Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Command, conducted a significant visit to the Bombay Engineer Group and Centre, widely known as the Bombay Sappers, located in Kirkee. The visit underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to technological modernization under its “Decade of Transformation” initiative spanning from 2023 to 2032.
During the visit, Lt Gen Seth was received by the Commandant and provided with a comprehensive briefing on the latest training initiatives undertaken by the Centre. He reviewed the updated trade training workshops equipped with advanced tools, reflecting the unit’s efforts to keep pace with evolving battlefield requirements.
Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, #SouthernCommand, visited the Bombay Engineer Group and Centre, #BombaySappers at Kirkee. He was briefed by the Commandant on key training initiatives. The Army Commander reviewed the integration of state-of-the-art trade… pic.twitter.com/eJBmOWPnm9
— Southern Command INDIAN ARMY (@IaSouthern) June 1, 2025
A key highlight of the day was a live demonstration of a cutting-edge drone-based explosive delivery system. This innovation exemplifies the Army’s growing emphasis on incorporating unmanned aerial technologies to enhance precision and effectiveness in future combat scenarios.
In recognition of individual excellence, Lt Gen Seth presented on-the-spot Commendation Cards to several outstanding personnel, appreciating their dedication and urging all ranks to uphold high standards of professionalism and preparedness.
This visit also reinforces the Army’s alignment with the national goal of Aatmanirbhar Bharat by promoting self-reliance in defense technologies. The Bombay Sappers, with their rich legacy and engineering excellence, continue to serve as a critical pillar in the Indian Army’s journey towards becoming a modern, agile, and adaptive force.
In a proud display of discipline and achievement, the Indian Air Force (IAF) held a grand valedictory function at Air Force Station Begumpet on May 31 to commemorate the successful completion of three premier training programs: the 108th Advance Navigation Course (ANC), the 140th Ab-Initio Navigation Course, and the Weapon Systems Ab-Initio Stage-II Course.
The ceremony, hosted at the esteemed Navigation Training School (NTS) and Weapon Systems School (WSS), symbolized a significant milestone in the careers of young IAF officers and cadets. Dressed in pristine white uniforms, the graduating batch stood tall alongside senior officers and instructors, celebrating the culmination of months of rigorous academic and practical training.
Top performers were felicitated with trophies and awards, prominently displayed against a dignified backdrop bearing the IAF emblem and the words “Valedictory Function.” The event reflected the force’s enduring commitment to excellence, professionalism, and technological advancement in aviation and warfare.
The Navigation Training School, affectionately known as ‘TERNS,’ carries a legacy that dates back to 1946 when it was established as the Air Navigation School at the Royal Indian Air Force Station, Tambaram. The institution shifted to Begumpet in 1967 and has since been instrumental in shaping generations of navigators for the IAF. In March 2024, NTS celebrated its Platinum Jubilee, marked by seminars, air displays, and the release of a commemorative ‘Special Cover’ by Air Marshal R. Radhish, as noted by The Hindu.
The Weapon Systems School, another pillar of advanced IAF training, was inaugurated in recent years by the Chief of the Air Staff. The school is dedicated to equipping officers with the skills required to operate sophisticated weapon systems, keeping pace with the dynamic nature of modern aerial warfare.
The 2025 valedictory function continued a tradition of excellence at Begumpet, reminiscent of the 2021 ceremony for the 101st ANC and 133rd Ab-Initio Navigation Course, which was held under strict pandemic protocols. In previous years, trainees from the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and friendly foreign nations have also participated in these elite courses, reflecting the inclusive and strategic scope of IAF’s training.
This event comes at a time when the Indian Air Force is reinforcing its capabilities to counter evolving regional security challenges. With its motto “Touch The Sky With Glory,” the IAF remains steadfast in its mission to defend India’s airspace while investing in the future through world-class training programs.
The graduates of the 108th ANC, 140th Ab-Initio Navigation, and Weapon Systems Stage-II Course now join the ranks of the IAF’s operational cadre, ready to contribute to national security with precision, valor, and technological proficiency.
Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots routinely push their bodies and machines to the edge. Operating advanced fighter aircraft like the Su-30MKI, Rafale, and LCA Tejas, they endure rapid accelerations, tight turns, and high-altitude climbs that subject them to immense gravitational forces (G-forces).
In such extreme conditions, one piece of life-saving gear becomes absolutely essential — the G-suit, or anti-gravity suit. It’s not just a garment; it’s a scientific marvel that enables survival and performance in the skies.
A G-suit is a specially designed flight suit worn by military pilots and astronauts to protect the body from the harmful effects of high G-forces. It typically covers the lower body and includes inflatable bladders or fluid-filled compartments that press against the abdomen and legs.
These suits counteract the natural downward pull of gravity on blood flow during sharp maneuvers, preventing a potentially fatal condition called G-LOC (G-force-induced Loss of Consciousness).
G-Suit.
The Danger of G-Forces
G-forces are experienced during rapid acceleration, deceleration, or tight aerial turns. In high-performance aircraft, pilots often encounter forces up to 9G, meaning their body weight feels nine times heavier than usual. Under such pressure, blood naturally drains from the brain toward the lower limbs, risking a condition called G-LOC (G-force-induced Loss of Consciousness). Symptoms can escalate from greyout and tunnel vision to complete blackout—potentially fatal in the middle of a flight mission.
Image showing the effect of G-Force.
The Science of G-Forces
During fast aerial maneuvers, pilots can experience up to 9G, meaning their body feels nine times heavier than normal. At such force levels:
Blood is pulled away from the brain to the lower extremities.
This causes greyout, tunnel vision, or blackout.
If unchecked, it can result in complete loss of consciousness (G-LOC) — a deadly situation mid-flight.
The G-suit’s compression technology prevents this by keeping blood circulating to the brain even under intense acceleration.
Here is a video showing the fatality of 9G force for a few seconds:
Source: New York Post
How G-Suits Work?
Modern G-suits are integrated with sensors that inflate air bladders as G-forces increase. This external pressure on the legs and abdomen:
Keeps blood from pooling in the lower body,
Maintains blood pressure to the brain,
Works alongside Anti-G Straining Maneuvers (AGSM) — a technique where pilots tense their muscles and regulate breathing to maintain consciousness.
Together, the G-suit and pilot’s training act as a dual shield against high-G trauma.
Here is a video explanation:
Source: Proportion-Air, Inc.
Why Indian Air Force Pilots Depend on G-Suits?
The key reasons of G-Suits being critical for the IAF are:
Combat aircraft like Rafale and Su-30MKI perform high-speed, high-G turns.
Training exercises and real combat both involve extended high-G exposure.
G-suits improve survivability, combat efficiency, and endurance during prolonged missions.
They form part of a comprehensive pilot life-support system that includes oxygen masks, helmets, and pressure suits.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in G-Suit.
Indigenous G-Suit Development in India
India has made remarkable strides in developing its own indigenous G-suit technology:
The Defence Bio-Engineering & Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL), a unit under DRDO, has designed G-suits for aircraft like MiG-29, Mirage 2000, and LCA Tejas.
These suits are:
Flame-retardant,
Made with thermo-resistant materials,
Designed to enhance G-tolerance by 1 to 1.5 G,
Tailored for tropical and subcontinental conditions.
The move from imported to Make in India G-suits reflects India’s drive toward self-reliance in aerospace technology.
Global Standards vs. India: How IAF G-Suits Compare
While the US Air Force (USAF), Royal Air Force (RAF), and Russian Aerospace Forces use advanced G-suit systems, India stands out for its commitment to indigenization. Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, the IAF now has:
Customized, locally manufactured G-suits,
Faster access to maintenance and upgrades,
Reduced dependency on foreign vendors.
This not only enhances combat readiness but also supports the Indian defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The Future of G-Suits in India
India is already planning the next generation of G-suits, as evidenced by DEBEL’s R&D initiatives:
Smart fabrics that adjust compression automatically based on body signals,
Biometric sensors to monitor heart rate, oxygen saturation, and fatigue,
Real-time health feedback sent to flight command systems.
Such intelligent flight gear could dramatically improve pilot safety, situational awareness, and mission effectiveness in the years ahead.
Conclusion
The G-suit is more than military apparel — it’s a sophisticated life-support system that protects IAF pilots in some of the most punishing environments known to man. As India strengthens its air defence and aerospace capabilities, innovations in G-suit technology exemplify the powerful intersection of science, engineering, and national security.
With homegrown expertise and futuristic vision, India ensures that its fighter pilots remain safe, sharp, and sovereign in the skies they defend.
In a significant crackdown on an international cyber fraud network, Delhi Police have arrested two individuals with alleged Chinese links for duping a retired Indian Army colonel of ₹41.45 lakh under the guise of high returns from digital gold trading. The arrests were made in southwest Delhi, following an extensive investigation that tracked the digital trail to a hotel in Ahmedabad.
The accused, identified as Indra Kumar Sahani and Rahim Khan, allegedly operated a sophisticated, multi-layered fraud scheme involving mule bank accounts, remote access tools, and cryptocurrency. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Surendra Choudhary, Khan was in direct contact with Chinese nationals through a messaging app and coordinated the operations by gathering account holders from across India into hotel rooms in Ahmedabad.
Once recruited, these individuals’ devices and SIM cards were linked with bank accounts through which illicit transfers were made. Foreign-based scammers were granted remote access to these accounts via specially installed apps, facilitating seamless fund movement without alerting Indian authorities.
The fraud came to light after a retired army colonel residing in Vasant Kunj filed a complaint. He was initially approached on social media and lured into investing in a fake online platform that promised lucrative returns through gold trading in US dollars. After seeing rapid, artificial profits on his fake account, he invested ₹41.45 lakh in total. However, when he attempted to withdraw what appeared to be ₹1 crore in returns, he was asked to pay an additional ₹31.5 lakh as tax, which raised his suspicions and led to the police complaint.
Following digital forensics and surveillance, a police team raided the hotel in Ahmedabad and arrested Sahani. Three smartphones containing incriminating evidence were recovered. Based on his interrogation, Rahim Khan was also arrested, and two more devices were seized.
Police investigations revealed that Sahani initially opened a personal bank account, but later opened nine more current accounts, which he sold to the syndicate for commission. The accused reportedly converted the stolen money into USDT cryptocurrency and transferred it abroad to evade enforcement scrutiny.
Authorities say the case has unearthed a wider cyber fraud network with transnational reach and that further investigation is underway to identify more victims and collaborators.
In a prompt and coordinated response to severe flooding across Manipur, the Indian Army and Assam Rifles launched Operation Jal Rahat 2 to provide urgent relief and evacuate stranded civilians. Nearly 800 people were rescued across multiple localities in Imphal East and West districts.
Equipped with Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and rescue boats, Assam Rifles troops reached some of the worst-affected areas, including Porompat, Wankhei, Sanjenthong, Palace Compound, New Checkon, Khurai Heikrumakhong Heinang, Soibam Leikai, Wangkhei Angom Leikai, and Nongmeibung Raj Bari.
Two major rescue columns were activated. The first, based in Singjamei, operated in Wangkhei Khunou from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., rescuing 193 people, including 64 men, 85 women, and 44 children. The second column operated in Heikrumakhong between 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., rescuing 182 individuals—35 men, 90 women, and 57 children.
An additional 408 people, including 137 men, 179 women, and 92 children, were evacuated from other submerged areas. Among the rescued were also 10 to 20 elderly and differently abled individuals.
All evacuees were relocated to safer areas with access to clean drinking water, food supplies, and immediate medical aid.
In a critical intervention, Assam Rifles also responded to a request from the Director of All India Radio (AIR) Imphal and evacuated the AIR office premises, which had been inundated.
The operation was conducted in intense flood conditions, with troops navigating submerged areas using buoyant rescue boats. Authorities have confirmed that the situation is now under control.
The Delhi High Court has upheld the dismissal of Lieutenant Samuel Kamalesan, a Christian officer in the Indian Army, who was removed from service for refusing to participate in religious rituals at his regiment’s temple and gurdwara. The Court ruled that his actions amounted to indiscipline as he placed personal religious beliefs above lawful commands from his superiors.
A division bench of Justices Navin Chawla and Shalinder Kaur held that while individuals in the armed forces are free to practice their religion, military discipline and command structure require certain duties to be performed regardless of personal beliefs. “While Regiments in our Armed Forces may historically bear names associated with religion or region, this does not undermine the secular ethos of the institution,” the Court observed. It added that religious rituals and war cries, even if they appear religious to outsiders, serve to motivate and unify troops.
Lt Kamalesan, commissioned in 2017, was assigned to a Sikh regiment and reportedly refused to enter the sanctum sanctorum during regimental religious parades. He stated that doing so would compromise his Christian faith and also risk offending the sentiments of his Sikh troops. He maintained that his relationship with his men remained strong despite his stance.
However, the Army claimed that his persistent refusal to comply, even after consultations with clergy and superior officers, harmed unit cohesion and morale. Kamalesan was dismissed in 2021.
The Court emphasized that the matter was not one of religious freedom but of obeying a lawful military order. It pointed to Section 41 of the Army Act, which penalizes disobedience of superior orders. The bench noted that the officer had not disputed the order and that his refusal constituted a breach of military discipline.
The judges stated, “While, to a civilian, this may appear a bit harsh… the standard of discipline required for the Armed Forces is different.” They added that courts should refrain from interfering with military decisions unless they are clearly arbitrary.
The Court supported the Army’s decision to avoid a court-martial in order to prevent unnecessary controversy and to protect the secular image of the armed forces.
Senior Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, along with Advocates Abhishek Jebaraj, A Reyna Shruti, Shourya Desgupta, and Shivani Sagar Kalra represented Lt Kamalesan. Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma and other government lawyers appeared for the Union of India.
The prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, is set to host its much-anticipated Passing Out Parade (POP) for the Spring Term 2025 on 14 June 2025. This grand event marks the culmination of rigorous training for the Gentleman Cadets (GCs), transforming them into commissioned officers of the Indian Army.
The Passing Out Parade is the zenith of the IMA’s Spring Term, symbolizing the dedication, discipline, and relentless effort of the cadets over months of rigorous training. These cadets, hailing from diverse backgrounds across the country, have endured a challenging regimen designed to mold them into dynamic military leaders, equipped with the skills to serve and protect the nation.
The Grand Ceremony
The POP is steeped in tradition and military decorum, making it one of the most awaited and celebrated events in the Indian Armed Forces calendar. Here’s what to expect:
Commandant’s Address: The event begins with an inspiring address by the IMA Commandant, emphasizing the importance of service, valor, and integrity.
March Past and Sword of Honour Presentation:
The Gentleman Cadets will march with precision and pride, reflecting their months of intense drill practice.
The Sword of Honour, awarded to the best all-around cadet, will be presented, highlighting exceptional leadership, discipline, and academic performance.
Oath of Allegiance: The cadets will take the Oath of Allegiance, pledging their unwavering commitment to the nation and the Constitution of India.
Piping Ceremony: The most emotional moment of the day, as proud parents and instructors pin the ranks on the shoulders of the newly commissioned officers.
Antim Pag: The iconic final step, or Antim Pag, across the Chetwode Hall’s threshold, symbolizes the transition from cadets to commissioned officers.
Witnessing Tradition and Valor
The IMA’s sprawling parade ground will resonate with the rhythmic beats of the military band, the synchronized steps of the GCs, and the enthusiastic cheers of families and dignitaries. It is a day filled with pride, where tears of joy and a sense of accomplishment blend seamlessly with the spirit of patriotism.
The Journey to the POP
The journey of a Gentleman Cadet at the IMA is a testament to resilience and determination. The cadets undergo comprehensive training, including:
Physical and Tactical Training: Ensuring readiness for combat situations.
Academic Excellence: Covering military strategy, leadership, and international relations.
Ethical and Moral Grooming: Developing officers with a strong moral compass.
Every aspect of their training is meticulously designed to prepare them for the challenges of modern warfare and leadership in dynamic environments.
A Historic Day for Families and the Nation
For the families of the cadets, the day is an emotional milestone, reflecting the culmination of their sons’ hard work and commitment. For the nation, it is a reminder of the dedication of its youth who choose the path of service and sacrifice.
Livestream and Coverage
To ensure that citizens across the country can partake in this grand occasion, the event will be live-streamed on official Army channels. Updates will also be shared on social media platforms, allowing millions to witness the proud moment.
As the countdown begins for the IMA Passing Out Parade on 14 June 2025, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation and pride. This is not just an event but a testament to the resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment of the young officers who will soon stand as the sentinels of India’s sovereignty.
Stay tuned as these young men take their final step—Antim Pag—towards a life of honor, duty, and sacrifice.
Iran has significantly expanded its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, pushing global nuclear tensions to a new high, according to a confidential report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) obtained by the BBC. The report reveals that Iran now possesses over 400kg of uranium enriched to 60% purity—just short of weapons-grade and nearly 50% more than what it held three months ago.
The IAEA warned that Iran’s enrichment rate over the past quarter was equivalent to producing roughly one bomb’s worth of fissile material every month. While Iran maintains its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes, the watchdog stated it could no longer verify this claim due to Tehran’s refusal to allow full access to its nuclear facilities and its failure to answer longstanding questions about undeclared sites.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi described the development as “of serious concern.” The findings are expected to escalate pressure from the US, UK, France, and Germany for the IAEA board to declare Iran in violation of its nuclear non-proliferation commitments.
Reacting to the report, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that Iran is “totally determined” to develop nuclear weapons, asserting that such high levels of enrichment have no civilian use. Iran’s chief negotiator, Abbas Araghchi, rejected the accusation, saying nuclear weapons are “unacceptable” to Tehran.
The report also highlights evidence of past covert nuclear work at three sites—Lavisan-Shian, Varamin, and Turquzabad—adding to the distrust surrounding Iran’s intentions. Meanwhile, despite ongoing US-Iran negotiations in Vienna aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear deal, there has been no indication that Iran is slowing its enrichment efforts.
Recent statements by top advisors to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have further alarmed Western diplomats. Both Ali Larijani and Kamal Kharazi hinted that Iran might reconsider its stance against nuclear weapons if international threats increase.
With the IAEA board set to meet in the coming days, diplomatic sources suggest a UN Security Council referral could follow, raising the stakes in an already volatile region.
Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Western Command, conducted a comprehensive review of the operational readiness of the Kharga Corps and Vajra Corps during his visit to Ambala on Saturday. The inspection reaffirmed the Army’s steadfast focus on maintaining a high level of preparedness along the strategically significant Western Front.
— Western Command – Indian Army (@westerncomd_IA) May 31, 2025
Lt Gen Katiyar commended the troops for their exemplary execution of Operation Sindoor, a recent high-precision strike targeting terrorist infrastructure. The operation marked a milestone in India’s counter-terrorism strategy, leveraging real-time UAV surveillance, robotic mules, and advanced battlefield integration. Applauding the professionalism and resilience of the soldiers, the General noted that their performance exemplified the Army’s evolution in modern warfare and its readiness to meet emerging challenges.
The Kharga Corps, stationed in Ambala since 1985, holds a legacy of decisive action dating back to the 1971 Indo-Pak War, where it played a critical role in operations across Khulna, Jessore, and Faridpur. The Vajra Corps, also part of the Western Command, remains a key pillar in India’s defense posture along the Pakistan border, having seen action in multiple conflicts, including the Kargil War of 1999.
The visit comes amid a sweeping modernization initiative in the Indian Army, with plans underway to induct 1,770 Future Ready Combat Vehicles by 2030, aimed at phasing out the aging T-72 tanks. The Army is also deploying cutting-edge technologies, such as Multi-Utility Legged Equipment—robotic mules fitted with thermal imaging, electro-optical sensors, and small arms—to boost surveillance, logistics, and operational capability in challenging terrains.
A ceremonial event during the review featured demonstrations of unit cohesion and morale, culminating in a group photograph with troops from both corps. The backdrop prominently featured “Op Sindoor,” reflecting the mission’s significance in the Indian Army’s ongoing campaign against cross-border terrorism.
Headquartered in Chandimandir, Haryana, the Western Command remains central to India’s military strategy, particularly given the historical volatility of the western borders. Lt Gen Katiyar, a seasoned leader and former Director General of Military Operations, emphasized the necessity of operational excellence, technological advancement, and strategic foresight to ensure lasting stability and security in the region.
The Indian Army’s elite Battle Axe Division, operating under the Southern Command, has successfully wrapped up a demanding field firing exercise in the arid expanse of Rajasthan. The drill, titled ‘Silent Sands, Roaring Tanks,’ was a display of coordinated mechanised operations, tactical maneuvers, and live-fire drills designed to test and enhance the division’s combat proficiency in desert warfare scenarios.
— Konark Corps INDIAN ARMY (@KonarkCorps) May 31, 2025
Renowned for its historic role in the Battle of Laungwala during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the Battle Axe Division once again demonstrated its legacy of resilience and tactical excellence. The exercise focused on executing precise firepower delivery and seamless unit coordination, reinforcing the Army’s preparedness to respond to a range of operational situations in difficult terrain.
This field exercise aligns with the Indian Army’s ongoing ‘Year of Transformation’ initiative, which seeks to modernize and indigenize operational capabilities. As part of this transformation, the Army has recently incorporated advanced military technologies, including tethered drones for surveillance and state-of-the-art tank-driving simulators to enhance training efficiency and battlefield readiness.
The Mechanised Infantry Regiment, consisting of 27 battalions, formed a vital component of the exercise, underlining its strategic role in rapid armoured deployment and integrated battle group formations. Their performance during the exercise showcased the regiment’s combat agility and ability to adapt swiftly to evolving operational challenges.
Through exercises like ‘Silent Sands, Roaring Tanks,’ the Indian Army reaffirms its focus on maintaining high levels of combat readiness, fostering jointness across commands, and strengthening its deterrent posture in diverse terrains across the country.
