conducted a Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO) exercise at #Umroi. The joint exercise showcased rapid deployment capabilities for combat preparedness… pic.twitter.com/8NQOWT2PRX
— Gajraj Corps – Indian Army (@GajrajCorps_IA) June 3, 2025
The drill involved elite troops from the Tezpur-based Gajraj Corps being airlifted using IAF helicopters for rapid insertion into simulated operational zones. Equipped with advanced combat gear, the soldiers conducted multiple high-precision phases, including airborne insertion, tactical ground coordination, and mock engagement with enemy positions. The exercise emphasized operational synergy between air and ground units in complex terrain and high-intensity scenarios.
This SHBO exercise comes in the wake of several integrated training activities in the region. Notably, Exercise Yudh Kaushal 2.0 was held in March 2025 at the same location with participation from the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, which provided technological support and innovation for battlefield scenarios. It also follows Exercise Winged Raider, focused on airborne special operations and attended by senior military leadership, including General Upendra Dwivedi and Air Chief Marshal AP Singh.
The Gajraj Corps, with a storied history dating back to its role in the 1971 Indo-Pak War and the liberation of Bangladesh, continues to play a critical role in India’s defense posture. The corps has remained operationally active in the region through counter-insurgency efforts like Operation Rhino in the 1990s, and now plays a pivotal role in preparing for both conventional and hybrid threats.
Military commanders underscored the strategic importance of these exercises in ensuring readiness across the northeastern states and Sikkim. The eastern frontier, which has seen historical tensions, particularly during the 1962 Sino-Indian War, remains a sensitive area where rapid force deployment is essential. The re-raising of the Gajraj Corps after that conflict has become a foundation for India’s modern defense strategy in the east.
The SHBO exercise at Umroi is a clear reflection of India’s evolving military doctrine—one that emphasizes jointness, speed, and technological integration. As regional and global security challenges grow more complex, such training ensures that Indian armed forces remain flexible, coordinated, and capable of responding decisively to emerging threats.
In a significant move aimed at dismantling internal support networks for terrorism, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has dismissed three government employees for their alleged links with Pakistan-based terror outfits. The three individuals — Malik Ishfaq Naseer, Ajaz Ahmed, and Waseem Ahmad Khan — have also been jailed following a probe that connected them to banned terrorist groups Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM).
This crackdown comes in the aftermath of a deadly terror attack in April that claimed the lives of 26 civilians in the Union Territory. According to security officials, the sacked employees were not just sympathizers but active collaborators in terror operations.
Malik Ishfaq Naseer, a police constable since 2007, allegedly coordinated arms, explosives, and narcotics consignments for LeT operatives. His involvement came to light during an arms smuggling investigation. Officials said he also arranged safe hideouts for militants and supplied them with weapons. His brother, Asif Naseer, was killed in a 2019 encounter with security forces.
Ajaz Ahmed, a teacher in the School Education Department since 2011, was reportedly an active Hizbul Mujahideen associate operating in the Poonch region. Security forces arrested him in 2023 while he was transporting a consignment of arms under orders from a handler based in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. Hizbul propaganda materials were also seized from his possession.
The third accused, Waseem Ahmad Khan, worked as a junior assistant at the Government Medical College, Srinagar, since 2007. Officials revealed his alleged role in a 2018 terror plot that led to the assassination of journalist Shujaat Bukhari and his two security guards. His links to terrorist operatives had surfaced during a broader investigation into that attack.
A senior security official stated that such infiltration into critical government departments, including the police and education sectors, poses a grave threat to national security. “A mole inside the system can compromise missions and cost lives. This action is part of a broader effort to weed out internal terror sympathizers,” the official said.
All three individuals are currently in judicial custody as investigations continue.
A recently surfaced dossier from Pakistan has revealed that Indian forces struck significantly more targets during Operation Sindoor than were initially disclosed by Indian authorities. According to the document, part of Pakistan’s internal report on its military response named Operation Bunyan un Marsoos, Indian airstrikes targeted at least eight additional locations, including major cities like Peshawar, Gujranwala, Jhang, and Hyderabad in Sindh.
These locations were not mentioned by either the Indian Air Force or the Director General of Military Operations in their official briefings following the May 7 airstrikes. The dossier includes detailed maps showing strikes on cities across Pakistan’s provinces, including Gujrat in Punjab, Bahawalnagar, Attock, and Chor. This revelation shifts the narrative around Operation Sindoor, highlighting the depth and strategic precision of India’s military response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.
The newly revealed targets underline India’s capability to strike deep inside Pakistani territory, and also provide context for Pakistan’s request for a ceasefire just 72 hours after the conflict began. Indian sources suggest the omission of these locations from public disclosures was a deliberate tactic to expose Pakistan’s narrative inconsistencies and compel it to admit the full extent of the damage.
Damage Showed in the Dossier.
⚡ Pakistan's own dossier has confirmed that India attacked 8 additional targets during Operation Sindoor, in addition to the 11 airbases initially reported by India.
Earlier satellite images from Maxar Technologies had confirmed heavy destruction at known terror infrastructure sites. India had initially stated that it struck nine key targets on May 7, including the Jaish-e-Mohammed headquarters in Bahawalpur and the Lashkar-e-Toiba training centre in Muridke. Other targets included Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Rawalakot, Chakswari, Bhimber, Neelum Valley, Jhelum, and Chakwal in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Following retaliatory drone and missile attacks by Pakistan on Indian civilian and military locations, India expanded its counter-offensive to include Pakistani military air bases. Eleven Pakistani air bases were reportedly hit in successive strikes, including Nur Khan, Rafiqui, Murid, Sukkur, Sialkot, Pasrur, Chunian, Sargodha, Skardu, Bholari, and Jacobabad.
India’s position after Operation Sindoor has been clear: any terror strike on Indian soil will be treated as an act of war. With Pakistan’s own documents now revealing the scale of Indian airstrikes, the impact of Operation Sindoor appears to be far more extensive than initially perceived, both in tactical execution and in geopolitical messaging.
A proud moment unfolded at the 39 Gorkha Training Centre in Varanasi as 197 Agniveer recruits participated in their Passing Out Parade, taking the solemn oath of national service. The event marked the successful completion of their seven-month-long rigorous military training, which began in November 2024.
The ceremony commenced with an electrifying Khukuri performance, followed by a disciplined and energetic march past. Traditional military drills were on full display, captivating the large audience that included parents, veterans, and dignitaries from Varanasi.
Brigadier Anirban Dutta, SM, Commandant of the 39 Gorkha Training Centre, reviewed the parade and praised the dedication and transformation of the young trainees. Over the course of their training, the Agniveers underwent both basic and advanced warfare education, evolving from ordinary youth into well-prepared, mentally resilient soldiers ready for combat.
The atmosphere was charged with emotion as the Agniveers presented arms in front of the saluting dais. The thunderous applause from the audience, especially the proud parents, echoed across the venue. Many were seen with tears of joy as their sons marched with confidence and valor, symbolizing the discipline, strength, and spirit of the Indian Armed Forces.
The 39 Gorkha Training Centre continues to be a beacon of excellence in molding young men into capable, tough, and mentally agile warriors committed to the nation’s service.
A dramatic jailbreak unfolded late Monday night at Karachi’s high-security Malir District Jail, with more than 200 inmates escaping amidst panic sparked by earthquake tremors. The incident has prompted a citywide high alert and a massive search operation by Pakistani security forces.
The chaos began when tremors were felt in parts of Karachi, leading to confusion within the prison complex. As a precaution, authorities reportedly moved inmates out of their barracks, inadvertently allowing between 700 to 1,000 prisoners to gather near the main gate. Amid the disorder, prisoners allegedly overpowered guards, snatched weapons, opened fire, and forced open the main gate. Contrary to early reports, officials confirmed the escape route was through the main gate, not the damaged wall.
During the escape, at least one inmate was killed, and over a dozen were injured, including three Frontier Corps (FC) personnel and a jail guard. Some prisoners reportedly belonged to high-risk criminal categories.
By Tuesday morning, around 75 prisoners had been recaptured, while the search for the remaining escapees continued. Roadblocks, surveillance checkpoints, and traffic restrictions were imposed around the jail and across the city. Authorities deployed Rangers, police units, the Special Security Unit (SSU), and the Rapid Response Force (RRF) to intensify search and recovery efforts.
Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar, who visited the site along with senior police and prison officials, confirmed a formal inquiry has been launched into the jailbreak. He assured that any prison staff found negligent will face strict disciplinary action. Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah was also briefed and ordered immediate steps to strengthen prison security across the province.
As the situation stabilizes within Malir Jail, Karachi remains on high alert. The Sindh government urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement and report any suspicious activity. Meanwhile, intelligence-sharing and surveillance measures have been ramped up to ensure that all escapees are brought back into custody.
Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair, Director General Medical Services (Army) and the first woman to lead the Army Medical Corps (AMC), visited the Base Hospital Delhi Cantt (BHDC) on June 2 to assess operations and inaugurate key renovated facilities. Her visit marked a significant moment in the Army’s ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and recognize the role of women in both service and leadership.
Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair, #DGMS (Army) & Sr Col Commandant,AMC, visited Base Hospital Delhi Cantt #BHDC on 02 June 2025. The General Officer was briefed by Maj Gen Amresh Ghai, Commandant, on the hospital's role and operational preparedness and challenges of being one of the busiest… pic.twitter.com/ksru2rLhSf
During the visit, Lt Gen Nair was briefed by Maj Gen Amresh Ghai, Commandant of BHDC, about the hospital’s pivotal role in the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS). As one of the busiest and most advanced medical establishments catering to service personnel, veterans, and their families, BHDC is vital to military healthcare in the region.
A major highlight of the visit was the inauguration of the newly renovated Obstetrics and Gynecology wards, now renamed MAITREYI, meaning “The provider of life.” This symbolic renaming underscores the hospital’s commitment to maternal and women’s health, echoing national trends in emphasizing women’s healthcare, as seen in major civilian hospitals like Safdarjung.
Lt Gen Nair also unveiled departmental insignias and mission statements, reinforcing the hospital’s dedication to professionalism and compassionate care. She later toured the hospital’s high-tech Dialysis Centre, which serves critical care needs with state-of-the-art equipment.
Engaging with medical officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), and other ranks, Lt Gen Nair commended the staff for their unwavering commitment and high standards in patient care. Her appreciation mirrors her previous observations during a visit to Base Hospital Lucknow earlier this year, where she acknowledged innovation and dedication within AFMS.
The visit highlighted the Indian Army’s dual focus on operational readiness and medical advancement. Through consistent modernization and a patient-centric approach, BHDC continues to uphold its tradition of excellence in serving the armed forces community.
A man from Punjab’s Tarn Taran district has been arrested for allegedly leaking sensitive military information to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) during the recent Operation Sindoor. Identified as Gagandeep Singh, a resident of Mohalla Rodupur in Tarn Taran, the accused had been under surveillance following an alert from Counter-Intelligence Punjab.
Acting swiftly on information received from Counter-Intelligence-Punjab, @TarnTaranPolice, in a joint operation arrests Gagandeep Singh @ Gagan, a resident of Mohalla Rodupur, Gali Nazar Singh Wali, #TarnTaran.
— DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) June 3, 2025
According to Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, Singh had been in contact with Pakistan-based Khalistani supporter Gopal Singh Chawla for the past five years. Through Chawla, he was introduced to Pakistani Intelligence Operatives (PIOs), with whom he allegedly shared classified details such as troop movements and strategic military locations. In return, he received payments via Indian financial channels.
The DGP shared details of the arrest in a post on social media platform X, stating that Singh’s actions posed a significant threat to national security. A mobile phone recovered from the suspect contained incriminating data, including communications with over 20 suspected ISI contacts and evidence of intelligence leaks.
A joint operation conducted by Tarn Taran Police and counter-intelligence units led to the arrest, and authorities have since launched comprehensive financial and technical investigations to trace the full network involved in the espionage activity.
Officials emphasized that the case underlines the continued attempts by Pakistan to exploit internal sympathizers through honeytrap and ideological networks, especially during critical military operations like Operation Sindoor.
In a key development underscoring the Indian Army’s focus on technological preparedness and operational efficiency, Lieutenant General JS Sidana, Director General of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (DGEME) and Senior Colonel Commandant of the Corps of EME, met with Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of Surya Command, at the Central Command headquarters in Lucknow.
Lt Gen JS Sidana, #DGEME & Senior Colonel Commandant of the Corps of #EME, called on Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, #GOC-in-C #SuryaCommand. They discussed key sustenance issues and proactive initiatives by EME to enhance operational… pic.twitter.com/9dwVUIqXgG
The meeting revolved around crucial sustenance issues and the proactive measures being implemented by the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) to enhance the Army’s readiness and effectiveness in contemporary combat scenarios. A formal exchange of a memento from Lt Gen Sidana to Lt Gen Sengupta marked the spirit of cooperation between the two commands. The meeting took place in a setting reflective of military decorum, featuring regimental flags and honours.
Following the strategic discussions, Lt Gen Sidana conducted a visit to EME units based in Lucknow. He reviewed their operational preparedness and inspected advanced systems including state-of-the-art weaponry and unmanned aerial vehicles. Addressing the personnel, he commended their professional commitment and urged them to uphold the highest standards of technical excellence.
The Corps of EME, formed in 1943, is vital to the Indian Army’s technological infrastructure. Initially focusing on electrical systems, it has evolved over the decades to become a cornerstone of electronics and high-tech maintenance, particularly since the Army’s modernisation thrusts in the 1980s and 1990s.
Surya Command, headquartered in Lucknow, is one of the Army’s seven operational commands. It plays a strategic role in safeguarding India’s northern and central regions, especially along the Indo-Tibet and Indo-Nepal borders in Uttarakhand. First established during World War II in 1942, and later re-raised in 1963 after the Sino-Indian War, Surya Command today operates as a key defensive formation with responsibilities across Uttar Bharat and Madhya Bharat.
This high-level interaction reflects the Army’s continuing emphasis on the integration of advanced technologies and collaboration across commands to ensure mission readiness. It also follows a recent meeting on May 29 between Lt Gen Sengupta and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, where the focus was on strengthening security frameworks and improving welfare measures for defence veterans, highlighting Surya Command’s engagement with state leadership.
Across the world, the 21-gun salute is the ultimate military honor, accorded to heads of state and celebrated fallen heroes. In India, too, this thunderous salute is used in national ceremonies and the funerals of martyrs who died for the nation. But why 21 shots? The answer lies in a blend of history, symbolism and tradition. What began as a naval practice has become the most powerful gesture of national respect – a final “thank you” to those who gave their lives.
Historical Origins
The salute’s roots go back to the Age of Sail. When warships entered friendly ports, they fired all their cannons to show they were unloaded and meant no harm. Early British custom was to fire seven cannon shots (the number of guns on a typical ship) and have forts on shore reply with three shots for each one. The result was 7×3 = 21. Odd numbers were chosen for luck (even numbers were seen as inauspicious or a sign of death), so the practice crystallized into a 21-shot salute. Over the centuries, “seven by sea, three by land” became the celebrated origin story of today’s 21-gun salute.
A Dutch man-of-war firing a salute. The Cannon Shot, painting by Willem van de Velde the Younger.
Global Standardization
By the 1800s, 21 shots had been formalized. In Britain, a 21-gun salute became the official honor for royalty around 1808. In the United States, regulations in 1842 made 21 the presidential salute, and by 1875 the US Navy adopted 21 rounds as the standard international salute, matching Britain and other powers. Over time, the 21-gun salute spread worldwide – an internationally recognized salute for a nation’s flag or chief of state. As one US source notes, 21-gun salutes eventually became the “international standard” for honoring leaders.
Royal Gun Salute in Hyde Park on The Prince of Wales’s birthday, 2012.
Significance in India
In India, the 21-gun salute is woven into national ritual and patriotism. For example, every Republic Day culminates with the President unfurling the tricolor as seven field guns fire three volleys (21 shots) during the national anthem. Some that this 21-gun salute “has been a constant feature of all our Republic Days”. While other explain that the 21-gun salute is considered “the highest honour of the country,” given to the President (as The Supreme Commander) and visiting heads of state on grand occasions. In other words, it is India’s ultimate military salute: a powerful tribute at flag ceremonies or the funerals of great leaders and martyrs alike. On Republic or Independence Day, the Army’s ceremonial battery (historically 25-pounder guns, now 105 mm howitzers) lines up to execute the salute, symbolizing national unity and respect for those who serve.
Respect roll: Twenty-one shots from seven artillery guns fired in three rounds come at intervals of 2.25 seconds, covering the 52-second duration of the national anthem as it plays on Republic Day
Why 21? Symbolic Meaning
The number 21 carries special resonance. Mathematically, it is 3×7, combining two numbers long held to be auspicious or complete. Seven was seen as mystical (seven days of creation, seven heavens, etc.), and three often represents completeness or divinity. The old tradition of forts firing three shots per ship shot made the number concrete (7×3), and that arithmetic became legendary. In folklore, even numbers were unlucky at sea, so an odd total like 21 was preferred. Put simply, 21 became a way to signify the supreme honor – the highest odd-number tribute that could be given. Some historians also note the astronomical angle: 21 (as 3×7) matched the known celestial bodies in the sky, though this is debated. In any case, the choice of 21 blends ritual tradition with a sense of completeness and highest respect.
At the 74th Republic Day celebrations, the British-era ’25 pounder artillery was replaced by 105 mm Indian field guns for the 21-gun salute. The move is in line with the Centre’s push for ‘Make in India’ and a step towards an ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
Modern Protocols
In practice today, 21-gun salutes follow strict protocols. Key occasions include:
National ceremonies: On Republic Day (Jan 26) and Independence Day (Aug 15) in India, 21 blank shells are fired by the ceremonial battery after the President’s address or flag-hoisting. (Seven guns fire three times each, timed to cover the national anthem’s 52-second duration.)
State occasions: New Presidents, visiting foreign heads of state or royal dignitaries receive a 21-gun salute as a sign of highest honor. For example, the Guide London notes that even a US President visiting the UK would get the 21-gun royal salute.
Funerals: In state and military funerals, the 21-gun salute is reserved for the very top leaders and heroes. Heads of state (e.g. a President) get 21 rounds, while senior officers get lesser salutes (India’s Chief of Defence Staff received 17 rounds at his funeral). In honor ceremonies for decorated martyrs, 21 guns are often fired as part of full military honors (see examples below).
Ordnance: The salute is delivered by artillery. In India, the Army’s 8711 Field Battery (Ceremonial) brings in six towed guns (historically WWII 25-pounders, now 105 mm Indian Field Guns) to fire 21 blank cartridges. (In fact, seven guns fire three rounds apiece.) These special “ceremonial” shells produce thunderous noise and smoke with no live projectile.
Guns Salute being given by Police personnel.
Difference Between 21-Gun Salute and 3-Volley Salute
It is important not to confuse the 21-gun salute with the “three-volley salute” seen at military funerals. The three-volley salute is performed by a rifle party (a firing squad of three soldiers) who fire three blank shots in unison at a funeral. This tradition dates to battlefield customs of pausing fire to clear the dead. By contrast, the 21-gun salute uses artillery (field guns) and is reserved for state honors and national leaders. In short, the three-volley is a final act by comrades at any soldier’s funeral, while the 21-gun salute is a grand, public salute reserved for the nation’s highest honorees.
The three-volley salute is performed by a rifle party (a firing squad of three soldiers) who fire three blank shots in unison at a funeral.
Emotional and National Impact
These thunderous salvos carry deep meaning for the nation. Iconic heroes are enshrined in memory at the very moment the guns roar. For example, Kargil war hero Captain Vikram Batra, PVC – “the face of the Indian soldier” – is still honored each July 7 in annual tributes. Such figures inspire the pride behind every salute. At Colonel Santosh Mahadik’s funeral in Maharashtra, villagers stood solemnly under the draped flag as the Army fired the 21-gun salute. Eyewitnesses later recalled the air filled with shouts of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai!” as the guns boomed. Similarly, during the cremation of young Agniveer Murli Naik, his mother lit the funeral pyre while “the Army offered a 21-gun salute. In that moment, grief turned to pride,” according to the press. In New Delhi, when India’s Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat was laid to rest, hundreds of soldiers and citizens marched behind his coffin under 17 artillery shots (the highest Army salute). Onlookers waved flags and cried “Hail Mother India!” as Prime Minister Modi vowed, “India will never forget their rich contribution.”. In all these scenes the gun salute blends mourning with national respect. Each shot is a communal salute – a final salute expressing that the nation stands behind its heroes.
Former CDS Bipin Rawat was given a 17 artillery shots (Highest in Army)
Other Types of Gun Salutes Around the World
While the 21-gun salute is the highest military honour, different numbers of gun salutes are used based on rank, protocol, or occasion. These include:
17-Gun Salute: In India, this is accorded to the Vice President, Chief Ministers, and Chiefs of the Armed Forces.
15-Gun Salute: Given to certain dignitaries like cabinet ministers, governors, or visiting ambassadors, depending on diplomatic rank and occasion.
11-Gun and 7-Gun Salutes: Reserved for high-ranking officials of lesser stature or during non-state ceremonial events.
19-Gun Salute: Used in countries like the United States and the UK for Vice Presidents, Deputy Heads of State, and certain high-ranking military officers.
Custom Salutes by Nation: Some nations have their own traditions. For example:
The UK Royal Navy uses gun salutes based on the rank of the admiral or royal.
The US Military has an official table that prescribes the number of rounds (ranging from 11 to 21) based on office held.
These varying salutes are deeply rooted in military courtesy, reflecting rank, respect, and tradition — ensuring each officer, leader, or guest receives honours commensurate with their status.
Conclusion
The 21-gun salute is far more than a ritual; it is the nation’s loudest “thank you.” From its naval origins to India’s grand parades, it symbolizes complete honor and gratitude. As sources note, it is the “highest honor” a country can render. Every booming volley says: we remember your sacrifice. In India, as in other nations, the 21-gun salute remains the ultimate tribute – not mere ceremony but the deepest gesture of a grateful nation bidding farewell to its bravest.
A wave of mourning swept across Baraban village in Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district as news broke of Lance Naik Manish Thakur’s tragic death in a landslide in North Sikkim. The 27-year-old soldier from the Dogra Regiment was martyred on Sunday evening while on duty near the Brigade Headquarters at Chatten.
Lance Naik Thakur, remembered by his comrades and villagers for his discipline and humility, had joined the Indian Army in September 2016. Over the past eight years, he served the nation with quiet commitment and dedication. He is survived by his wife, Tanu Devi, and his parents, Joginder Singh and Kiran Bala, who live in Baraban (Kolar) village under Nahan tehsil.
Confirming the incident, Deputy Director of the Sainik Welfare Board in Sirmaur, Major (Retd) Deepak Dhawan, said that the soldier’s mortal remains are expected to reach Chandigarh by aircraft later in the evening. From there, the body will be transported to his native village by road with full military honours.
“Lance Naik Manish Thakur has laid down his life in the line of duty and we salute his supreme sacrifice. The district administration, along with the Army and the Sainik Welfare Board, is fully supporting the bereaved family,” said Major Dhawan.
The final rites will be performed in Baraban village with full military honours, following the Assured Decent Last Rites (ADLR) protocol. The entire region stands united in grief and pride, saluting the fallen hero for his unwavering service to the nation.
