Trainees participating in the “Map Craft Instructor Course” at the Army Education Corps (AEC) Training College and Centre are currently navigating the rugged landscapes of mountainous and semi-mountainous terrain as part of Exercise Agni Prahar.
The AEC Training College and Centre, a prestigious institution established on June 15, 1921, has a storied history and a legacy of excellence in military education. Originally formed as the Army School of Education with separate British and Indian wings, it unified under one commandant in 1931. The institution, renamed in 1961 following its affiliation with Dr. Hari Singh Gaur Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar, offers a variety of educational programs including degrees in Education, Library and Information Science, and Education Technology, as well as diploma courses in Audio-Visual and Fundamental Education.
In keeping with technological advancements, the AEC has modernized its facilities to include hi-tech classrooms, intranet and internet connectivity, instructional monitoring systems, fully automated libraries, computer-based language labs, and a GIS system for map reading training. The centre is also equipped with a CBT Production Centre to enhance learning experiences.
As part of its ongoing efforts to adapt and evolve, the AEC is poised to expand its charter to include stress management and counseling, clerks training, educational rehabilitation, and civic action, ensuring its relevance and efficacy in contemporary military education.
Located in the serene hills of Pachmarhi, the AEC Training College and Centre continues to uphold its mission of excellence, preparing its trainees to meet the challenges of tomorrow with precision and resilience.
The Officers Training Academy (OTA) Gaya, a premier training establishment of the Indian Army, recently held a felicitation ceremony to honor the outstanding achievements of Officer Cadets from the TES-49 and SCO-52 courses. The event, marked by enthusiasm and pride, saw cadets being awarded for their excellence in sports, physical fitness, tactics, and weapon training.
The prestigious ‘Awards of Excellence’ were presented by the Commandant of OTA Gaya, highlighting the cadets’ dedication and perseverance throughout their rigorous training period. The event culminated in the awarding of the Commandant’s Banner to Batra Battalion, recognizing their exceptional performance and esprit de corps.
OTA Gaya, established in July 2011, is located in the scenic and hilly terrain of Paharpur, Gaya. Spread over approximately 870 acres, the academy provides a comprehensive training program for officer cadets of the Technical Entry Scheme (TES) and Special Commissioned Officer (SCO) courses. The academy’s training regimen spans 12 months, where cadets are meticulously trained in various aspects of military life.
The insignia of OTA Gaya is distinguished by its two-color background, with the upper half in grey and the lower half in blood-red, symbolizing strength and sacrifice. Central to the insignia are two crossed swords superimposed on the Dharmachakra, embodying the academy’s motto: “Shaurya, Gyan, Sankalp” (Valour, Wisdom, and Resolve).
Training at OTA Gaya commences in January and July, followed by three years of technical training at Cadet Training Wings (CTWs) in Pune, Secunderabad, and Mhow. The academy offers two types of entries: TES and SCO. TES cadets undergo one year of Basic Military Training (BMT) at OTA Gaya, followed by a degree course at CTWs. SCO cadets participate in an eight-week Personality and Skills Development training at the Army Education Corps Centre and College (AECC&C) in Pachmarhi, before completing 46 weeks of Pre-Commission Training at OTA Gaya.
Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, OTA Gaya ensures its cadets receive top-tier training, comparable to other prestigious pre-commissioning institutions. This recent ceremony not only celebrated the cadets’ achievements but also underscored OTA Gaya’s vital role in shaping the future leaders of the Indian Army, particularly in the engineering branch.
The Officers Training Academy Gaya continues to stand as a beacon of excellence, commitment, and perseverance, fostering a new generation of officers ready to serve and protect the nation.
In the lead-up to World Environment Day on June 5, the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) has undertaken a series of awareness rallies and competitions aimed at promoting the preservation of the environment.
These activities focus on this year’s theme, which underscores the urgent need for land restoration, desertification prevention, and drought resilience.
The events have garnered significant participation from Naval personnel, Defence civilians, dockyard apprentices, and under trainees, reflecting a strong commitment to environmental stewardship within the military community.
The Eastern Naval Command’s initiative includes a variety of engaging and educational activities designed to raise awareness about critical environmental issues.
Among these activities are poster and slogan-making competitions, as well as essay contests. These events not only highlight the environmental theme but also encourage participants to think creatively about solutions to pressing ecological challenges.
The poster and slogan-making competitions have drawn enthusiastic participation from across the ENC. Participants have been tasked with creating visually striking and thought-provoking posters that convey the importance of land restoration, the prevention of desertification, and enhancing drought resilience.
The slogans, concise and impactful, aim to capture the essence of the environmental message and inspire action.
The submissions have been diverse and imaginative, showcasing the participants’ understanding of the issues and their commitment to environmental preservation.
These competitions serve as a platform for Naval personnel, Defence civilians, and apprentices to express their perspectives and contribute to the broader dialogue on environmental sustainability.
In addition to the visual and creative arts competitions, the ENC has organized essay contests that provide a more in-depth exploration of the environmental theme.
Participants have been invited to write essays that delve into the causes and consequences of land degradation, the strategies for preventing desertification, and the measures needed to build drought resilience.
These essays reflect a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between human activities and environmental health. The participants’ insights and proposed solutions demonstrate a keen awareness of the urgent need for sustainable practices and policies.
The awareness rallies and competitions have seen substantial involvement from a wide array of ENC members. Naval personnel, Defence civilians, dockyard apprentices, and under trainees have all actively engaged in the events, underscoring the widespread commitment to environmental issues within the Eastern Naval Command.
The events organized by the ENC are not just about raising awareness; they also serve an educational purpose. Through these activities, participants gain a deeper understanding of environmental issues and the role they can play in mitigating them.
The poster, slogan, and essay competitions encourage individuals to think critically about the environment and foster a sense of responsibility towards its protection.
Moreover, the visibility of these activities within the ENC community helps to inspire others to take action. The creative expressions and thoughtful writings serve as powerful reminders of the importance of environmental stewardship and the collective effort needed to achieve sustainability goals.
As World Environment Day approaches, the Eastern Naval Command’s efforts to promote environmental awareness are set to culminate in a series of additional events and activities. These will include environmental clean-up drives, tree-planting campaigns, and educational workshops aimed at furthering the message of sustainability and conservation.
The ENC’s proactive approach to environmental preservation highlights the critical role that military organizations can play in promoting sustainability. By engaging their personnel in meaningful and impactful activities, they set an example for other organizations and communities to follow.
The Eastern Naval Command’s awareness rallies and competitions are a shining example of how the military can lead by example in the realm of environmental preservation.
The active participation and creative contributions from Naval personnel, Defence civilians, dockyard apprentices, and under trainees reflect a unified commitment to addressing critical ecological challenges.
As the world prepares to celebrate World Environment Day, the ENC’s efforts serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of collective action in safeguarding our planet. Through education, engagement, and creative expression, the ENC is helping to build a more sustainable future, one step at a time.
In conclusion, the Eastern Naval Command’s proactive measures and enthusiastic participation in environmental preservation activities underscore the significance of World Environment Day.
By fostering awareness and encouraging action, the ENC is contributing to a global movement aimed at restoring land, preventing desertification, and enhancing drought resilience, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.
In a significant step towards enhancing maritime safety and fostering international cooperation, four specialist diving officers from the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) are participating in the Rescue Divers Diving Workshop organized by the Japan Coast Guard (JCG).
The workshop, taking place from June 3 to June 7 at the Japan Coast Guard Academy in Kure, aims to share best practices, fine-tune rescue diving skill sets, and reinforce safety management training.
The workshop is part of a cooperative arrangement between the Indian Coast Guard and the Japan Coast Guard, reflecting the strong maritime ties and mutual commitment to ensuring safe and secure seas.
This collaboration is crucial for both nations, given their strategic locations and the increasing significance of maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.
The five-day workshop brings together experienced diving officers from both coast guards to engage in an intensive training program designed to enhance their operational capabilities. The key objectives of the workshop include:
The workshop features a blend of theoretical sessions and practical training exercises. Expert instructors from the Japan Coast Guard Academy will lead interactive sessions covering various aspects of rescue diving, including advanced techniques, equipment handling, and emergency response protocols.
Practical training exercises will simulate real-life rescue scenarios, allowing participants to apply their skills in controlled environments. These exercises are designed to test their proficiency and ability to operate under pressure, ensuring they are well-prepared for actual rescue missions.
This collaborative effort between the Indian and Japan Coast Guards is a testament to the growing bilateral relationship between the two nations.
Both countries share a common interest in promoting maritime security and safety, and such initiatives play a crucial role in building mutual trust and understanding.
The participation of the Indian Coast Guard in this workshop underscores its commitment to maintaining high standards of operational readiness and excellence. The ICG diving officers bring with them a wealth of experience from their extensive training and operational backgrounds, contributing significantly to the exchange of knowledge and best practices.
The Rescue Divers Diving Workshop is expected to pave the way for further collaborative initiatives between the Indian and Japan Coast Guards.
Both organizations recognize the value of continuous learning and skill enhancement, and this workshop serves as a foundation for future joint training programs and operational exercises.
As maritime challenges continue to evolve, the need for strong international partnerships becomes increasingly important. By working together, the Indian and Japan Coast Guards can better address common challenges, such as search and rescue operations, maritime law enforcement, and environmental protection.
The Rescue Divers Diving Workshop at the Japan Coast Guard Academy is more than just a training program; it is a symbol of the enduring partnership between the Indian and Japan Coast Guards.
Through this initiative, both nations are taking significant steps towards enhancing their rescue diving capabilities and ensuring the safety and security of their maritime domains.
As the workshop progresses, the participating officers will not only refine their skills but also build lasting relationships that will strengthen the bonds between the two coast guards. This collaboration highlights the importance of international cooperation in achieving common goals and underscores the shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
In conclusion, the Rescue Divers Diving Workshop represents a crucial effort in fostering maritime safety and cooperation.
The shared knowledge and skills gained from this workshop will undoubtedly contribute to the operational effectiveness of both the Indian and Japan Coast Guards, ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle the challenges of the future.
In a visit that underscores the importance of advanced maintenance and repair capabilities in high-altitude terrains, Lt Gen JS Sidana, Director General of the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (DGEME) and Senior Colonel Commandant of the Corps of EME, toured the state-of-the-art repair facilities for armoured, artillery, and aviation assets deployed in Ladakh.
This visit highlights the Indian Army’s commitment to ensuring operational readiness and mission reliability in one of the most challenging environments.
The repair facilities in Ladakh are designed to support the maintenance and swift repair of crucial military assets operating in the high-altitude terrain, where the harsh climate and difficult terrain pose significant challenges.
The facilities cater to a range of armoured vehicles, artillery systems, and aviation assets, ensuring they remain in peak operational condition.
During his visit, Lt Gen Sidana was thoroughly briefed on the unique capabilities and advanced technologies employed at these facilities.
The state-of-the-art infrastructure includes specialized repair bays, diagnostic tools, and spare parts depots that are tailored to the specific needs of high-altitude operations. These facilities play a critical role in ensuring that the equipment remains operationally worthy and mission-ready at all times.
The DGEME’s visit included detailed briefings on the various aspects of the repair facilities, highlighting their contribution to the operational effectiveness of the Indian Army’s units deployed in Ladakh. The briefings covered:
Lt Gen Sidana expressed his admiration for the professionalism, technical prowess, and dexterity displayed by all ranks of the Corps of EME. He noted that their dedication and skill are crucial in maintaining the operational readiness of the Indian Army in such a strategically important region.
The visit also underscored the importance of mission reliability in high-altitude operations. The unique repair facilities in Ladakh are not just about fixing equipment; they are about ensuring that the Indian Army can rely on its assets to perform flawlessly when it matters the most.
This reliability is critical for maintaining strategic advantage and operational supremacy in the region.
Lt Gen Sidana’s interactions with the personnel highlighted the continuous efforts being made to enhance the capabilities of the repair facilities. From integrating the latest technologies to adopting innovative repair techniques, the Corps of EME is at the forefront of ensuring that the Indian Army’s equipment is always mission-ready.
The state-of-the-art repair facilities in Ladakh represent a strategic asset for the Indian Army. They ensure that the armoured, artillery, and aviation assets deployed in this high-altitude terrain remain in optimal condition, ready to respond to any operational requirements.
Lt Gen Sidana’s visit reaffirmed the critical role of the Corps of EME in maintaining the Indian Army’s operational readiness and highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance their capabilities.
As the Indian Army continues to face complex security challenges in high-altitude regions, the importance of advanced repair and maintenance facilities cannot be overstated.
The professionalism and technical expertise of the Corps of EME ensure that the Indian Army remains a formidable force, capable of defending the nation’s interests in the most demanding environments.
The visit by Lt Gen JS Sidana not only recognized the exceptional work being done by the Corps of EME but also set the stage for further advancements in their capabilities, ensuring that the Indian Army’s operational readiness and mission reliability are second to none.
In a significant step towards enhancing military cooperation and communication interoperability, the seventh annual Command & Control Compatibility Board (CCCB) meeting between the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) India commenced today in New Delhi.
This four-day event marks another milestone in the collaborative defense efforts between the two nations, following the signing of the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) in September 2018.
The CCCB meeting, which will run from June 4 to June 7, brings together a 29-member delegation from USINDOPACOM led by Mr. Paul Nicholson, Executive Director J6, and a 38-member Indian delegation headed by Brigadier Rahul Anand from the Headquarters of Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) India.
This gathering underscores the commitment of both nations to deepen their defense ties and work towards seamless communication interoperability.
COMCASA, signed in 2018, has been pivotal in enabling the armed forces of India and the United States to share secure communications and ensure better coordination during joint operations and exercises.
The annual CCCB meetings are an integral part of this framework, allowing both sides to review progress, address challenges, and outline the way forward for enhanced compatibility and security.
The COMCASA agreement has been a cornerstone of the defense relationship between India and the United States, facilitating the sharing of encrypted communication systems and enhancing situational awareness during joint missions.
The CCCB meetings serve as a platform to review the implementation of COMCASA, ensuring that both nations are on track with their interoperability objectives.
Since the inception of these meetings in 2018, there has been noticeable progress in the way the two militaries communicate and coordinate.
Joint exercises such as the Malabar naval exercise, Yudh Abhyas, and Vajra Prahar have benefited from improved communication channels, resulting in more efficient and effective operations.
Beyond technical discussions, the CCCB meeting also provides an opportunity for both nations to reaffirm their commitment to a strong bilateral defense partnership.
The strategic dialogue during these sessions helps in aligning the defence policies and strategies of India and the United States, ensuring a coordinated approach to regional and global security challenges.
The defence partnership between India and the United States is underpinned by shared values and mutual interests in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
By enhancing communication interoperability, both nations are better equipped to respond to contingencies, conduct joint humanitarian assistance missions, and counter shared threats.
As the CCCB meeting progresses over the next few days, both delegations will work towards finalizing actionable plans and setting milestones for future collaboration.
The outcomes of this meeting are expected to further solidify the command and control capabilities of the two militaries, paving the way for more synchronized and effective joint operations.
The successful conclusion of the seventh CCCB meeting will mark another step forward in the enduring India-US defense partnership, contributing to greater stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
In conclusion, the CCCB meeting in New Delhi symbolizes the deepening defense ties between India and the United States, driven by a shared vision of enhanced interoperability and mutual security. As both nations continue to work together, the strategic partnership is set to achieve new heights, ensuring a more secure and cooperative future.
In a remarkable act of bravery and selflessness, Naib Subedar Manjeet Singh of the 338 Medium Regiment of the Indian Army, a national-level boxer, sacrificed his life to save a friend from drowning while on leave. Known for his dedication and courage, Naib Subedar Manjeet Singh exemplified the highest traditions of the Indian Army.
The tragic incident occurred when Naib Subedar Manjeet Singh, showcasing true camaraderie, plunged into the water to rescue his friend. Despite his heroic efforts, he could not pull himself out in time and ultimately sacrificed his life. His valiant actions have left an indelible mark on those who knew him and on the entire nation.
In recognition of his bravery and self-sacrifice, Naib Subedar Manjeet Singh was cremated with full military honors. His actions have been lauded as the epitome of the soldier’s creed, “Sewa Parmo Dharm” (Service Before Self).
The nation salutes Naib Subedar Manjeet Singh for his courage and dedication. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of his comrades and countrymen. Nb Sub Manjeet Singh, Amar rahe!
In a significant milestone for the Agnipath recruitment scheme, the 3rd batch of 914 Agniveers successfully completed their training and passed out from the Madras Regimental Centre in Wellington today.
The passing out parade was presided over by Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) and Colonel of The Madras Regiment.
Addressing the young Agniveers, Lt Gen Singh congratulated them on their tremendous achievement and welcomed them into the folds of the oldest and finest regiment of the Indian Army. He expressed confidence that the Agniveers would have a successful and professionally satisfying career with their battalions.
The Agnipath scheme, introduced last year, envisions enrolment of youths between 17.5 and 21 years of age for a four-year tenure, with an opportunity for 25% to be inducted into the regular cadre based on organizational requirements and performance.
Today’s passing out parade marks another significant step in the induction of Agniveers into the Indian Armed Forces under this transformative scheme aimed at making the forces younger and more tech-savvy.
An Indian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet crashed in a field near Shirasgaon village in Maharashtra’s Nashik district today. The pilot and co-pilot suffered injuries but managed to eject safely from the twin-seater aircraft before it crashed.
“The Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet crashed in a field near Shirasgaon village. The pilot and co-pilot have been rescued and are being treated for injuries,” a senior police officer stated.
The Sukhoi-30MKI is the frontline fighter jet of the Indian Air Force, with over 200 of these twin-engine, multi-role aircraft currently in operation across several squadrons in the country. Built by Russia’s Sukhoi Aviation Corporation, the jets are manufactured under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India.
This is the latest in a series of Sukhoi crashes reported in recent times. In August 2022, another Sukhoi-30 crashed in a paddy field in Assam after experiencing a technical malfunction, though the pilots ejected safely.
The fourth-generation fighter has been in service with the Indian Air Force for over two decades and has undergone multiple upgrades, with the MKI being the latest variant.
An investigation is underway to determine the cause of today’s crash in Nashik. The Air Force has ordered a court of inquiry to probe the incident.
In a significant move to advance the strategic capabilities of the Indian Army, Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi, Vice Chief of the Army Staff (VCOAS), visited the BrahMos Aerospace headquarters in Delhi.
The visit was aimed at discussing the futuristic requirements of the Indian Army and reviewing the ongoing efforts of BrahMos Aerospace in enhancing the country’s defence capabilities.
Lt Gen Dwivedi, known for his strategic foresight and commitment to modernization, spent considerable time interacting with the top brass of BrahMos Aerospace.
He appreciated the pioneering work done by the organization and emphasized the need for a higher degree of indigenization in the BrahMos Weapon Complex, in line with the Government of India’s guidelines to propel Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence.
During his visit, Lt Gen Dwivedi engaged in detailed discussions on the future requirements of the Indian Army. He highlighted the evolving nature of modern warfare and the need for advanced, reliable, and versatile weapon systems to maintain a strategic edge.
The Vice Chief underscored the importance of integrating cutting-edge technology and enhancing the operational capabilities of the BrahMos missile system to meet the dynamic security challenges faced by the nation.
The discussions also focused on the customization of the BrahMos missile system to suit the specific needs of the Indian Army.
This includes the development of advanced variants with enhanced range, precision, and lethality. Lt Gen Dwivedi stressed the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation to ensure that the Indian Army remains prepared to counter emerging threats effectively.
One of the key points emphasized by Lt Gen Dwivedi was the need for greater indigenization in the production of the BrahMos missile system.
He lauded BrahMos Aerospace for its ongoing efforts towards achieving higher self-reliance and urged the organization to accelerate these efforts. The Vice Chief highlighted that increasing the indigenous content in defence systems is crucial for reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and enhancing the strategic autonomy of the country.
Lt Gen Dwivedi also addressed the Indian defence industries working in collaboration with BrahMos Aerospace. He emphasized the need to enhance the production capacity of components and sub-systems to meet the growing demands of the Indian Armed Forces.
The Vice Chief highlighted that timely and efficient production is critical to ensuring that the military is well-equipped to handle any contingencies.
The visit by Lt Gen Dwivedi underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to the Government of India’s vision of Aatmanirbharta in defence.
The Vice Chief’s emphasis on indigenization and enhanced production capacity aligns with the national goal of building a robust and self-reliant defence industrial base.
BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between India and Russia, has been a cornerstone of India’s missile capabilities.
The BrahMos missile, known for its speed, precision, and versatility, is a key component of India’s strategic arsenal. With the increasing focus on indigenization, BrahMos Aerospace is expected to further enhance its role in bolstering India’s defence preparedness.
Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi’s visit to BrahMos Aerospace highlights the strategic importance of the BrahMos missile system in India’s defence strategy.
The detailed discussions on future requirements and the emphasis on indigenization and production enhancement reflect a forward-looking approach aimed at ensuring that the Indian Army remains equipped with state-of-the-art weapon systems.
As BrahMos Aerospace continues to innovate and enhance its capabilities, the collaboration between the Indian Army and the defence industry is set to reach new heights. This partnership is not only vital for meeting the immediate defence needs but also for achieving long-term self-reliance in defence production.
The commitment to Aatmanirbharta in defence, as reiterated by Lt Gen Dwivedi, is poised to propel India towards greater strategic autonomy and security.
The efforts of BrahMos Aerospace and the broader defence industry will play a crucial role in realizing this vision, ensuring that India remains prepared and resilient in the face of evolving security challenges.
