Sainik 1-15 November.pdf

On front cover: Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman at the head of the ANC crest along with Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Admiral (Retd) DK Joshi and

Commander-in-Chief Andaman & Nicobar Command Vice Admiral Bimal Verma on her visit to Andaman & Nicobar Command in Port Blair on October 19, 2017.

Since 1909

The journal of India’s Armed Forces published every fortnight in thirteen languages including Hindi & English on behalf of Ministry of Defence. It is not necessarily an organ for the expression of the Government’s defence policy. The published items represent the views of respective writers and correspondents.

BIRTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS4

10

India and France to strengthen Bilateral Defence Cooperation…

RM Visits Andaman & Nicobar Command

8Raksha Mantri’s

Statement at 4th…6Naval Commanders’ Conference held

12 Commissioning of INS Kiltan…14 Visit of Raksha Mantri to CVRDE…16 RRM visits Ordnance, Vehicle…17 Navika Sagar Parikrama -…21 WAC Station Commanders’…22 Interview of Lt Gen AK Bhatt…24 71st Infantry Day Celebrations26 IAF Landing Operations on…28 Standard Presented to 47…34 Chakravyuh

Regulars

35 Armed Forces Panorama

18Exercise Indra-2017

In This Issue

(Initially published as FAUJI AKHBAR)Vol. 64 q No 21

10 - 24 Kartika, 1939 (Saka)1-15 November 2017

Our Correspondents DELHI: Col Aman Anand; Capt DK Sharma VSM; Wg Cdr Anupam Banerjee; Manoj Tuli; Nampibou Marinmai; Ved Pal; Divyanshu Kumar; Photo Editor: K Ramesh; ALLAHABAD: Gp Capt BB Pande; BENGALURU: Shivaram Pailoor; CHANDIGARH: Pradip Dasgupta; CHENNAI: T Shanmugam; GANDHINAGAR: Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman; GUWAHATI: Lt Col Suneet Newton; IMPHAL: Lt Col Ajay Kumar Sharma; JAMMU: Lt Col Manish Mehta; JAIPUR: Lt Col Manish Ojha; KOCHI: Cdr Sridhar E Warrier ; KOHIMA: Col Chiranjeet Konwer; KOLKATA: Wg Cdr SS Birdi; Dipannita Dhar; LUCKNOW: Ms Gargi Malik Sinha; MUMBAI: Cdr Rahul Sinha; Narendra Vispute; NAGPUR: Wg Cdr Samir S Gangakhedkar; PUNE: Mahesh Iyengar; SECUNDERABAD: B Satheesh Kumar; SHILLONG; SRINAGAR: Col Rajesh Kalia; TEZPUR: Lt Col Sombit Ghosh; THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ms Dhanya Sanal K; UDHAMPUR: Col NN Joshi; VISAKHAPATNAM: Cdr CG Raju.

Published by: Ms Mattu JP Singh Addl DG (Media & Communication)Nungsanglemba Ao, Director (PR)

Directorate of Public Relations, South Block, Ministry of Defence, New Delhi-110011

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Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman received the French

Minister for the Armed Forces, Ms Florence Parly, in South Block on October 27, 2017. Minister Parly visited India from October 26-28, 2017 on her first official visit as the French Minister for the Armed Forces.

The Ministers reviewed ongoing initiatives to further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation as a key pillar of the strategic partnership between India and France. They also discussed regional and international developments of mutual interest.

A range of measures to expand military to military ties, including enhancing the scope of their joint exercises, in particular the VARUNA naval exercise scheduled in early 2018, were agreed upon. Both countries will also actively explore additional measures to facilitate operational level interactions between their respective armed forces.

India and France to strengthen Bilateral Defence Cooperation as a key pillar of their strategic partnership

The Ministers reiterated their strong intention to further expand bilateral cooperation on counter- terrorism. Recognising the growing significance of maritime security in

the Indo-Pacific and the need for greater maritime domain awareness, India and France will further expand information sharing arrangements building upon the Technical

Defence Minister of France Ms Florence Parly inspecting the Tri-Services Guard of Honour at South Block Lawns, New Delhi on October

27, 2017.

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman receiving the Defence Minister of France Ms Florence Parly at South Block, New Delhi on October 27, 2017.

4 Sainik Samachar November 1-15, 2017

Arrangement on Exchange of White Shipping information signed earlier this year.

The two Ministers also comprehensively reviewed developments in defence equipment and industry cooperation, where France is a major partner. They agreed to strongly support projects for defence manufacturing under the Make in India initiative as well as promote defence technology and R&D cooperation.

- Mattu JP Singh

pix: Vijay Kumar and GD Mehra

Defence Minister of France Ms Florence Parly paying homage to the martyrs at Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate, New Delhi on October 27, 2017.

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman and Defence Minister of France Ms Florence Parly at a delegation level meeting at South Block, New Delhi on October 27, 2017.

5November 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar

Raksha Mantri Shrimati Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the Naval

Leadership on October 26, 2017 during the Naval Commanders’ Conference held at New Delhi. This was the second edition of this year’s bi-annual Naval Commanders’ Conference.

At the very outset, the Raksha Mantri complimented all personnel of the Indian Navy for securing the maritime interests of the nation. Taking note of the recent developments in our maritime neighbourhood, she emphasised the need for the Indian Navy to be strong at sea, and be ever ready and vigilant to counter any challenges in the maritime domain.

The Raksha Mantri acknowledged the high operational tempo maintained by the Navy in the last one year through regular deployment of ships, submarines and aircraft from the South China Sea and Sea of Japan in the East to the Persian Gulf and the Atlantic Ocean in the West and the shores of Australia in the South including the focused efforts to deter piracy attempts off the Gulf of Aden. Participation in a number of bilateral exercises and the unprecedented

Naval Commanders’ Conference held

success of the Exercise MALABAR with the US and the Japanese Navy earlier this year were lauded by the Raksha Mantri.

Recognising the lead taken by Indian Navy in indigenisation and self-reliance, the Raksha Mantri stated that it is the collective responsibility of Service Headquarters, the Ministry and the Industry to promote a more vibrant ecosystem percolating down to the

MSMEs, to encourage development of equipment and systems in India and to reduce import dependence in the Defence sector.

She took note of the critical capability shortfalls that the Navy is facing in ship-borne multi-role helicopters, conventional submarines and mine counter measure vessels, which need urgent redressal to maintain the combat edge of the Navy. The Raksha Mantri


assured the Commanders’ that these issues were being given due impetus and efforts were in hand to mitigate these shortcomings at the earliest.

The Raksha Mantri also commended the efforts of the Navy to constructively engage with the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) littorals to build their capacities and enhance their

capabilities. She also mentioned the initiatives taken by the Indian Navy to impart practical training for naval personnel from IOR littoral nations on a regular basis. Institutionalising a full-fledged regional-forum to help find collective solutions to matters maritime in the IOR and facilitate projection of India’s and Indian

Navy’s strategic and operational vision to a wider regional and global audience through the ‘Goa Maritime Conclave’ to be held early next month was also praised by the Minister. She further stated that MILAN 2018 at Port Blair early next year would be an excellent forum to get the littoral Navies on a common platform to discuss regional maritime issues and security challenges.

Concluding her address the Raksha Mantri stated that maritime interests of a nation have a vital relationship with its economic growth and these shall be protected at all costs by ensuring a strong and credible Indian Navy.

The Naval Commanders’ Conference held deliberations wherein the top-level leadership of Navy reviewed major operational, training and administrative activities undertaken in the last six months. The conference also reviewed IN’s readiness to deploy over the entire range of missions in the maritime domain (the new Mission-based Deployment Concept).

- Capt DK Sharma

pix: Naresh Kumar


Following is the full text of the statement at 4th ASEAN Defence

Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) in Philippines on October 24, 2017.

Thank you Mr Chairman.

Your Excellency Delfin Negrillo Lorenzana, Secretary of National Defence, Republic of Philippines

Fellow Ministers, Ladies and Gentlemen,

ASEAN occupies pride of place in Asia’s institutional architecture. The centrality of ASEAN has served as an anchor of stability in the region. For us in India, ASEAN’s continuance in this role is vitally important.

Indeed, India’s relationship with the ASEAN is a central pillar of our Act East Policy. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has noted, this is at the core of our dream of an Asian Century.

We also support greater ASEAN unity, in spirit and in purpose. ASEAN states have taken the lead in steering effective functioning of successful regional groupings such as the East Asia Summit and ADMM Plus.

Establishing this inclusive dialogue mechanism on defence and security issues under the aegis of ADMM Plus between ASEAN and its dialogue partners has laid down a strong foundation of trust and confidence.

In a short span of time, the ADMM-Plus has emerged as a credible and effective platform which has forged practical co-operation among the armed forces of member countries in key areas. In doing so, we have been guided by the principles of consensus, transparency and mutual respect for each other’s priorities and sensitivities. These principles should continue to be the basis for our future endeavours.

Raksha Mantri’s Statement at 4th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus)

Ladies and gentlemen,

India has taken active part in all ADMM Plus mechanisms and contributed effectively to their success. A shining manifestation of our focus on practical co-operation and jointmanship was the Force 18 combined Field Training Exercise on Humanitarian Mine Action and Peace Keeping Operations organised in Pune, India last year, which witnessed enthusiastic participation from nearly 350 defence personnel from member countries.

This year, India has taken on the co-chairmanship of the 3rd cycle of Experts’ Working Group-Military Medicine (EWG-MM) along with Myanmar. We will take forward the work done by earlier co-chairs, Singapore, Japan, Russia and Thailand by deepening our engagement in the area of medical operations especially in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions.

I wish to underline India’s commitment to actively engage in the EWG process, and contribute effectively to initiatives by our other ADMM Plus partners.

Colleagues,

The global strategic and

security situation is constantly evolving and has thrown up fresh and serious challenges. The defence and security scenario in our shared region has also witnessed significant changes recently. Our countries now need to simultaneously prepare for traditional (military) and non-traditional threats.

The nuclear and missile tests conducted by DPRK, in violation of its international commitments, have triggered serious concern. India has deplored these tests. We remain concerned about the proliferation of nuclear and missile technologies which has adversely impacted India’s national security and that of the entire region. It is important that DPRKs’ proliferation linkages are investigated and those who have supported its nuclear and missile programme are held accountable.

Terrorism and radicalization pose one of the most immediate and serious security challenges to our societies. I wish to commend our host the Philippines for resolutely addressing the serious threat posed by terrorists in the southern part of the country and reiterate India’s zero tolerance for terrorism anywhere and under any circumstances. There are no good terrorists.


Terrorism is now a trans-national phenomena which requires strong collective action by all members of the global community. New developments in Social Media and Cyberspace have expanded the threat, as these are exploited by terrorists to develop less visible but lethal ways and means of manipulating minds of the people.

The transnational activism of terrorist groups, the spectre of returning foreign fighters and the conduct of irresponsible states that provide safe havens, funding and even encouragement to terrorist groups all need to be addressed together and comprehensively. Terrorism anywhere is a threat everywhere.

India has taken resolute measures to fight the scourge of terrorism from across its borders. We fully recognize the role of joint mechanisms with our partners and the role of international and regional forums in fighting this menace. The recent, BRICS Summit Declaration condemning all forms of terrorism and identifying a number of terrorist organisations engaged in dastardly acts was a positive step. India believes that ADMM Plus provides a forum for defence ministers of the region to address the critical issue of terrorism collectively in all its forms

and manifestations. We should be clear and unequivocal in our condemnation of terrorism.

Maritime security continues to be another key concern. India supports freedom of navigation, overflight and commerce throughout the region. Nations should resolve maritime disputes peacefully and in accordance with international law. We support a rules based order for oceans and sea that is critical for the continued growth and development of the Indo-Pacific region.

Given the occurrence of rapid climate change and natural disasters, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) is another area that will need continued and focussed attention from all of us. India fully supports the implementation of various initiatives undertaken by the forum. India is also increasingly shouldering its responsibilities in this area. We have emerged as first responders in HADR situations in the region on numerous occasions. India has also placed its capabilities at the disposal of our partners, and we continue to build regional capacities to deal with natural and humanitarian disasters.

Mr. Chairman, distinguished colleagues,

Capacity-building among the ASEAN countries to addressing all

these shared security challenges needs to be accelerated. Expert Working Groups (EWGs) have proved to be an important cog in the ADMM wheel and have served us well in the identified areas. They can do more in terms of capacity building.

We have had detailed and comprehensive discussions on “Regional security Architecture” under the umbrella of East Asia Summit workshops. A number of concepts and ideas have been proposed by the member countries. India has also actively taken part in these workshops and put forward its Proposal of “A Dialogue-Centered Asia-Pacific Security Architecture”. We share the common view that we need to continue discussions for strengthening regional security architecture whilst keeping ASEAN centrality at its core.

I also whole-heartedly welcome annual meetings of the ADMM Plus instead of biennial meetings. This would lead to added opportunities to develop co-operative mechanisms capable of delivering tangible outcomes. Operationally, we also hope that there would be greater complementarity and synergy with other forums, especially the EAS.

Let me conclude by expressing India’s deep commitment and continued contribution for the realisation of the objectives set by this august forum. We wish Philippines all the very best for the upcoming Summits.

This is my first foreign visit since taking over as Defence Minister of India last month. I look forward to exchange views on practical cooperation and new learnings from my more experienced Ministerial colleagues.

Thank you!- Mattu JP Singh


Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman on her visit to cellular jail, paying respect to Veer Savarkar at Andaman and Nicobar island on October 19, 2017.

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman paying homage to the Air Force personnel & their families who lost lives during Tsunami in

Car Nicobar Island on October 19, 2017.

RM Visits Andaman & Nicobar Command

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman visited Andaman &

Nicobar Command from October 18-19, 2017. The Raksha Mantri was received at INS Utkrosh by Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Admiral (Retd) DK Joshi and Commander-in-Chief Andaman & Nicobar Command Vice Admiral Bimal Verma. On arrival, she was accorded a Joint Services Guard of Honour by the troops of Andaman & Nicobar Command. Subsequently, during her visit to the Headquarters Andaman & Nicobar Command, the Raksha Mantri was given a comprehensive brief on

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman being received by Commander-in-Chief Andaman & Nicobar Command Vice Admiral Bimal Verma on her arrival at Port Blair on October 18, 2017.


Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman celebrating Diwali with Air Force personnel at air base in Car Nicobar under Andaman &

Nicobar Command on October 19, 2017.

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman visited Navy Component and Coast Guard base under Andaman & Nicobar Command in Port Blair on October 19, 2017.

the security environment and thrust areas of the command.

On the second day of her visit to the Andaman & Nicobar Command, went on a windshield tour of the Defence facilities at Port

Blair. She was accompanied by Commander-in-Chief, Andaman & Nicobar Command Vice Admiral Bimal Verma. Subsequently, the RM visited Car Nicobar. At Carnic she paid homage to the personnel and

families who lost their lives during

the Tsunami in 2004. The RM visited

the Japanese Wells and interacted

with the troops prior departing.

- Mattu JP Singh


INS Kiltan (P30), third Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Stealth

Corvettes built under Project 28 (Kamorta Class) was commissioned into the Indian Navy by Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman at an impressive ceremony held at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam on October 16, 2017. Admiral Sunil Lanba, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral HCS Bisht, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral VK Saxena (Retd), CMD, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited, Kolkata (GRSE), Kolkata, Commodore MB Kunte (Retd) first Commanding Officer of erstwhile Kiltan and a host of other dignitaries were also present during the commissioning ceremony. The event marked the formal commissioning into the Navy of the third of the four ASW Corvettes, indigenously designed by the Indian Navy’s in-house organisation, Directorate of Naval Design and constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited, Kolkata.

On arrival at the Naval Jetty, Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman was received by Admiral Sunil Lanba, the Chief of the Naval Staff. The Raksha Mantri was presented with a Guard of Honour and was introduced to the dignitaries’ present prior commencement of commissioning ceremony.

Welcoming the gathering,

Commissioning of INS Kiltan ASW Stealth Corvette

Admiral Sunil Lanba stated that this commissioning marks yet another milestone in our journey of indigenous warship building. The Indian Navy is deeply committed to the principle of indigenisation and the Government’s thrust on ‘Make in India’. Commissioning of four ships in the last year, all built in Indian shipyards, is a testimony of our resolve. Our commitment to indigenisation also assumes special significance as we have steadily broadened our indigenisation efforts beyond ship building. We have achieved considerable success with indigenous sonars such as Abhay and HUMSA-NG as well as weapons such as Varunastra and BrahMos. These achievements are a result of the Indian Navy’s proactive and integrated approach to achieve self-reliance said the Admiral.

This was followed by reading out the Commissioning Warrant of the Ship by the Commanding Officer, Commander Naushad Ali Khan. Subsequently, hoisting of the Naval Ensign onboard for the first time and

‘Breaking of the Commissioning Pennant’ with the National Anthem being played marked the completion of the Commissioning Ceremony.

During her address post commissioning of INS Kiltan, the Raksha Mantri congratulated the Indian Navy, M/s. GRSE, other Indian PSUs and a host of small and medium scale industries, which have contributed towards building this fine ship. She emphasised that the Navy’s relentless pursuit of self-reliance through indigenisation is highly appreciable and this has helped the Indian Navy to seamlessly transform from a Buyer’s to a Builder’s Navy. She highlighted that the addition of INS Kiltan to the naval fleet is a reaffirmation of this transformation. She further exhorted that we need to benchmark our shipbuilding practices to international best practices and produce quality ships in a shorter time frame and at competitive costs. She further stated that the Government fully appreciates the nation’s defence requirements and requisite finances

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman inspects the Guard of Honour

Raksha Mantri unveils the Ship’s Plaque during the Commissioning Ceremony Raksha Mantri walking around the ship post Commissioning


for the Armed Forces and Defence industry would be made available for the modernisation and development plans of the Navy. The Raksha Mantri later unveiled the Commissioning Plaque and dedicated the ship to the nation.

Regarded as a very prestigious acquisition, INS Kiltan is one of the most potent warships to have been constructed in India. The ship’s keel of was laid on August 10, 2010 and launched on March 26, 2013. Her maiden sea trials commenced on May 6, 2017 and finally was handed over to the Indian Navy by GRSE on October 14, 2017. The sleek and magnificent ship is propelled by ‘Combination of Diesel and Diesel (CODAD)’ propulsion system of four diesel engines to achieve speeds in excess of 25 knots and has an endurance of around 3,500 Nautical Miles.

The ship has enhanced stealth features resulting in a reduced Radar Cross Section (RCS) achieved by X-form of hull and superstructure along with optimally sloped surfaces. The very low under water acoustic signature makes it a ‘silent killer on the prowl’. This has been achieved by using advanced techniques for propeller design and mountings

of main machinery. The ship’s advanced stealth features make her less susceptible to detection by the enemy and help in effective employment of soft kill measure like the Chaff.

More than 80 % of the ship is indigenous with state-of-the-art equipment & systems to fight in Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) warfare conditions. Also, P-28 weapons and sensors suite is predominantly indigenous and showcases the nation’s growing capability in this niche area. INS Kiltan is the first major warship with superstructure entirely of composite material.

Weapons and Sensors have been installed/ interfaced on this composite superstructure for the first time on a major warship. Composite superstructure fitted on INS Kiltan ushers the usage of advanced engineering materials on Indian Naval warships with significant improvement in weight and stability parameters.

Apart from her integral ASW capable helicopter, the formidable array of weapons include heavy weight torpedoes, ASW rockets, 76 mm caliber Medium Range gun and two multi-barrel 30 mm guns

as Close-in-Weapon System (CIWS) with dedicated fire control systems. She is also fitted with indigenous missile decoy rockets (Chaff) and advanced ESM (Electronic Support Measure) system to detect and map enemy transmissions and direction finder equipment. The ship boasts of a highly advanced Combat Management System and a sophisticated Integrated Platform Management System.

The ship gets her name from old INS Kiltan (P79), a Petya class ASW ship that served the nation for 18 years before being decommissioned in June 1987. Named after the coral island belonging to the Lakshadweep group of islands in India, the ship has a total complement of 15 officers and 180 sailors. The sleek and magnificent ship spans 109 meters in length, 14 meters in breadth with a displacement of 3,300 tonnes and can rightfully be regarded as one of the most potent Anti Submarine Warships to have been constructed in India.

With the changing power dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region, INS Kiltan will augment the Indian Navy’s mobility, reach and flexibility whilst proudly flying the Indian Flag. The ship is manned by a team comprising 13 officers and 178 sailors with Commander Naushad Ali Khan at the helm as her first Commanding Officer. The commissioning of Kiltan will add a new dimension to the ASW capability of the Indian Navy and the Eastern Fleet in particular. The multifarious missions that can be undertaken by the ship truly reflect the enhanced multi-dimensional capability of the Indian Navy.

- Capt DK Sharma

Group Photo – Seating (Left to Right) - Rear Adm VK Saxena (Retd), CMD, GRSE, Kolkata, Vice Adm DM Deshpande, CWP&A, Admiral Sunil Lanba Chief of the Naval Staff, Raksha

Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman, Vice Admiral HCS Bisht, FOC-in-C ENC Cdr Naushad Ali Khan Commanding Officer INS Kiltan


The Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman made her maiden

visit to Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE), Avadi, Chennai on October 14, 2017. Chairman DRDO & Secretary Department of Defence R&D Dr S Christopher and Scientist & Director, CVRDE Dr P Sivakumar, made a brief presentation on the achievements and on-going national programs of CVRDE in Combat Vehicles & Technologies.

The dignitaries were taken to various technology centres by Director, CVRDE to witness the products and systems/technologies developed by CVRDE. The Raksha Mantri evinced keen interest in the advanced systems like Arjun MBT Mk-II, Arjun Armoured Recovery and Repair Vehicle (ARRV), Arjun Catapult, Unmanned Ground Vehicles, Sub-systems of Light Combat Aircraft –Tejas, Landing Gear, 180 hp engine for Rustom-II, 1000 hp Engine for T-72, 400 hp for BMP-II, besides Armoured Ambulance Tracked, Carrier Command Post Tracked, Bridge Laying Tank (BLT-72). The respective project leaders highlighted the uniqueness and specialities of their systems to the dignitaries.

Visit of Raksha Mantri to CVRDE, Chennai

The Defence Minister visited Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE), Avadi, Chennai on October 14, 2017. She also witnessed a live demonstration of Arjun MBT MK 2, Arjun Armoured Repair Recovery Vehicle (ARRV) and other CVRDE

manufactured items.

The dignitaries assembled at CVRDE-Arjun Auditorium after the showcase of Tanks/ technologies. During this occasion, the Raksha

Mantri released a book namely ‘Arjun MBT – an Indian Success Story’ that describes the entire project of Arjun MBT Mk-I. In the presence


of the Raksha Mantri , Smt Nirmala Sitharaman and the Chairman, DRDO, the first prototype of Arjun ARRV was handed over by Chairman & Managing Director, BEML, Mr Deepak Kumar Hota to Director, CVRDE; Director, CVRDE handed over one set of Landing Gear along with CEMILAC certification to Director, ADE; One set of Power Take Off Shaft to Director, GTRE; and Director, VRDE handed over 180 hp engine to Director, ADE.

Smt Nirmala Sitharaman launched the website, ‘DRDO Robotics & Unmanned Systems Exposition’ (https://rac.gov.in/druse) for inviting the young & talented minds of engineering community from all parts of the country to take part in Defence Challenging applications. She also released a book titled ‘Achievements of CVRDE’ during the ceremony.

The Raksha Mantri congratulated DRDO fraternity, in particular CVRDE, for its unstinted efforts and contributions for the defence self-reliance of the nation and expressed her confidence that DRDO will strive hard to empower the nation further with ‘Make in India’ concept.

- Mattu JP Singh

The Defence Minister launching a website, ‘DRDO Robotics & Unmanned Systems Exposition’ (https://rac.gov.in/druse).

The Defence Minister releasing a book titled ‘Achievement of CVRDE’ during her visit to the Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE), Avadi.


The Minister of State of Defence, Dr Subhash Bhamre, visited Ordnance Factory Khamaria on October 14,

2017. After the Guard of Honor by security squad, he reviewed the exhibition of products made in the factory. He was accompanied by Member of Parliament from Jabalpur Shri Rakesh Singh and MLA of Jabalpur Cantt area Shri Ashok Rohani. With keen interest he saw the 125mm FSAPDS anti-tank ammunition mango project. Later the Minister inaugurated the state-of-the-art new production line for manufacturing of new variants of 84 mm ammunition.

The Minister appreciated the efforts made by the Ordnance Factory Khamaria for 106mm RCL and safe disposal of other rejected ammunitions. Also he appreciated and expressed his pleasure regarding the

RRM visits Ordnance, Vehicle and Gun Carriage Factory at Jabalpur

Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre inaugurating the state-of-the-art new production line for manufacturing of 84 mm ammunitions during his visit to Ordnance Factory Khamaria in

Madhya Pradesh on October 14, 2017. Also seen in the picture are Member of Parliament of Jabalpur Shri Rakesh Singh and MLA of

Jabalpur Cantt area Shri Ashok Rohani.

Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre inspecting the 125mm FSAPDS anti-tank ammunition mango project during his

visit to Ordnance Factory Khamaria in Madhya Pradesh on October 14, 2017.

facilities prepared for the production of new ammunitions. He praised the efforts made by the factory, which he also recorded in his statement in the visitor's book. Senior General Manager also presented a memento of the

factory to the Minister, MP and MLA. In the end, Dr. Bhamre paid tribute to the martyrs during the production in the martyr's memorial, planted Ashoka's plants in the martyr's memorial. Here he met the factory's union and association representatives.

The Minister of State for Defence visited Vehicle Factory Jabalpur. In Vehicle Factory he visited assembly line of Mine Protected Vehicle and appreciated the work and motivated production line workers to put in their best. At the end Dr Bhamre visited the Gun Carriage factory wherein he tried his hands on Pride of Gun Carriage Factory-‘Dhanush’ 155 mm Gun.

Later Dr Subhash Bhamre addressed the large gathering of journalists and answered their queries during the press conference.

- Mattu JP Singh and Gp Capt BB Pande


INSV Tarini entered Fremantle (Australia) port on October 23,

2017 during it’s maiden voyage to circumnavigate the globe. This is the first-ever Indian circumnavigation of the globe by an all-women crew. The vessel is skippered by Lieutenant Commander Vartika Joshi, and the crew comprises Lieutenant Commanders Pratibha Jamwal, P Swathi, and Lieutenants S Vijaya Devi, B Aishwarya and Payal Gupta.

Smt Nirmala Sitharaman, Raksha Mantri had flagged-off INSV Tarini from Goa on September 10, 2017. The vessel has covered 4800 Nautical miles from Goa, crossing the Equator on September 25, 2017 and the Tropic of Capricorn on October 6, 2017.

The indigenously-built INSV Tarini is a 56-foot sailing vessel, which was inducted in the Indian Navy earlier this year, and showcases

Navika Sagar Parikrama - INSV Tarini Enters Fremantle

the ‘Make in India’ initiative on the International forum.

The expedition titled ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama’, is in consonance with the National policy to empower

women to attain their full potential. It also aims to showcase ‘Nari Shakti’ on the world platform and help revolutionise societal attitudes and mindset towards women in India by raising visibility of their participation in challenging environs.

The vessel would return to Goa in April 2018, on completion of the voyage. The expedition is being covered in five legs, with stop-overs at 4 ports: Fremantle (Australia), Lyttleton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falklands), and Cape Town (South Africa).

The crew has also been collating and updating meteorological, ocean and wave data on a regular basis for accurate weather forecast by India Meteorological Department (IMD), as also monitoring marine pollution on the high seas. They would interact extensively with the local populace, especially children, during the port halt to promote Ocean sailing and the spirit of adventure.

The vessel is likely to depart Fremantle on November 5, 2017.

- Capt DK Sharma


India and Russia have had longstanding military and

diplomatic ties and to preserve these bonds of cooperation, India and Russia undertake annual military exercise INDRA. This milestone in military cooperation of the two nations epitomizes their strong and resilient relations. INDRA-2017 is the first tri-services bilateral exercise between the two countries.

On October 18, 2017, Indian contingent flew in IL-76 aircraft of the Indian Air Force to Vladivostok comprising of Army and Air Force personnel. The contingent, led by the Task Force Commander, Maj Gen ND Prasad was accorded a warm welcome by Commander of the Fifth Army of Russian Eastern Military District, Maj Gen Kutuzov.

On October 19, 2017, two indigenously built Indian Naval ships INS Satpura and INS Kadmatt arrived at Vladivostok Port and were given a traditional ceremonial welcome. Rear Admiral Anatoliy Zelinsky, Deputy Commander, Pacific Fleet of the Russian Navy was present on the occasion.

The delegation led by Maj Gen ND Prasad, Task Force Commander called on Mr Alexey Litvinov, the acting Mayor of Vladivostok. Also, the Naval Component Commander Rear Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta interacted with Admiral Sergei Avakyants, Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Pacific Fleet in a warm and cordial atmosphere.

An observer delegation led by Lt Gen JS Negi along with Air Vice Marshal VR Chaudhari and Rear Admiral V Sreenivas visited the 249 Sergeyvsky Training Ranges where a major part of the Army and Air Force component of tri-services Exercise INDRA-2017 is being conducted.

In the final phase of Exercise

Exercise Indra-2017

Lt Gen Satish Dua, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC) addressing the Indian contingent of Joint Indo-Russia tri-services Exercise

INDRA-2017 before their departure at Palam, New Delhi.

Traditional Russian welcome to Indian contingent led by Task Force Commander Major Gen ND Prasad


was aimed for trapped civilians in a counter insurgency environment under UN mandate. The attack tested the response mechanism of the Combined Task Force of Indian and Russian Defence Forces. The terrorists were successfully isolated and the humanitarian aid convoy was escorted to safety. Simultaneously, Fighter Aircrafts and Armed Helicopters pulverized the target in an exceptional display of firepower while Artillery elements comprising of 122mm GRAD and howitzers further softened the target. Armoured Tanks closed in on the target along with Mechanised Infantry elements and cordoned off the entire area, and the stage was set for the Infantry to launch the final assault.

The last drill of Exercise Indra 2017 was carried out on October 28, 2017 when the amphibious landing took place wherein landing of ground forces at Cape of Klerk training area was undertaken by Indian and Russian Naval Elements with Air Support.

The Air Force component undertook various practice missions by combined Indo-Russian crew in Fighters, Transport and Helicopters during the training phase. These aircraft formed an integral part in the Joint Ops that was undertaken and also provided Air Support for amphibious landing mission.

After intense and exacting military training, the joint exercise concluded with a closing ceremony on October 29, 2017 wherein both the contingents showcased their immense talents with unique traditional touches. The grand closing ceremony at Vladivostok which comprised of personnel of both contingents was witnessed by senior officials and dignitaries of both countries including the Ambassador

INDRA-2017 the Task Force comprising of Armoured, Mechanised Infantry and Infantry elements, ably supported by Fighter Aircrafts and Armed Helicopters successfully

extricated a humanitarian aid convoy from a terrorist attack. A terrorist attack on a humanitarian aid convoy was simulated as per the exercise setting. The humanitarian assistance


Fighters and Helicopters co-piloted by Indian and Russian pilots took part in the flypast along with an IAF IL-76 aircraft.

In the joint tactical exercise which began on 19 October 2017, the two countries conducted training focused on combating terrorism. In the series of bilateral exercises under this banner, the exercise this year focused on conduct of counter insurgency / counter terrorist operations under United Nations mandate in a joint service environment. The exercise also provided an opportunity to both the armies for greater cultural understanding, sharing experiences and strengthening mutual trust and co-operation.

- Mattu JP Singh

pix: Rakesh Mangaraj

of India to the Russian Federation Shri Pankaj Saran. Personnel from the Indian as well as Russian

contingents were awarded medals of excellence for their outstanding performance during the exercise.


The Western Air Command, Station Commanders’ Conference was

held on October 23-24, 2017 at New Delhi. Air Officers Commanding, Station Commanders of all Air Force Stations under Headquarter Western Air Command and all Principal Staff officers at HQ WAC attended the conference. The Chief Guest, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, Chief of Air Staff was received by Air Marshal C Hari Kumar, Air Officer Commanding in Chief of Western Air Command. On arrival, the CAS was presented a ceremonial Guard of Honour.

Addressing the Commanders, the CAS emphasized the need to enhance mission capability of all platforms and weapon systems. He reiterated the need for development and upkeep of operational infrastructure and continuous orientation of human resource so as to absorb induction of new technologies for a smooth transition of the IAF into a potent Aerospace power. The Chief re-emphasized the importance and pivotal role of Western Air Command in all future conflicts and in humanitarian assistance and Disaster Relief Missions. He appreciated the

WAC Station Commanders’ Conference

aerospace safety record of WAC and urged the commanders to continue the earnest efforts towards creating an environment for safe operations. He appreciated the rapid response and untiring efforts of Western Air Command in providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in recent times, which included numerous casualty evacuation and transportation of live organs. He exhorted the commanders to revise their plans in consonance with lessons learnt

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, Chief of the Air Staff reviewing the Guard of Honour at HQ Western Air Command, Subroto Park, New Delhi

Commanders of Western Air Command in group photograph with Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, Chief of the Air Staff, at HQ Western Air Command, Subroto Park, New Delhi on

October 23, 2017.

during various exercises to bolster the mission capability of WAC. CAS made a special mention on the need to maintain very high levels of vigil to ensure security of our air bases in the backdrop of the existing internal security situation.

During the conference, discussions and reviews were focused on critical analysis and measures to enhance operational preparedness, further improvement in maintenance practices and ensuring fool-proof physical and cyber security.

The CAS was accompanied by Mrs Kamalpreet Dhanoa, President Air Force Wives Welfare Association (AFWWA), who was received by Mrs Devika Hari Kumar, President AFWWA (Regional). Mrs Kamalpreet Dhanoa presided over the Board of Management Meeting of AFWWA (Regional) and reviewed various welfare activities undertaken by local AFWWA Units of Western Air Command. She also interacted with the Sanginis of WAC.

- N AO

pix: Naresh Kumar


Sainik Samachar (SS). I see that you are holding two appointments. One of the DGMO and the other of Col of the Regt 9 GR. What role does the Col of the Regt (COR) play?

Colonel of the Regt (COR). As per the rich customs and traditions of the Indian Army, one of the senior most officers of the Regiment is bestowed the honorific title of the Colonel of the Regiment. He is responsible for the welfare of all ranks of the Regiment and acts as a mentor to the Commanding Officers. He also acts as a chief patron of the Regimental Centre guiding them on matters related to the training of soldiers. He provides a platform to the veterans to air their concern and grievances. In short he is like the ‘father figure’ of the Regiment.

Interview of Lt Gen AK Bhatt, DGMO and Col of the Regt, 9 GR

SS. Please tell us about your Regiment.

(COR) The Ninth Gorkha Rifles is one of the oldest Regiment of the Indian Army. It was raised in 1817 and is celebrating its Bicentenary this year. The Regiment has acquitted

itself adorably both pre and post Independence and has been awarded three Victoria Crosses, five Mahavir Chakras and seventeen Vir Chakras in the two centuries of its existence. Some of the Regiments battle honours are Afghanistan, France and Flanders, Mesopotamia, North Africa, Chindits, Burma, Phillora, Kumarkhalli, Dera Baba Nanak and Jammu & Kashmir. All its units have been awarded the COAS unit Citation as also at least one if not more GOC-in-C Unit Citation which is an unique achievement for any Regiment of the Indian Army.

This year two of the units, 1/9 GR and 3/9 GR (Chindits) have been awarded the GOC-in-C’s Unit Citation and two teams of 1/9 GR and 4/9 GR (Chindits) have also figured in the final of the Cambrian

Lt Gen AK Bhatt, AVSM, SM, VSM has been the Colonel of the Regiment of 9 GR for the past four years. The Regiment is celebrating its Bicentenary year in November 2017. Lt Gen AK Bhatt, AVSM, SM, VSM in an

interview with Ms Ruby Thinda Sharma, Sr Editor of Sainik Samachar, at his office in South Block, New Delhi.

Lt Gen AK Bhatt flagging off the Stok Kangri expedition


Patrol Army Championship. We are also the proud winners of the Gorkha Brigade Boxing Championship.

SS. What is this unique insignia that you wear on your uniform? I have not seen it worn by anyone.

(COR) That is the ‘Chindits’ badge. The ‘Chindits’ were a special force which operated behind enemy lines in Burma in 1944. Only a few units were found fit to take part in it. The Regiment had the proud privilege of contributing two battalions to this force, 3/9 GR and 4/9 GR. In honour of their achievements and sacrifices, these units have been given the privilege to wear this badge which was the formation sign of the ‘Chindits’ force.

SS. I also see that you are not wearing a lanyard. Is this specific to your Regiment and what is the reason?

(COR) This enigma continues to mystify me as well. I have made

several attempts to solve this mystery and have heard of many tales and all of them seem plausible. They range from 9 GR letting their deeds speak for themselves without any embellishments to …… one of the British Colonels of the Regiment after the Second World War doing away with the lanyard as his request to wear it on the right side as a ‘Royal Regiment’ in honour of its contributions in the war was refused. Whatever be the reason, we are unique within the infantry fraternity and continue to with hold the traditions of our deeds speaking for themselves.

SS. Have their been other DGMOs before you from your Regiment?

(COR) The Gorkha Regiments have always attracted the best material from the academies and 9 Gorkha Rifles despite being one of the smallest Regiments has the unique distinction of four officers becoming

DGMOs. My predecessors have been, Gen Palit who was in the same chair as a Brig, Gen IK Varma and Gen Madan Gopal. I feel humbled that I belong to this august club. It is a great tribute to the working ethos of the Regiment and the diligence and sincerity of our soldiers that so many of us have risen in the ranks.

SS. What message would you want to convey from the COR to our readers who are both serving soldiers and veterans. ?

(COR) I wish all ranks and veterans of the Ninth Gorkha Rifles on this stellar achievement of 200 years of glorious service. I dedicate these celebrations to all those who are serving and have served in the Regiment and together we pay tribute to all those who have laid down their lives for the honour of the Regiment and the Nation.

Jai Gorakh…… Jai Hind !pix: Sushil Kumar

Lt Gen AK Bhatt, DGMO and Colonel of the Regiment of 9 GR, in conversation with Ms Ruby T Sharma, Sr Editor of Sainik Samachar, at his office in South Block, New Delhi.


71st ‘Infantry Day’ was celebrated on October 27, 2017. On the

occasion, General Bipin Rawat, Lieutenant General YK Joshi, DG Infantry and Colonels of the Infantry Regiments laid the wreaths and paid homage to the braves in a solemn ceremony organised at ‘Amar Jawan Jyoti’. Subedar (Honorary Captain) Khajur Singh, VrC (Retired) represented the veterans in the Wreath Laying Ceremony.

Since the advent of warfare, the Infantry soldier has remained

71st Infantry Day Celebrations

the pillar for decisive victory and imposition of National will. The Infantry has been at the forefront of all operations that the Indian Army has undertaken. Battle hardened and combat rich experienced, the Infantry has a glorious history and an enviable combat record, having been awarded 17 Param Vir Chakras

the leading elements of the Indian Army from 1st Battalion of the SIKH Regiment, air landed at Srinagar. This bold action by the Indian Army and resolve displayed by the Infantry men reversed the tide of events and thwarted the nefarious designs of Pakistani Raiders aided by the Pakistan Army.

As part of the Infantry Day celebrations, Field Marshal KM Carriappa Memorial Lecture was also organized at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantonment on ‘Defence Diplomacy and Management of Geo - Strategic Environment in India’s Neighbourhood’.

- Col Aman Anand

pix: Vijay Kumar

and 48 Ashok Chakras.

Infantry celebrates October 27th each year as the Infantry Day to commemorate the first Infantry action post Independence. In response to the threat posed to the sovereignity and territorial integrity of our Nation, on this day in 1947,


In pursuance of India’s Act East Policy and demonstration of India’s

commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region, Indian Naval Ships Satpura and Kadmatt visited Sasebo, Japan from October 12-15, 2017. The visit of these ships was part the Indian Government’s initiatives to strengthen the long standing, mutually supportive and strong relationship between Japan and India. This historic relationship spans across the entire spectrum of engagement between both countries – cultural, spiritual, economic and security.

The visiting Indian Naval ships engaged with the JMSDF in formal calls, as also professional, social and sporting interactions. After completion of the harbour phase, the ships took part in Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Murusame Class destroyer, JS Kirisame.

Since the first ‘Navy to Navy Staff Talks’ between the two nations in November 2008, naval ties have reached new heights with bilateral and multilateral exercises and enhanced cooperation in information sharing, meteorology and oceanography, disaster management and military training. The defence and security interaction between both countries has since expanded to encompass a Defence Policy Dialogue and a Maritime Affairs Dialogue.

Indian Naval Ships Satpura and Kadmatt visit Sasebo, Japan

also have strong bilateral defence training cooperation, including at very senior levels. Further, in order to enhance interoperability and understanding, seminars and short term exchange programs are conducted regularly in both countries with participation from both navies. This exchange has expanded to sporting interaction in the form of JMSDF participation in the annual international Admiral’s Cup Regatta at the Indian Naval Academy for the first time in 2016. India looks forward to continued participation from the JMSDF and an invitation has been extended for the 2017 edition as well.

Both navies look forward to enhanced cooperation in the fields of military technology, white shipping, training, intelligence sharing, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and exchange of subject matter experts in various fields. With relations between both countries at an all time high and more avenues under consideration, the future looks promising with safer sea lanes and highly modernised navies helping in fulfilling each other’s obligations.

- Capt DK Sharma

Regular bilateral and multilateral maritime exercises have been the foundation for strong naval relations. The erstwhile Japan – India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX) led to Japan participating in the ‘MALABAR’ exercise (a tripartite naval exercise between India, the US and Japan) since 2014. JMSDF Ships Izumo and Sazanami participated in the recently concluded edition of Ex MALABAR off Chennai. Both navies have participated in each other’s International Fleet Reviews (IFR) by deputing ships and high level delegations – while INS Sahyadri participated in the IFR at Yokosuka in October 2015, JS Matsuyuki participated in the IFR at Visakhapatnam in February 2016.

The Indian Navy and JMSDF


Indian Air Force carried out major landing operations on the Lucknow-

Agra Expressway, about 60 km west of Lucknow. The series of landings took place close to Bangarmau in Unnao District of Uttar Pradesh, where a 3 km stretch was specially prepared for such operations. The landing operations commenced at around 1015 hrs and continued till about 1200 hrs. A total of sixteen aircraft participated in the operation which comprised IAF’s frontline Air Superiority Fighters including the Sukhoi-30, Mirage-2000 and Jaguar fighter aircraft. These aircraft took off from Bareilly, Gwalior and Gorakhpur respectively. In addition, the IAF carried out drills in which Garud Commandos were inserted and extricated for ground operations, by the C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft which took off from Hindon airbase.

A team of Senior IAF Officials headed by Senior Air Staff Officer HQ CAC, IAF Allahabad Air Marshal AS Butola were present to oversee the operations. While the operation was conducted under

IAF Landing Operations on Agra-Lucknow Expressway

the aegis of HQ CAC, Bamrauli Allahabad, Air Force Station Bakshi Ka Talab Station Commander, Gp Capt J Suares and his team, were responsible for the overall control and coordination of the exercise.

On site arrangements were made for a Mobile Air Traffic Control, Radar Control, Meteorological Facility, Aerospace Safety and Security Control. In addition, to deal

with any situation, crash, firefighting, rescue and medical teams were positioned. IAF sought assistance from State Government authorities for temporary closure of the expressway and other matters like crowd control, etc. A large number of police personnel were stationed along the stretch to ensure smooth conduct of operations.

The exercise commenced with an impressive short landing by the C-130 which on its landing roll itself started off loading the Garud Commandos and their vehicle in manoeuvre called Combat ERO (Engine Running Offload). Immediately on disembarking from the C-130, the Commandos took up position on either side of the airstrip to cordon it off for the fighter operations. This was followed by two sets of 3-3 Mirages, five SU30s and three Jaguars. All 14 fighter aircraft carried out a roller/touch and go manoeuvre on the expressway. The C-130 then returned for another short landing to extricate the Garud Commandos.

Over the past few years, IAF


has been increasing its efforts to utilise certain straight stretches of National Highways for emergency landings. Such highway stretches are planned to be used in emergencies, if an active airport is not available for some reason. These operations increase the flexibility in the use of Air Power. In addition, use of transport aircraft for quick insertion of forces for Human Assistance and Disaster Relief into civil area and Special Forces in case of contingencies has been validated.

IAF had already carried out landings by fighter aircraft for the first time on the Yamuna expressway on May 21, 2015. The stretch of Agra – Lucknow expressway was earlier activated for the first time for IAF operations in November 2016 in which six fighter aircraft of the IAF landed on the expressway. However, in this exercise, IAF included the Jaguar fighter aircraft for the first time. Also for the first time, IAF’s C-130J transport aircraft participated in highway landing operations for insertion and extrication of Garud Special Forces.

While the operations on October 24, 2017 required the closure of the portion of the expressway for road traffic, through the excellent support of the UP State Government and UPEIDA, once the planned works are completed, such road traffic closure will not be required henceforth. Two diversion roads on either side of the airstrip are near completion. In

addition, wire fencing on both sides is also being undertaken to keep the airstrip clear of stray animals. Two parking areas for aircraft at both ends of the airstrip are also nearing completion.

Several countries like Germany, Sweden, South Korea, Taiwan, Finland, Switzerland, Poland, Singapore, Czechoslovakia, Pakistan, etc. have dedicated stretches on their highways and expressways for aircraft to land and take off in emergencies or war like events.

This operation has majorly boosted IAF’s capability to undertake unhindered operations even during non-availability of standard runways. It has demonstrated the expert flying skills of its fighter and transport aircrew, and the capability of its ground crew in activating such expressway airstrips on short notice. Such activations of highway stretches all across India are planned to be practised regularly by the IAF in future.

- Mattu JP Singh


Sunjuwan Military Station, Jammu witnessed a historic moment on October 21, 2017, when General Bipin

Rawat, Chief of the Army Staff, on behalf of the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, presented the ‘President’s Standard’ to 47 Armoured Regiment. The Standard is an award for unit heroism and epitomizes the history, undaunting spirit and acts of valour forged in sweat and blood of the Regiment. It serves to inspire men, kindle the hopes of the future and above all strengthens the bond of allegiance towards the Regiment. To commemorate this historic event Chief of the Army Staff also released a “Special First Day Cover”.

This honour was bestowed on the Regiment in recognition of its unflinching meritorious service since its raising on November 15, 1982. The Regiment has participated in a number of operations undertaken by the India Army, and also contributed personnel for Rashtriya Rifles. The hard work and sacrifices made by the valiant

Standard Presented to 47 Armoured Regiment by Chief of the Army Staff

soldiers of this Regiment have been recognised by numerous gallantry and distinguished service awards.

The Standard Presentation ceremony showcased a mounted parade by the Regiment on the T-72 Tanks with clockwork precision and immaculate coordination. The occasion was graced by many senior serving and retired military officers and civil dignitaries including Lieutenant General DR Soni, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, ARTRAC, Lieutenant General Surinder Singh General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command and Lieutenant General D Anbu, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command.

- Col NN Joshi

pix: Shri SN Acharya


A Veterans Rally was organised at Srinagar (Garhwal) on October

13-14, 2017 under the aegis of Garud Division to create awareness amongst the veterans about the latest welfare measures instituted by the State and Central Government and to project the image of Army among the general public.

Veterans Rally was inaugurated by Major General Kabindra Singh, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Garud Division and attended by Senior Military Officers and other civil dignitaries. Extensive arrangements were made by the Garud Division to assist veterans to resolve their basic problem. Various stalls for providing latest information like Pension Adalat for pension benefits, linking of Aadhaar Card, Pan Card & Mob No, new pension schemes of various banks, Army Placement Node and Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), online registration for digital life certificate etc., were incorporated.

A medical camp was also organized wherein the services of various medical specialists was made available to the veterans and their families. An eye care stall was established by Nirmal Eye Care, Rishikesh for free eye check up. In addition, modified scooters were distributed to disabled veterans and Veer Naris were also felicitated during the occasion.

Various cultural programmes like Bhangra & Gatka were also organised. The rally received overwhelming response with many veterans participating in the event. The elaborate arrangements made by Garud Division at the rally were appreciated by one and all.

- Gargi Malik Sinha

Army Organises Veterans Rally in Srinagar, Garhwal


Egyptian Naval Ship (ENS) Shabab Misr commanded by Captain

Tamer Mohamed Soliman with a crew of 81 personnel comprising 26 officers and 55 sailors visited Kochi from October 9-11, 2017. Commodore Mohamed Atteya is the Chief of Mission.

On October 9, 2017 the Chief of Mission and Commanding Officer of ENS Shabab Misr, accompanied by Colonel Sherif Mohamed Fekry, resident Defence Attache (DA) Egypt, New Delhi called on Rear Admiral

Visit of Egyptian Navy Ship to Kochi

to shared historical and cultural heritage going back thousands of years. There has also been interaction at various levels between the two navies. Egypt has been regularly deputing their team for Admiral’s Cup Sailing Regatta conducted annually at Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala since its inception in 2010. The event is conducted for young cadets/ officers from various friendly foreign countries.

On departure from Kochi, a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) was conducted off Kochi on October 11, 2017 between INS Sharda and ENS Shabab Misr.

- Cdr Sridhar Warrior

RJ Nadkarni, Chief of Staff (COS), Southern Naval Command (SNC). During the official calls, professional subjects of common interest to both navies were discussed. On completion of the visit crests were exchanged.

The visiting foreign ship’s crew

Rear Admiral RJ Nadkarni presenting memento to the visiting ENS delegations.

Chief of Mission Commodore Mohamed Atteya presenting memento to Rear Admiral R J Nadkarni.

PASSEX between INS Sharda and ENS Shabab Misr

ENS Shabab Misr

was also given a conducted tour of IN Ship Sharda. The crew from the ENS Shabab Misr also visited places of interest at Fort Kochi, Marine Drive and historical sites during their stay at Kochi.

India traditionally has enjoyed warm relations with Egypt due


IN Ships Tir, Sujata, Shardul, and ICGS Sarathi visited Jakarta,

Indonesia from October 18-22, 2017. The visit was aimed to expose the trainees to the conduct of IN warship in foreign waters, port familiarisation and foster bridges of friendship between the two countries. The ships belong to the First Training Squadron of the Indian Navy functioning under the Southern Naval Command, headquartered at Kochi and comprises six indigenously built ships, namely, Indian Naval Ships Tir, Sujata, Shardul, Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi and two Sail Training Ships, viz. INS Sudarshini and INS Tarangini.

The visit of the ships coincided with the visit of Vice Admiral AR Karve, AVSM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C), Southern Naval Command, which is the Training Command of the Indian Navy. On October 18, 2017, The Admiral called on Vice Admiral ADE Taufiq R, Vice Chief of Staff, Indonesian Navy and discussed matters of mutual interest to both the countries. The Commanding officers of the Indian ships called on the Naval area commander, Jakarta.

Executive Branch trainee officers, after completing Ab-initio training at the Indian Naval

1TS Ship visits Jakarta, Indonesia

training to international trainees for more than four decades, wherein approximately 13500 personnel from over 40 countries have been trained. Presently seven officers from Indonesia are undergoing various Ab-initio to advanced courses at SNC. The Command has gained the reputation of being the finest training destination by maintaining focussed approach to provide high quality training and by constant adaptation to evolving tactics and technologies.

The Training Squadron is helmed by Captain DJ Revar, Senior Officer First Training Squadron, who is also Commanding Officer INS Tir. He has under him, a team of highly motivated officers and sailors to assist him in conduct of the sea training.

- Capt DK Sharma

Academy, where they earn a B Tech degree, join the First Training Squadron for intensive Practical Sea Training of 24 weeks designed to enable them get their ‘Sea Legs’. The Sea Trainees are taught seamanship, basic navigation, ship handling, boat work, engineering aspects besides exposure to the rigours of life at sea. The curriculum also includes sail training onboard the Sail Training Ship, where the trainees are exposed to the elements and get to grip with the art of sailing and rope work. On successful completion of this phase, the trainees are appointed to various ships of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard for the Afloat Training Phase and Seamanship Board. At the First Training Squadron, the IN also trains officers from friendly foreign countries.

The Indian Navy has imparted


The Annual Command Meeting (ACM) of Southern Naval Command (SNC) for 2017 was held on

October 10, 2017 at Naval Base, Kochi. The meeting was chaired by Vice Admiral AR Karve, AVSM, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief (FOC-in-C), Southern Naval Command and attended by Senior Officers, Commanding Officers, Officers-in-Charge and Directors of ships, establishments, training schools and Units of SNC. Various issues concerning operations, administration, and maintenance were discussed during the meeting.

On the occasion, the Admiral also presented awards for outstanding achievements to meritorious establishments. INS Valsura was presented with ‘Dakshin Nausena Kaman Raja Bhasha Rolling Trophy’ for best implementation of official language (Hindi) in day to day working, INS Chilka receiving the Runners Up trophy. The FOC-in-C (South) Rolling Trophy for Best Green Practices’ was awarded to Naval Aircraft Yard (NAY), Kochi under ‘Industrial Unit’ category and to INS Shivaji under ‘Non-Industrial Unit’ category.

The ACM is an annual activity at all Commands of the Indian navy wherein a stock taking of all the issues concerning the units of the respective Commands is carried out for analysis and course correction if any.

- Cdr Sridhar Warrier

Annual Command Meeting, Southern Naval Command

Annual Command Meeting in progress

Vice Admiral AR Karve presenting trophy for Best Green Practices' in an ‘Industrial Unit’ to NAY (K)

Vice Admiral AR Karve presenting trophy for best implementation of official language (Hindi) to Commanding Officer INS Valsura


Attestation and Passing Out Parade for the recruits of Course

Serial No 116 was carried out at The Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Regimental Centre on October 21, 2017 on the successful completion of their Military Training. Recruit Navdeep Thakur led the parade as Parade Commander. The parade was an elegant show of drill & discipline where 201 recruits marched on martial tunes & finally passed out to join the Indian Army Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Regiment.

Lieutenant General Vivek Pratap Singh, AVSM, YSM, Col of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles and Ladakh Scouts & DG RR reviewed the parade. Complementing the young soldiers on impeccable drill, excellent turnout and conduct of the ceremony, he exhorted them to serve the nation with honour and dignity as part of this elite organization. He also felicitated the recruits who excelled in the training with various medals of honour. Gen Zorawar Singh Medal and Commandant Rolling Trophy for Best Recruit in batch was awarded to Recruit Vinod Kumar. Lt Gen KS Katoch, MC, Padma Bhushan, Second Best in Batch Medal was awarded to Recruit Pawan Kumar. Brig Sher Jung Thapa MVC, Best in drill medal was given to Recruit Navdeep Thakur. Brig Rajinder Singh, MVC, Best in BPET

Passing out Parade: The JAK Rifles Regimental Centre

Medal was awarded to Recruit Paras Gupta. Best in Advance Camp Training Commandant Medal was given to Recruit Sahil Sharma. Capt Vikram Batra, PVC, Best in firing medal was given to Recruit Sourabh Singh, Commandant’s Best Recruit /Tradesman of passing out course

Medal was given to Recruit /Chef Ankush Sharma, Commandant’s Best Trainer Medal was awarded to Sub Rachpal Singh. Maj Gen CA Pithawalla, AC, VSM, Best Instr Medal was given to Nk Chaman Lal. These awards will go a long way in motivating the recruits to perform to the Best of their ability for the country and Indian Army.

Officers, JCOs, NCOs and families of the Regimental Centre witnessed the parade, which was flawlessly conducted with traditional excellence and pride of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Regimental Centre in tune with the highest standards maintained by the Armed Forces. The highlight of function was “Oath Taking Ceremony” by all new soldiers, confirming their total allegiance to serve the nation.

- PRO JAK RRC


Q1. Which product having the chemical composition Chloroxylenol was initially used for disinfection in maternity wards and launched in India 1933. This product continues to be one of the ten most trusted brands in India in the last ten years and is also popular in CSD Canteen?

Q 2. Which Indian institute has Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka of Fiji as its alumni who later on master minded a successful coup in Fiji? He is remembered as General Rabuka (PIC-1)

Q 3. The Hindi film “Saat Hindustani” was the first film of Amitabh Bachan. What was the theme of this film?

Q 4. Colonel CK Nayudu was the first test captain of Indian Cricket team. Whose colonel was he? (PIC-2)

Q 5. Which instrument is depicted in the emblem of Maintenance Command of Indian Air Force? (PIC-3)

Q 6. Who coined the phrase “Pen is mightier than

ChakravyuhSword” in a play about “Cardinal Richelieu”?

Q 7. The IAF Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) is known for its spectacular Aero Display. Which type of Aircraft is currently being flown by SKAT?(PIC -4)

Q 8. Name the locality in South Mumbai which was home to Marine Batallion lines established by British which was later converted to Air Force Residential Quarters?

Q 9. With which country’s armed forces is Indian Army participating in Ex-Yudh Abhyas 2017?

Q 10. Identify the submarine manufactured by Mazagon Dock Limited (PIC-5)

Q 11. A Half-Marathon was conducted by Territorial Army in New Delhi on October 9, 2017. The event was flagged off by Lt Gen Anil Kumar Bhatt, Director General Of Military Operations, Maj Gen D A Chaturvedi, ADG TA and Lt Col (Hony) Kapil Dev. What was the occasion?

Q 12. Where is Army Postal Service Centre located?

Answers

1 Dettol. 2 Defence Services Staff College, Wellington. 3 Liberation of Goa from Portuguese Colonial rule. 4 Colonel in Holkar’s Army. 5 Screw Guage. 6 English Author Edward Bulwer-Lytton. 7 BAE Hawk Mk 132. 8 Marine Lines. 9 United States of America. 10 INS Kalvari. 11 68th Territorial Army day. 12 Kamptee, Nagpur

- Wg Cdr Samir Gangakhedkar

Pic-1 Pic-2 Pic-3 Pic-4

Pic-5


RM releases Coffee Table Book on Department of Defence Production

Chief of the Naval Staff reviews Progress of Vikrant

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman released a coffee table book on the Department of Defence

Production (DDP), titled ‘A journey towards self-reliance’ on October 27, 2017. The first ever coffee table book on the department, it chronicles the post-independence years of development, indigenisation and production of arms, ammunition and defence equipment, with a view to achieve self-reliance for the Armed Forces of India.

Smt Nirmala Sitharaman, in her message printed in the book says, “The coffee table book is a noteworthy initiative of DDP to compile success stories of projects of OFB/ DPSUs, transcending from the stage of inception to execution.”

A similar view is echoed by Raksha Rajya Mantri Dr Subhash Bhamre who in his message says, “I am pleased to learn that DDP is bringing out a “Coffee Table Book” highlighting inception of OFB/ DPSUs, production of wide ranging products at various units, indigenization efforts as well as the Corporate Social Responsibilities.”

The contents of the book are a remarkable collection of past and current defence equipment produced in India. Avid readers will find themselves immersed in a world of illustrations and remarkable photographs, captured at

Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) visited Kochi on October 12, 2017 to review the

progress of construction of the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC)- "Vikrant" at the Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL), Kochi. On his arrival, he was received at the naval air

‘the’ moments, and revealing relevant texts, which will be of interest to the ‘defence technology-savvy’ Indians.

The book epitomises the visionary approach of the Government of India seeking to establish India as a global manufacturing hub, under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. It lends credence to the sincere efforts put in by thousands of unknown faces, to mould and shape the Indian defence industry.

- Mattu JP Singh

pic: Rakesh Kumar

station, INS Garuda by Vice Admiral AR Karve, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C), Southern Naval Command.

At the shipyard, the CNS accompanied by the FOC-in-C (South) and other senior officials of the Navy took a walk around of the ship to get a firsthand appreciation of the progress of work onboard wherein he was briefed on the various construction activities. Later, the CNS had discussions with Shri Madhu S Nair, Chairman and Managing Director, CSL.

Keel of the IAC was laid in Feb 2009 and the ship was launched in August 2013. Work on the hull structure is nearing completion and outfitting activities on various equipment and systems are progressing at present.

- Cdr Sridhar Warrier

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman releasing first-ever Coffee Table Book on Department of Defence Production titled ‘A Journey Towards Self-Reliance’ in South Block, New Delhi on October 27,

2017. Also seen in the picture are Raksha Rajya Mantri Dr Subhash Bhamre and Secretary (Defence Production) Shri AK Gupta among

other senior officers.


IAF Delegation visits ASEAN Secretariat

Australian Ship visits Port Blair

Australian Naval Ship HMAS Toowoomba was on a four

day goodwill visit to Port Blair. The frigate of ANZAC Class arrived at the Haddo Wharf on October 12, 2017. On arrival, the Commanding Officer of HMAS Toowoomba called on Senior Officials of Andaman & Nicobar Command. During their stay at Port Blair various social interactions, sports events and joint exercise were held between the Indian Navy and Australian Navy. The ship departed from Port Blair on October 15, 2017.

- Col A Dikshit

A delegation comprising of twenty Officers from the

prestigious College of Air Warfare, Secunderabad of the Indian Air Force visited the Secretariat of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) at Jakarta, Indonesia. The visit of the delegation to Jakarta was to enable the officers to have a better appreciation of the importance of the region and

enhance regional cooperation through bilateral interactions. As part of the visit to ASEAN, the delegation was given a detailed briefing on the role and relevance of ASEAN with its focus on One Vision-One Identity-One Community. The briefing also emphasised the strong bond between India and ASEAN with emphasis on the ASEAN - India partnership for peace, progress and

shared prosperity through mutual cooperation. The briefing was followed by an interactive session which witnessed mutual exchange of ideas towards better understanding of the role, tenets, and vision of ASEAN. Multiple issues regarding ASEAN Regional Forum and ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting were also discussed.

- B Satheesh Kumar


Outstanding Performance of the INA Cadet in the Army Equestrian Championship (AEC) 2017

Military Academy, Boys Sports Company (Remount and Veterinary Corps), National Cadet Corps, Army Service Corps, participated in the competition organised by Remount and Veterinary Corps Center and College, Meerut cantonment.

- Lt Cdr RG Ajith

Indian Naval Academy (INA) cadets won seven medals including two

Gold, one Silver and one Bronze in individual category and two Gold in team category in recently concluded Army Equestrian Championship (AEC) 2017, which is considered to be one of the toughest competitions

Air Vice Marshal P Subhash Babu visits Kakinada

Air Vice Marshal P Subhash Babu, Assistant Chief of Air

Staff (Financial Planning), Air HQs, New Delhi visited Kakinada, East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh to participate in the closing ceremony of National Integration Camp of NCC. He was the Chief Guest in the function held at JNV, Peddapuram, Kakinada. Addressing NCC cadets he congratulated the cadets from various states from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Nagaland to Mumbai who had the opportunity to stay together, play together learning each others’ customs, traditions and culture. He felt that such integration camps bring people together and make them appreciate the cultural, linguistic diversity of the nation.

Earlier, NCC cadets presented

Guard of Honour to Air Vice Marshal. Cadets from different states staged colorful cultural performances of their respective states that enthralled the audience. The Chief Guest gave away prizes to the winners in various competitions held during the camp.

in the country in the field of equestrian sports.

The event was held at Meerut in October 2017. Over 250 Equestrian riders from various military academies including National Defence Academy, Indian

Besides distinguished guests, large number of students, academicians, armed forces participated in the closing ceremony of the National Integration Camp.

- B Satheesh Kumar


Annual Athletic Meet concludes at Sainik School Kazhakootam

The Closing Ceremony of the 56th Annual Athletic Meet of Sainik

School Kazhakootam was held October 7, 2017 at school campus. Smt Padmini Thomas, Former President of Kerala State Sports Council & Arjuna Awardee, was the

Chief Guest on the occasion.

The impressive events included a well coordinated march past and scintillating displays by the School Band as well as the Kungfu club. Shivaji House emerged as

the senior Champions, with Cadet Vikas Kumar being adjudged the best athlete. Patel House and VKKM House emerged champions in the junior and sub-junior categories with cdt Sameer Kumar and cdt Shiva Kumar B bagging the Best Athlete Award in the respective categories. The Chief Guest, speaking on the occasion, expressed her delight for having been able to make it to the famed soil of this premier institution of which she had heard a lot. Quoting from own experiences she emphasized the role of hard work & determination in achieving goals, thus creating wonderful citizens and successful careers.

Officiating Principal Lt Col B Girish Kumar welcomed the gathering and Vice Principal Lt Commander Parichay Kalra proposed vote of thanks.

- Dhanya Sanal K

Indian Army Commemorates 55th Year of “Battle of Nam-Ka-Chu”

To commemorate the 55th year of “The Battle of Nam-Ka-Chu”,

a Cycling Expedition by 2 RAJPUT comprising of three Officers, two JCOs and 15 OR was conducted from October 16 to 20, 2017. The Cycle Expedition was flagged off by Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, General Officer Commanding (GOC) Strike 1 at Mathura on October 16, 2017. The five day Cycle Expedition traversed through Agra, Firozabad, Shikohabad, Mainpuri, Fatehgarh & Shahjahanpur which are the important catchment areas for recruitment of RAJPUT troops, and terminated at Shahjahanpur covering a total distance 336 Km. During the course of the Cycling Expedition, the team interacted

with school and college students to spread awareness about the battle and narrate the valiant effort by Indian Army in safeguarding the territorial and national integrity of the nation. The team also interacted with the veterans and ex-serviceman to address their grievances.

The Nation recalls 1962 as the year during which it fought a major

war with China. The war commenced at the dizzy height of Dhola Post during which 2 RAJPUT fought valiantly wherein 4 Officers, 11 JCOs and 270 OR of the Battalion laid down their lives on October 20, 1962. The battle fought by 2 RAJPUT stands testimony to the saga of “Collective Valour and Self Sacrifice”.

- Gargi Malik Sinha


Kashmiri students visit Bengaluru

A group of 19 High School children (boys) along with 2 teachers

from Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir visited Bengaluru from October 9 to 12, 2017 as part of Capacity Building Tour (CBT), under Operation Sadbhavana, organized by the Indian Army and coordinated by the Headquarters Karnataka and Kerala Sub Area.

The students arrived in Bengaluru on October 9, 2017, visited Army Public School, Rashtriya Military School, Visvesvaraya Industria and Technological Museum, Aquarium Art Gallery, M Chinnaswamy Stadium and Vidhana Soudha. They also visited Karnataka and Kerala Sub Area and met Major General KS Nijjar, General Officer Commanding of Karnataka and Kerala Sub Area.

The main focus of the boys exclusive CBT was to increase their awareness about the latest advancement in the field of science and technology, software Industry, business management, hospitality and service industry.

The interaction of children from terror affected regions of Jammu and Kashmir with large cross section

AOC successfully completes Himalayan Mountain Pass Expedition

A 15 member mountaineering team comprising of two officers, one Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO)

and twelve Other Ranks (OR) of Army Ordnance Corps (AOC) successfully completed the ‘AOC Expedition to Traill’s Pass’ recently. The Traill’s Pass is the high-altitude Himalayan mountain pass at the height of 5400 meters located between Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot peaks in Uttarakhand state. The team was felicitated by

Brigadier PK Sharma, Commandant, AOC Centre in Secunderabad Cantonment.

In continuation of the revered tradition of mountaineering in Army Ordnance Corps, a trekking expedition was organized by AOC Centre, under the aegis of Southern Command on September 2017 to ‘Traill’s Pass’ that connects the Milam and Pindari glaciers. It is one of the most venerated and challenging trekking expeditions in the Himalayas.

The team, under the leadership of Major Chirag Chatterjee was flagged off by the Commandant, AOC Centre on August 7, 2017. After a brief period of training and acclimatization at Dharchula, the team started the arduous expedition on September 5, 2017 from Loharkhet in Uttarakhand. The team finally hoisted the tricolours on Traill’s Pass at 0940 hours on September 19, 2017 and successfully completed the expedition upon reaching Munshiyari on September 22, 2017.

The team became the sixteenth team in the world and the first amongst the Indian Armed Forces to achieve this feat.

- B Satheesh Kumar

of the society helped bring about a significiant attitudinal awaking amongst the participants. The CBT will not only assist the children of this remote area to become better citizens but will also motivate them to assist in the overall development of the region and the country.

- Sivaram Pailoor


75th EME Corps Day celebrated

APS, Tezpur awarded Overall Excellence Trophy

Army Public School, Tezpur was awarded the Overall Excellence

Trophy in Senior Secondary School Category for the academic session 2016-17. The award was presented to this premier educational institution during the Eastern Command Chairmen & Principals’ Meet- 2017 that was held in Tezpur on October 10-11, 2017. Hosted by Army Public School Tezpur, the Meet was attended by the nominated Chairmen & Principals of various Army Commands of the country and the Chairmen & Principals’ of 22 Army Public Schools of Eastern Command.

The Meet was chaired by Major General Alok Raj, Chief of Staff, HQ Gajraj Corps & Patron Army Public School, Tezpur. Brig Tushar Roy, Chairman Army Public School, Tezpur delivered the welcome address at the Meet that was also attended by Colonel Deepak Gupta,

Director Schools, HQ AWES and Colonel AGS Koijam, Director, AWES HQ Eastern Command.

A number of agenda points on school issues related to acadmics & co-curricullar activities were discussed on both the days by the forum. The Meet culminated with a cultural programme by the students of Army Public School Tezpur, that paid rich tributes to the river Brahmaputra. It was followed by the closing address of the Chairman and vote of thanks to all the delegates for their gracious presence

and cooperation by Mrs Banani Hazarika, Principal Army Public School Tezpur. The programme also saw the presenting of awards in various disciplines to the schools. Army Public School Kalimpong was awarded the Excellence Trophy in Senior School Category and Army Public School Tezpur emerged as the winner of overall excellence Trophy in Senior Secondary School Category for the academic session 2016-17.

- Lt Col Sombit Ghosh

The 75th Corps Day of the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers, popularly known as Eagles,

was celebrated at Lucknow Cantonment on October 15, 2017. Lieutenant General BS Negi, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Central Command, in his special message to the Eagles fraternity of Surya Command extended his felicitations and good wishes to all Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers, Other Rank,

civilian employees of the Corps, both serving and retired and their families.

Lt Gen Negi exhorted all Eagles for contribution in achieving and maintaining a high level of mission readiness in the myriad weapon systems and equipment in Surya Command Theatre. He expressed confidence that the Corps will rise to the occasion, as it always has and meet the challenges posed by the cutting edge technologies and intricacies of present day equipment and weapon systems.

In tune with the traditions of the Indian Army, a solemn wreath laying ceremony was held at the Central Command War Memorial ‘SMRITIKA’ which was attended by all serving Eagles. Major General JS Sidana, Major General Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (MG EME), Central Command, paid homage and tribute to all martyrs by laying a wreath.

- Gargi Malik Sinha


Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar P, AVSM VSM assumes charge as the Vice Chief of Naval Staff

Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar P has assumed charge as the Vice Chief of Naval Staff from Vice Admiral Karambir Singh AVSM at a formal ceremony

held at South Block, New Delhi.Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar is an alumni of the National Defence Academy.

The Flag Officer was commissioned in the Indian Navy on July 1, 1981 and is a specialist in Missiles & Gunnery. He has had the distinction of having commanded six sea going platforms which include the guided missile corvette Kulish (commissioning), the guided missile frigate Talwar, the guided missile destroyers Mumbai and Mysore. The officer has done the Naval Higher Command Course and is also an alumni of the Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island, USA.

His important assignments include Director Maritime Warfare Centre, Visakhapatnam, Commanding Officer of INS Dronacharya, Kochi, Chief Staff Officer (Operations) of the Western Naval Command, Mumbai.

He was promoted to Flag Rank in September 2009 and as a Rear Admiral, his assignments included Assistant Chief of Personnel (HRD) at Naval Headquarters, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet (FOCEF) and Chief of Staff of Southern Naval Command. On promotion to the Rank of Vice Admiral on December 1, 2013, he was appointed as the Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala and thereafter has completed two joint service tenures as Principal Staff Officer at Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, tenanting the billets of Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Operations) and Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Policy Planning & Force Development).

- Capt DK Sharma

Lt Gen Saranjeet Singh assumes Command of White Knight Corps

Lt Gen Saranjeet Singh, YSM, assumed command of the elite White Knight Corps on October 11, 2017 from Lt Gen AK Sharma, YSM, SM.

Lt Gen Saranjeet Singh, YSM, was commissioned in 1981 into the SIKH Light Infantry Regiment. The General officer is an alumnus of DSSC, Wellington, Army War College, Mhow and National Defence College, New Delhi. He is well versed with the terrain and existing operational dynamics of the area South of Pir Panjal having commanded a Brigade and a Division, in this region.

The General officer has also held various operational and staff appointments in field formations and also had tenures in Perspective Planning Directorate and Military Operations Directorate at Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army). He has been an instructor at NDA, Khadakwasla, Army War College, Mhow and a Team Leader at Army Training Team in Botswana. He has also had a tenure in Perspective Planning Directorate and Military Operations Directorate at Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army). Before taking charge of White Knight Corps, the General officer was Chief of Staff at South Western Command. The General officer has been decorated with YSM and GOC-in-C Western Command Commendation Card.

- Col NN Joshi


PHOTOCALLBilateral meeting between

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman and US Secretary of Defense James Mattis in Clark, Philippines.

Bilateral Breakfast of Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman and the Minister for Defense, Singapore Dr Ng Eng Hen at the 4th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) in Philippines on October 24, 2017.

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman meets the Minister of Defence, Russia, Gen Sergei Shoyguat the 4th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) in Philippines on October 24, 2017.

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman meets Minister of Defence, Australia Ms Marise Payne at the 4th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) in Philippines on October 24, 2017.

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman with the Secretary of National Defense, Philippines, Mr Delfin Lorenzana in Clark on her visit to attend the 4th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) in Philippines on October 24, 2017.


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