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BSF Jawan Kulwant Panna From Chattisgarh Dies in Road Accident Days After Return from Operation Sindoor

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Kulwant Panna, a 35-year-old jawan of the Border Security Force (BSF), lost his life in a tragic road accident on May 27, just days after returning home from active deployment in Operation Sindoor.

A resident of Bartoli village in Chhattisgarh’s Jashpur district, Panna was riding a scooter to visit his wife at her parental home in Duldula when the accident occurred near Ginabahar in the Kunkuri police station area. According to police, he lost control of his vehicle and collided with a culvert pillar, sustaining severe injuries to his head and leg.

He was initially taken to the Kunkuri Government Hospital by local villagers and his brothers, Jonic and Asit Panna. Due to the critical nature of his injuries, he was later shifted to Holy Cross Hospital, where he succumbed during treatment.

Kulwant Panna was serving with the 35th Battalion of the BSF in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. He had recently taken part in Operation Sindoor, a high-stakes mission launched in response to escalated tensions along the India-Pakistan border following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.

His untimely death has sent shockwaves through his home village and the wider security forces community. Several BSF personnel who were also on leave assembled at the hospital to pay their final respects.

The police have registered a case of unnatural death and an investigation is underway, according to Additional Superintendent of Police Anil Kumar Soni.

Panna was laid to rest in his native village of Bartoli, where he was accorded full military honours. He is remembered as a humble and dedicated soldier, known for his helpful nature and strong sense of duty. His loss is being deeply mourned by his family, comrades, and community.

Gold Medals For Ms. Anita and Subedar Narayana K at Asian Indoor Para Rowing Championship

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Indian para-athletes made a powerful statement at the 2025 Asian Indoor Para Rowing Championship in Pattaya, Thailand, clinching 17 medals on Day 2 alone, including seven golds. Among the standout performances were Ms. Anita, daughter of Naib Subedar Dhanna Ram Khichar and Subedar Narayana K, who won gold in the Women’s and Men’s PR3 Physical Disability categories, respectively.

Their victories were celebrated by Surg Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), who praised their determination and the institutions supporting their recovery. Both athletes underwent post-amputation rehabilitation at the Artificial Limb Centre (ALC) in Pune, where they were equipped with the innovative ‘ALCRowingFoot’—a custom-engineered prosthetic designed to support the rigorous ankle movements required in rowing.

Ms. Anita, daughter of Hony Nb Sub Dhanna Ram Khichar (Retd.), made headlines by securing her second gold medal of the championship, having already won the PR3 PD 500 meters event. Sub Narayana K’s win added to India’s growing reputation in the international para-rowing arena.

India’s medal sweep continued with golds from Gursewak Singh and Gouri Nanda in the Under-19 mixed 2km pair event, Aditya Ravindra Kedari and Harpreet Kaur in the Masters’ mixed pair (30-39), Alan Joshy in the Men’s Under-19 500m, and Paspula Krishna Rao in the Men’s Masters 50-59 lightweight 500m.

The ALC, established in 1944 to rehabilitate injured military personnel, has become a global leader in prosthetic innovation. Its development of the ‘ALCRowingFoot’ demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to sports rehabilitation. Designed to meet the unique biomechanical demands of rowing, the prosthetic has proven instrumental in enabling para-athletes to compete—and succeed—on international platforms.

The PR3 classification allows athletes with physical or visual impairments to compete using their legs, trunk, and arms, promoting inclusivity while requiring a high level of physical function. The success of India’s PR3 athletes at the championship underscores the significance of specialized training and equipment in adaptive sports.

India’s achievements in Pattaya highlight a larger narrative of national commitment to para-sports and the integration of advanced medical and technical support. Institutions like the ALC, under the guidance of the DGAFMS, are redefining rehabilitation and competitive potential for para-athletes, placing India at the forefront of global adaptive sports excellence.

2 Delhi Cops Reunited 223 Missing Children with Their Families: Know How They Did It

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With little more than faded photographs, faint clues, and unyielding resolve, two Delhi police officers have achieved the extraordinary—reuniting 223 missing children with their families over the past 11 months. Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASI) Rajdeep (35) and Nirdesh Panwar (38), both part of the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU), have spent months tracking children across eight states, overcoming language barriers, dead-end leads, and years-old cases.

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Source: The Times of India

Their relentless work across over 70 police stations in Delhi, and beyond—in Jammu, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Haryana—has brought long-separated families back together. Often starting with only a name or an old case file, they pieced together digital trails, combed through CCTV footage, and knocked on countless doors in search of the missing.

Their dedication earned them out-of-turn promotions from head constables to assistant sub-inspectors. Rajdeep has rescued 112 children, while Panwar has recovered 111.

“These officers were promoted out of turn as a recognition for their consistent work and the large number of successful recoveries,” said DCP (Shahdara) Prashant Priya Gautam.

Each day begins at 6am with a scan of national databases like CCTNS and ZIPNET for new reports and cold cases. Challenges are many—invalid phone numbers, relocated families, and even the lack of recent photos. “Language is often a barrier too,” said ASI Panwar, explaining how they adapt when working in unfamiliar states.

Once contact is established, they conduct ground visits, gather information on the child’s background, and begin the painstaking work of investigation. They analyze call records, dig through social media for clues, and review hours of CCTV footage. “Sometimes all it takes is one blurry image or a location tag to open up a case,” said ASI Rajdeep.

When digital leads fail, the officers rely on traditional methods—door-to-door searches, inquiries at local shelters, and assistance from NGOs and local police. “We’ve reviewed over 200 cameras for a single case. You’re often chasing a flicker of movement, a hint of a face. But that one frame can change everything,” said Rajdeep.

Some cases take days; others, years. One 14-year-old girl was found alone at a station bench in Jammu after the officers traced her train journey from Delhi. In another case, a girl missing since 2017 from MS Park was found this year in Saharanpur, seven years after vanishing. She was 15 then, 22 now.

“Each case is different—some kids ran away, others were trafficked or abducted. We never assume. Every child deserves the same effort,” said Panwar.

For these two officers, their own children serve as the constant reminder of the mission’s importance. “The moment when a parent hugs their child again… that’s what we work for. That’s what keeps us going,” said Rajdeep.

DRDO Signs Tech Transfer Pact with NIBE Ltd for Pinaka Rocket System Production

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In a major push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has signed a Licensing Agreement for Transfer of Technology (LAToT) with NIBE Limited, a Pune-based private company. The agreement, inked by DRDO’s Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), enables NIBE Limited to produce the Pinaka Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system and its associated Battery Command Post (BCP).

The Pinaka system, developed indigenously by DRDO for the Indian Army, is a vital component of India’s artillery capabilities. It can fire salvos of rockets with a range of up to 45 km in its Mark-I Enhanced version, and up to 90 km in the Mark-II Extended Range variant. The Guided Pinaka, successfully tested in late 2024, features a Trajectory Correction System that significantly improves accuracy, making it a formidable asset in modern warfare.

This technology transfer marks a pivotal moment in India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign, which emphasizes indigenous defence production and reducing dependence on imports. The deal also signals a broader shift towards involving private players in the defence sector. NIBE Limited joins the ranks of private firms like Solar Industries, which had previously contributed to successful Pinaka trials in 2020. The DRDO’s engagement with industry partners is aimed at enhancing production efficiency and meeting the operational demands of the Indian armed forces more swiftly.

Officials noted that the production of the Pinaka system by NIBE Limited is expected to create new job opportunities and support economic development. With defence manufacturing already contributing around 80,000 private sector jobs, the inclusion of new firms is expected to further stimulate industrial growth. By building a diversified defence manufacturing ecosystem, India also strengthens its position as a potential exporter of reliable and cost-effective military systems.

The Pinaka system stands out for its cost-effectiveness, estimated at ₹2.3 crore per unit, making it considerably more affordable than comparable global systems like the US-made M270, which costs around ₹19.5 crore. With ongoing technological upgrades, including integration of UAV support and navigation enhancements such as the Sigma 30 system previously supplied by Sagem, the Pinaka platform continues to evolve.

Defence analysts view this latest agreement as a strategic milestone that underlines India’s capability to design, develop, and deploy advanced weaponry independently. As DRDO continues to deepen its collaboration with the private sector, India is steadily moving toward greater strategic autonomy and defence export readiness in an increasingly complex global security environment.

4 Soldiers and 12 Terrorists Killed in Pakistan Operations Along Afghan Border

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In a series of military operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, the Pakistani military reported that four of its soldiers, including a young officer, and 12 militants were killed. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) claimed that the slain terrorists were part of groups allegedly backed by Indian agencies, once again raising regional security concerns.

According to ISPR, intelligence-led strikes were conducted in the Loralai and Kech districts of Balochistan on May 28, targeting alleged operatives of the so-called “Fitna al Hindustan” network. Four individuals were neutralised in Loralai, reportedly linked to two deadly attacks on civilians along the N-70 highway in 2024 and 2025. In Kech, another militant was killed.

In KP’s volatile North Waziristan, a late-night assault by militants on a security check post in Shawal was repelled. Pakistani forces killed six members of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which ISPR referred to as “Fitna al Khwarij,” labeling them as Indian proxies. The clash resulted in the deaths of Lieutenant Daniyal Ismail (24), Naib Subedar Kashif Raza (41), Lance Naik Fiaqat Ali (35), and Sepoy Muhammad Hameed (26).

The broader security context remains dire for Pakistan. According to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), the first quarter of 2025 saw a slight improvement in counterterrorism outcomes, with militant casualties outnumbering those of civilians and soldiers. Yet, KP and Balochistan continue to account for 98% of violence-related fatalities. If current trends persist, projections indicate that 2025 could become one of the deadliest years in Pakistan’s recent history.

From India’s perspective, the intensification of Pakistan’s internal operations and its repeated attribution of blame to India are being observed with caution. Indian security analysts note that Islamabad’s rhetoric often spikes during internal crises or geopolitical pressure. With Afghanistan’s destabilisation after the Taliban’s return in 2021 and cross-border insurgencies increasing, South Asia remains a volatile region where insurgency, proxy narratives, and state responses continue to complicate bilateral diplomacy.

While Islamabad mourns the loss of its soldiers and reinforces its internal resolve, New Delhi remains focused on bolstering border security and surveillance capabilities, wary of the potential spillover effects from Pakistan’s troubled western front.

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi Reviews Operational Preparedness in Sunderbani Sector

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Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited forward areas in the Sunderbani sector of Jammu & Kashmir today to assess the operational readiness of Indian Army units stationed near the Line of Control (LoC). The visit took place amid rising tensions in the region following the Indian Army’s recent offensive, Operation Sindoor, launched earlier this month.

During his inspection, General Dwivedi received detailed briefings from formation commanders on the prevailing security scenario and operational posture along the LoC. The commanders outlined the volatile situation that has emerged since Operation Sindoor, which was executed on May 7, 2025. The mission involved precision strikes on nine terrorist targets—four across the border in Pakistan and five within Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK)—crippling networks associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen. The operation was a retaliatory move following the deadly Pahalgam attack and has led to intensified cross-border shelling by Pakistan, resulting in 12 civilian casualties and the death of one Indian soldier in Poonch district.

General Dwivedi interacted with the troops deployed in the sector, commending their professionalism, courage, and resilience during and after Operation Sindoor. He highlighted the need for constant preparedness, stating, “The operational environment demands continuous vigilance and institutional resilience.” His remarks emphasized the importance of readiness and adaptability in light of evolving security threats.

The visit also reflected the Indian Army’s broader strategic focus on technology integration. As part of the Army’s ongoing “Year of Tech Absorption” initiative, General Dwivedi reiterated the critical importance of modernizing operational capabilities through advanced systems and tools. This aligns with his previous engagements, including his February 2025 visit to the Sir Creek region in Gujarat, where he assessed technology-led enhancements in border defense.

General Dwivedi’s visit included on-ground reviews of forward posts, live operational drills, and one-on-one interactions with soldiers, reinforcing high morale and operational cohesion at the tactical level. His presence in the conflict-prone sector signaled the Army’s strong commitment to national security and the protection of its borders under dynamic and challenging conditions.

Air Force Academy Marks 50 Years of Pre Flying Training Course with 100th Batch Celebration

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The Air Force Academy (AFA) in Hyderabad commemorated a historic milestone this week by celebrating 50 years of its Pre Flying Training Course (PFTC) alongside the graduation of its 100th batch. The event, held on May 29 at the AFA campus, marked a dual celebration of heritage and progress for one of India’s premier military training institutions.

Established in 1971, the AFA has served as the backbone of training for Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel, playing a pivotal role in grooming future pilots, ground duty officers, and technical professionals. The PFTC, an ab-initio program, is crucial for candidates joining the IAF’s Flying Branch through diverse entry streams such as the Combined Defence Services (CDS), Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT), National Cadet Corps (NCC), and Service Entry schemes. Notably, the program also inducts women officers, underlining the IAF’s progressive strides toward inclusivity.

Air Marshal Tejbir Singh AVSM VM, Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) at Headquarters Training Command, presided over the golden jubilee ceremony as the Chief Guest. A veteran air warrior with over 7,000 flying hours, Air Marshal Singh was instrumental in the induction of the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft and in setting up the IAF’s first Special Operations Squadron. Addressing the trainees, he stressed the importance of embracing emerging technologies and evolving combat strategies, urging cadets to pursue both personal growth and professional excellence.

The ceremony featured a group photograph of the 100th PFTC batch in their ceremonial light blue uniforms, capturing the spirit of the occasion. A formal memento presentation also took place, with the theme “Valedictory Function” prominently displayed, flanked by the national and IAF flags.

Spread over 6,700 acres and located 43 km from Hyderabad, the AFA has consistently upheld high standards in military training. The PFTC curriculum integrates military discipline with skill development through a broad spectrum of activities including yoga, weapon training, public speaking, field craft, and cultural programs. For flying branch cadets, the training progresses through three stages, culminating in commissioning and eventual deployment to operational squadrons. Ground duty trainees receive specialized instruction in key administrative and technical areas, equipping them for diverse roles across the force.

As the AFA celebrates its golden jubilee, it continues to embody the motto of “touching the sky with glory,” reinforcing its commitment to shaping the future of the Indian Air Force with pride, precision, and purpose.

7 BSF Women Led by AC Neha Bhandari Defend Border Posts for 3 Days, Force Pakistani Retreat

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In a landmark moment for women in uniform, seven female Border Security Force (BSF) officers led by Assistant Commandant Neha Bhandari held two forward border posts in the Akhnoor sector for three continuous days during Operation Sindoor, forcing Pakistani forces to abandon their forward locations. This unprecedented deployment marks the first instance of a female officer commanding a frontline post, with the Indian Army yet to induct women into such direct roles.

Also Read: BSF Assistant Commadant Neha Bhandari Awarded Commendation Disc by Army Chief for Gallantry in Operation Sindoor

Under AC Bhandari’s command, the team, dubbed “Seema Praharis,” maintained a strong defense despite intense cross-border fire. Among the seven officers were two veterans, Manjit Kour and Malkit Kour from Punjab, each with nearly 17 years of service. Positioned inside compact bunkers that doubled as observation posts, the seasoned pair formed the backbone of the unit.

The remaining four officers—Swapna Rath and Shampa Basak from West Bengal, Sumi Xess from Jharkhand, and Jyoti Banian from Odisha—had joined the BSF only in 2023. For them, Operation Sindoor posed a baptism by fire. Their resilience, however, reflected the effectiveness of BSF’s gender-inclusive training regime. All four, alongside their commander, stood firm under pressure, showcasing courage, composure, and professional excellence.

Neha Bhandari, who joined the BSF just three years ago, hails from a family rooted in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), with her mother still actively serving. Speaking about the operation, Bhandari revealed that senior male officers had offered the women an option to withdraw due to the risks involved. “I obviously declined. When we trained as soldiers, our regimen was the same as our male counterparts. This was our opportunity to prove we are just as capable,” she stated.

The BSF described India’s response to Pakistani aggression as “forceful and efficient,” with this all-women unit playing a key role in achieving tactical dominance in the Akhnoor sector. Their stand ensured that Pakistani forces were forced to vacate their forward defense positions, dealing a symbolic and strategic blow to cross-border hostilities.

This operation not only highlights the bravery of these seven officers but also marks a milestone in the evolving role of women in India’s defense forces, reinforcing the BSF’s commitment to gender parity and frontline readiness.

BSF Assistant Commadant Neha Bhandari Awarded Commendation Disc by Army Chief for Gallantry in Operation Sindoor

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In a ceremony underscoring valor and frontline leadership, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi presented the prestigious Commendation Disc to Assistant Commandant Neha Bhandari of the Border Security Force (BSF) Jammu for her outstanding bravery during Operation Sindoor. The honor was conferred in the presence of top military officials, reflecting the significance of her contributions to national defense.

Also Read: 7 BSF Women Led by AC Neha Bhandari Defend Border Posts for 3 Days, Force Pakistani Retreat

Neha Bhandari, a third-generation officer from Uttarakhand, earned the accolade for commanding a BSF company deployed at the forward Pargwal sector along the International Border in Akhnoor. Under her leadership, the BSF unit effectively silenced three hostile Pakistani posts, delivering a decisive response to cross-border aggression. Her outpost, situated just meters from Pakistani positions, was one of the most vulnerable during the conflict.

Operation Sindoor, launched in retaliation to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, has seen the BSF and Indian Army working in coordination to target and neutralize threats emanating from across the border. Official figures report that the BSF has so far destroyed 76 Pakistani border outposts, 42 forward defense locations, and three terrorist launch pads.

General Dwivedi, who took charge as the Army Chief on June 30, 2024, praised Neha’s courage and operational acumen, noting her role as a symbol of the increasing involvement and impact of women in India’s security forces. Her recognition highlights the BSF’s proud history of being India’s “first line of defense,” a reputation established during the 1971 war and reaffirmed through modern operations like Sindoor.

The ceremony came amid heightened tensions in Jammu and Kashmir following the Pahalgam attack, which claimed 26 lives, mostly Hindu pilgrims. The Indian security response, led by coordinated strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, has aimed to dismantle terror infrastructure and deter future attacks.

Neha Bhandari’s commendation is not only a personal milestone but also a powerful message of encouragement to women in uniform and a reaffirmation of the BSF’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding India’s borders, especially along the critical 190-kilometer stretch of the International Border in Jammu that includes the districts of Jammu, Samba, and Kathua.

India Fortifies Siliguri Corridor with Rafale Jets and S-400 Systems Amid Regional Tensions

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In a decisive strategic move, India has bolstered its military defenses in the Siliguri Corridor—commonly referred to as the ‘Chicken’s Neck’—amid rising concerns over growing ties between China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The deployment of advanced Rafale fighter jets and S-400 Triumph air defense systems signals India’s readiness to safeguard its critical northeastern gateway.

The Siliguri Corridor is a narrow land strip, just 20–22 kilometers wide at its thinnest point, that connects mainland India to its seven northeastern states. Its vulnerability has long made it a strategic concern, but recent developments have escalated Indian apprehensions. The inspection of a former airbase in Lalmonirhat, Bangladesh, by Chinese military officials has especially alarmed New Delhi, given the base’s proximity to the corridor.

Tensions further flared following provocative statements from Mohammed Yunus, the head of Bangladesh’s interim government. His administration’s growing alignment with China and Pakistan has amplified India’s strategic unease. The situation is compounded by Bangladesh’s recent military procurements, including 12 Bayraktar TB2 drones from Turkey and negotiations to acquire Pakistan-China-made JF-17 Thunder fighter jets.

India’s response has been swift and assertive. The Indian Army recently conducted high-intensity military drills in the Siliguri Corridor and deployed the S-400 air defense system, which is capable of intercepting multiple aerial threats at ranges of up to 400 kilometers. Additionally, Rafale fighter jets, stationed at Hasimara Air Base in West Bengal, have increased their patrol frequency in the region.

Last year’s reported incursion of a Bangladeshi Bayraktar drone near the India-Bangladesh border has also influenced India’s decision to tighten its air surveillance. The Indian Army has issued a strict directive stating that any unauthorized aerial vehicle entering Indian airspace will be immediately neutralized.

As regional geopolitics evolve rapidly, India’s latest military deployments in the Siliguri Corridor serve not only as a defensive measure but also as a warning. The message is clear: any encroachment near India’s strategic lifelines will be met with formidable resistance.