MS Dhoni, Abhinav Bindra and Dr Deepak Rao Granted Honorary Rank in Territorial Army

MS Dhoni, Abhinav Bindra and Dr Deepak Rao were pipped in by the Army Chief Gen VK Singh today, here. MS Dhoni and Abhinav Bindra have been commissioned as Honorary Lt Colonel and Dr Deepak Rao commissioned as a Honorary Major in the Territorial Army.

MS Dhoni and Abhinav Bindra have been bestowed the honour for their outstanding contribution in the field of sports and their commitment to the Army on various occasions. MS Dhoni has set an example by his unstinted hard work, discipline and supreme dedication. His leading the team from the front, remaining ultra cool in adversities, maintaining excellent physical standards, and giving all credit to his teammates, is very synonymous to the Army way of leadership.

Abhinav Bindra is youth icon and his qualities as a valiant fighter, dedication, hardwork, supreme concentration and perseverance are synonymous to an Army leader.

Deepak Rao is the first Indian to specialise in modern Close Quarter Battle Training (CQB) and has imparted his expertise for 17 years to train soldiers from various Indian forces. He has also been Instructor in Reflex Shooting and Deep Sea Diving. Despite his outstanding achievements he remains committed, selfless and has dedicated his life for Army as an organisation. For his yeomen service to the nation and specifically providing assistance to training of the Armed Forces in Close Quarter Battle, Advanced Commando Combat System and Combating Terrorism, Dr Rao has been bestowed with the honour.

All the three young honorary officers have always followed the ethos and culture of the Indian Army. By donning the Olive Greens, they will be an inspiration to many youngsters of our Nation. As Brand Ambassadors of the Indian Army, they will strengthen the citizen-soldier bonds. Col (Honorary) Anil Habbu, Lt Col (Honorary) Kapil Dev and Lt Col (Honorary) Mohanlal are the other Honorary officers of the Territorial Army.

Field evaluation trials of anti-tank missile soon

From Hindu:

The field evaluation trials (FET) of MBDA Missile System's Pars 3 LR fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile (ATGM), shortlisted alongside Rafael Advanced Defence System's Spike-ER for the Indian Army's weaponised Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) ‘Rudra,' is slated to get under way soon.

“We are waiting for the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited [HAL] to give us the schedule for trials. Hopefully, the dates will be finalised soon,” MBDA's Peter Meuthen told a group of Indian journalists at the company's facility at Fusaro, north of Naples, Italy.


Pars 3 LR boasts a maximum operational range of seven kilometres and is said to possess high jamming resistance. In salvo mode, it can fire up to four missiles in 10 seconds. The missile, in service with the German Army on its UH-Tiger helicopters, was live-fired at Vidsel in Sweden in April this year. “The successful firings matched all Indian operational requirements, but an Indian delegation could not witness it due to administrative reasons,” Mr. Meuthen said.

A Bangalore-based Indian company has been co-opted by MBDA to design and develop a twin launcher, a derivative of the quad launcher fitted on German Tiger helicopter, for the launch of the missile from ALH Rudra. “The twin-launcher has been developed by the Indian company and its production will be done there [in the event of the selection of Pars 3 LR in the competition].”

Simultaneously, MBDA has come out with an eight-missile configuration for the under-development indigenous Light Combat Helicopter (LCH). Pars 3 LR is also in contention to weaponise the 22 attack helicopters being acquired by the Indian Air Force to replace its ageing fleet of Mi-25. MBDA has proposed Pars 3 LR for the Russian MIL Mi-28 helicopter which competes in the IAF evaluation with the ‘Hellfire' anti-armour missile-equipped Apache AH-64 D manufactured by Boeing.

91 Infantry Brigade of the Indian Army visited the French Naval Ship Tonnerre

TRISHAKTI CORPS CELEBRATES THE CORPS OF SIGNAL CENTENARY YEAR

Kolkata-27, May 2010

The Sukhna based Trishakti Corps celebrated the 100^th year of glorious existence of the Corps of Signals on 26 & 27 May 2010. Maj Gen MS Sidhu Chief of Staff of the 33 Corps (Trrishakti) was the chief guest on this occasion.

The Corps of Signal would be completing 100 years of its raising on 15 Feb 2011 and is presently in its 100^th year. It was raised on 15 Feb 1911 with the formation of 31^st and 32^nd Divisional Signal Company at Fatehgarh. Over the years the Corps of Signals has been primarily entrusted to provide Secure, Swift and reliable communication at technical and strategic level for the Indian Army. The personnel of the Corps of Signals are known as the Information Warriors.

The celebration event at Sukhna involved a scintillating performance by 'Dare Devils' the Corps Motorcycle Rider Display team. The team in known for its unmatched and amazing human formations on the motorbikes. The corps of Signals Pipes and Drum Band also put up an enchanting performance which left the audience spell bound.

OPERATION MILAP : INDO-MYANMAR MEDICAL & VET CAMP AT BORDER VILLAGE

A historic joint INDO-MYANMAR medical, dental and veterinary camp organized with coordinated efforts of the Army and the civil administration of both nations at Bokkan, a border town of Myanmar opposite Molcham village of Chandel district in Manipur came to an end today, the 6th May. The two-day camp was arranged by 22 GRENADIERS under the aegis of HQs 26 Sector Assam Rifles, IGAR(South). Under ‘Operation Milap’ which aims at boosting bilateral relations a camp of such magnitude was arranged for the first time across the border by the Indian Army.
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The camp was inaugurated on 05 May by Brig SK Bhanot, Commander, 26 Sector Assam Rifles and several high ranking officials of both nations were present.

Commander-in-Chief of the Myanmar Navy, Vice Admiral Nyan Tun with Indian Army and navy Chiefs

The Commander-in-Chief of the Myanmar Navy, Vice Admiral Nyan Tun with the Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nirmal Verma, in New Delhi on February 22, 2010.



The Commander-in-Chief of the Myanmar Navy, Vice Admiral Nyan Tun with the Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Deepak Kapoor, in New Delhi on February 22, 2010.

India's 65th Staff Course at Defence Services Staff College stresses on jointness

The 65th Staff Course at Defence Services Staff College that completes its mandatory 45 week training in April 2010 becomes the first course to train as per the recently revised training syllabi with far greater emphasis in jointness – more than 50 % of the syllabi consists of joint training of the three services – The Army, Nave and the Air Force.

With a motto – ‘Yudham Pragraya’ meaning ‘to war with wisdom’, the Defence Services Staff College stands tall as the epctome of Indian Military proficiency. Being one of its kind in the world, it is the only institution that provides under the very staff training to officers of Army, Navy and the Air Force alongwith officers of civil services and those of common wealth and friendly foreign countries.

Outlining the aim of this institution which is to train and educate selected officers of the three services in command and staff functions in peace and war, in own service and inter services environment, the present Commandant of DSSC Lt Gen HPS Kler said, “Our aim is to create an atmosphere of professional excellence led by an outstanding faculty with students learning in a supportive, challenging and educational environment, which shapes future leaders to think creatively, reason critically and act decisively.

The origin of this premier Tri-Services institution dates back to 1902 when Lord Kitchner proposed to establish an Indian Staff College to train officers to improve military proficiency on the lines of Staff College Camberley. The approval of the proposal in 1905 let to the establishment of Indian Staff College in Quetta (Now in Pakistan) in 1907. With partition becoming a reality in 1947, the Indian elements of the college moved base to Wellington in Tamil Nadu as an Army Category ‘A’ training establishment.



01 April 1948 saw the first interim course of 20 weeks commencing at the college attended by 46 Army, 02 Air Force and 02 Naval officers with a purely Army syllabi. Today in the 62nd year of its existence, the DSSC has evolved into a true joint training institution with integrated training Syallbi and operational synergy.


Talking of this college Late Field Marshal SHFJ Manekshaw who had been the Commandant of DSSC, said “In 1971 Indo Pak War I was to experience first hand the synergy achieved in battle due to the spirit of jointmanship it ingrains within the Officers of the three services who graduate from this college”.

Lt Gen GM Nair takes over as Military Secretary

Lt Gen GM Nair, SM, VSM assumed charge of Military Secretary today at Army Headquarters in New Delhi.

Born on 17 Jan 1952, Lt Gen Nair did his schooling from Sainik School, Kazhakootam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He joined NDA, Khadakwasla and was commissioned into 1/11 Gorkha Rifles (BATALIK) in 1972 after completion of training at IMA, Dehradun.

The General Officer has been in active service in several operational areas. He commanded 1/11 Gorkha Rifles in Counter Insurgency Operations in Assam and Manipur, Infantry Brigade in Western Sector during OP PARAKRAM, 39 Mountain Division in OP RAKSHAK (J&K) and was GOC 9 Corps prior to assuming appointment of the Military Secretary. He has held several important staff, instructional and foreign assignments. He has been Brigade Major of an Infantry Brigade during OP PAWAN, Military Observer (UNTAG, Namibia) and Instructor as a Brigadier in Higher Command Wing, Army War College, Mhow.

Lt Gen GM Nair is highly qualified in professional career courses in India and abroad. He has done Defence Service Staff College Course, Senior Command and Higher Command Courses in India and has attended US Army War College Course in Carlisle. He is Masters in Defence Studies from Madras University, M Phil in Defence and Management Studies from DAVV, Indore and MS in Strategic Studies from US Army War College.

'KNOW YOUR ARMY EXHIBITION' COMMENCES AT FORT WILLIAM KOLKATA TODAY

'Know Your Army' exhibition for citizens of Kolkata has commenced toady and will conclude tomorrow 31^st Jan 2010 at 4pm. The Exhibition is being hosted to give people an insight into the life in the Army and introduce them to various weapon systems and equipment. This will give the citizens of Kolkata a 'hands on' experience about the various arms and ammunition used by the Army.

The theme of the exhibition is 'Indian Army – Partner in Nation Building'. The aim of the 'Know your Army exposition' is to reach out to the youth of the country and give them a glimpse of the Army. This will attract them towards joining the organization. During the exhibition, the Army would be displaying an underground bunker using which the Soldiers guard our frontiers. Apart form this Antitank guided missile, Early Warning Radars, Nuclear, Biological & Chemical warfare equipment would be also on display. The citizens of Kolkata would also be able to see, hold & click photographs of various small arms and helicopter from the Army Aviation corps.

The exhibition is open for public from 10am to 4pm on Saturday 30^th Jan 2010 and Sunday 31^st Jan 2010. The entry for the exhibition is from George Gate, opposite to Princep Ghat memorial.

FORT WILLIAM TO HOST ‘KNOW YOUR ARMY’ EXHIBITION

The Indian Army is conducting a Know Your Army Exhibition at Fort William on 30^th and 31^st Jan 2010 for citizens of Kolkata. The Exhibition is being hosted to give people an insight into the life in the Army and introduce them to various weapon systems and equipment. This will give the citizens of Kolkata a 'hands on' experience about the various arms and ammunition used by the Army.

The theme of the exhibition is 'Indian Army – Partner in Nation Building'. The aim of the 'Know your Army exposition' is to reach out to the youth of the country and give them a glimpse of the Army. This will attract them towards joining the organization. During the exhibition, the Army would be displaying an underground bunker using which the Soldiers guard our frontiers. Apart form this Antitank guided missile, Early Warning Radars, Nuclear, Biological & Chemical warfare equipment would be also on display. The citizens of Kolkata would also be able to see, hold & click photographs of various small arms and helicopter from the Army Aviation corps.

The exhibition is open for public from 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. The entry for the exhibition is from George Gate, opposite to Princep Ghat memorial.

The Indian Army is one of the largest and the best trained Armies of the world. It is well equipped to defend our country from the external aggressions and provide assistance during any natural calamity. It has a strength of appx 11 lakh personnel and is well organized into various formations for battle readiness at all times. The unique preposition of the Indian Army are its personnel, characterized by valour, sacrifice, fidelity, honour and courage. The citizens of Kolkata visiting the exhibition would get a glimpse of these too.

US approves M777 155mm Light-Weight Towed Howitzers sale to India

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress Jan. 22 of a possible Foreign Military Sale to India of 145 M777 155mm Light-Weight Towed Howitzers with Laser Inertial Artillery Pointing Systems (LINAPS) and associated parts, equipment, training and logistical support for a complete package worth approximately $647 million.

The Government of India has requested a possible sale of 145 M777 155mm Light-Weight Towed Howitzers with Laser Inertial Artillery Pointing Systems (LINAPS), warranty, spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, publications and technical documentation, maintenance, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor representatives’ technical assistance, engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $647 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to strengthen the U.S.-India strategic relationship and to improve the security of an important partner which continues to be an important force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in South Asia.

India intends to use the howitzers to modernize its armed forces and enhance its ability to operate in hazardous conditions. The howitzers will assist the Indian Army to develop and enhance standardization and to improve interoperability with U.S. Soldiers and Marines who use the M777 as their primary means of indirect fire. India will have no difficulty absorbing these weapons into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractors will be, BAE of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; Watervliet Arsenal of Watervliet, New York; Seiler Instrument Company of St Louis, Missouri; Triumph Actuation Systems of Bloomfield, Connecticut; Taylor Devices of North Tonawanda, New York; Hutchinson Industries of Trenton, New Jersey; and Selex, Edinburgh, United Kingdom. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require annual trips to India involving up to eight (8) U.S. Government and contractor representatives for technical reviews/support, training, and in-country trials for a period of approximately two years.
There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale. This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.

Cross country powered harness hang gliding expedition by Arty Team from Hyderabad to Devlali

The Army Adventure Wing’s Nodal Centre for Hang Gliding based at the School of Artillery, Devlali, is conducting a unique and adventurous expedition, the kind of which has never before been done in the country.

The pilots will fly their hang – gliders with special harness that have 120CC, 15HP motor and a carbon – graphite propeller attached. These harnesses give the glider pilot the ability to take off from any large plain ground and cruise at a speed of up to 65kmph for up to three hours.

The expedition is being conducted on the occasion of the 12th Reunion of the Regiment of Artillery and will cover a total distance of approximately 700 kms from Hyderabad to Devlali, touching Solapur and Ahmednagar en-route, over a period of six days. It will flagged off at the Artillery Centre Hyderabad on 28th Jan 2010 by Lt Gen KR Rao, AVSM, VSM, Director General of Artillery and flagged in by Lt Gen Vinod Nayanar, AVSM, Commandant, School of Artillery, Devlali on 30th Jan 2010.

The expedition is being led by Lt Col N Bhadauria.

Succession War

This is my Debut post. So, here is a tidbit from Coomi Kapoor in Indian Express: (Sunday , Jan 24, 2010)

Succession war

The bad blood between Army Chief General Deepak Kapoor and his successor Lt General V K Singh is out in the open after the army land scam in West Bengal. Singh, at present head of the Eastern Command, had recommended punitive action against the concerned generals on the basis of a court of inquiry he had ordered. Singh has targeted the Army Headquarters military secretary, Lt Gen Avadesh Prakash, who had earlier crossed swords with him over a discrepancy in his birth date. Caught in this heavyweight crossfire is Lt General P.K. Rath, former 33 corps Commander, who signed the letter of intent for setting up a school, which was cancelled within 15 days at Singh’s order. In this vitiated atmosphere, there are sceptical interpretations to the recent news that General Kapoor has developed a hearing problem. Will Defence Minister A.K. Antony remain a silent spectator to these unseemly developments?

Lieutenant General VK Singh will be the next Army Chief

Lt Gen VK Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, ADC, presently GOC-in-C, Eastern Command has been appointed the next Chief of the Army Staff in the rank of General with effect from the afternoon of March 31, 2010. The present COAS General Deepak Kapoor, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, ADC retires from service on march 31, 2010.

Lt General VK Singh was commissioned into the Rajput Regiment on June 14, 1970. During his long and distinguished career spanning nearly 40 years, he has serviced in a variety of Command, Staff and Instructional appointments. He participated in the 1971 operations and IPKF operations. He is presently serving as the Eastern Army Commander. Prior to that, he commanded a Corps in the Western sector.

Besides being an ‘Honours Graduate’ of the US Army Infantry School, Georgia, USA, Lt Gen Singh studied at the Defence Services Staff College, the Army War College and the US Army War College, Carlisle.

He is recipient of PVSM, AVSM and YSM awards. He is also one of the Honorary ADCs of the President of India.

Lt General Singh is married to Mrs Bharati and the couple has two daughters. The elder daughter is married to an Army Officer while the younger one is working in the corporate sector.

REACTION OF LIEUTENANT GENERAL VK SINGH

GOC-in- C EASTERN COMMAND

Kolkata : January 22, 2010

On receiving the massage of being the COAS designate, the GOC-in C of Eastern Command VK Singh said, “I am grateful for this honour and the responsibility which our leaders have bestowed on me.

I shall carry out my duties well to lead one of the world’s finest Army.

It will be my endeavor to lead the brave men while keeping up with the best tradition of the Indian Army and upholding the Indian Constitution.”

AFFILIATION CEREMONY – INS TRISHUL AND JAT REGIMENT : 20 January 09

Caption of the photographs

01

Lieutenant General B. S. Nagal , Colonel of the JAT Regiment inspecting to the Guard of Honor during the affiliation ceremony between INS Trishul and JAT Regiment of Indian Army at Naval Dock yard, Mumbai on January 20, 2009.

02

Lieutenant General B. S. Nagal, Colonel of the JAT Regiment receiving the salute during the affiliation ceremony between INS Trishul and JAT Regiment of Indian Army at Naval Dock yard, Mumbai on January 20, 2009.

03 Ceremonial Guard of INS Trishul an JAT Regiment marching past the dais during the affiliation ceremony between INS Trishul and JAT Regiment of Indian Army at Naval Dock yard, Mumbai on January 20, 2009.

04

Lieutenant General B. S. Nagal, Colonel of the JAT Regiment and Rear Admiral S. P. S. Cheema, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet exchanging Charter of Affiliation during the affiliation ceremony between INS Trishul and JAT Regiment of Indian Army at Naval Dock yard, Mumbai on January 20, 2009.

05

Lieutenant General B. S. Nagal, Colonel of the JAT Regiment and Rear Admiral S. P. S. Cheema, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet displaying the special cover released o by the Post Master General during the affiliation ceremony between INS Trishul and JAT Regiment of Indian Army at Naval Dock yard, Mumbai on January 20, 2009.

06

Rear Admiral S. P. S. Cheema, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, presenting a Memento to Lieutenant General B. S. Nagal, Colonel of the JAT Regiment during the affiliation ceremony between INS Trishul and JAT Regiment of Indian Army at Naval Dock yard, Mumbai on January 20, 2009.

Indian Naval Ship Trishul, a state-of-the-art multi-role Stealth Frigate, was today affiliated with the JAT Regiment, one of the most decorated infantry regiments of the Indian Army, in a splendid ceremony held onboard INS Trishul at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. The Charter of Affiliation was signed by Captain Ajendra Bahadur Singh, Commanding Officer of INS Trishul and Brigadier RK Sharma, SM, Commandant of the JAT Regimental Centre, in the presence of Rear Admiral Surinder Pal Singh Cheema, AVSM, SM, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet and Lieutenant General BS Nagal, AVSM, SM, Colonel of the JAT Regiment, who is presently the Commander-in-Chief of the Strategic Forces Command. A special Postal Cover was also released by the Postal Department to mark the historic occasion.

Immaculately dressed in white and olive green uniforms, with martial tunes played by the combined Naval and JAT Regimental bands, a joint Guard of Honour was presented to Lt Gen BS Nagal to begin the ceremony. Speaking on the occasion, Rear Admiral SPS Cheema, the commissioning Commanding Officer of INS Trishul, stated that the emerging nature of warfare, including low intensity conflicts, demands synergy in combat through jointness and integration of minds. This unique and enduring partnership would foster spirit de corps, camaraderie, understanding service ethos and catalyzing combat potential between all ranks. Lieutenant General Nagal termed the affiliation of the JAT Regiment with INS Trishul as historic, as both the units symbolised the 'Cutting Edge' of their respective forces. He underscored the importance of joint operations and stated that there was enhanced emphasis on a joint approach by the three services for success in operations.

The 'raison d'etre' of affiliation between fighting forces is to act as a force multiplier by promoting better understanding of each other's strengths and serves to maximise the combat potential of the Indian Armed Forces at the time of reckoning. It also fosters a deep understanding of each others service ethos, customs, traditions and sharing of new operational concepts. A few previous instances of such affiliations between units of the Army and the Navy include the affiliation between INS Viraat with Garhwal Rifles, INS Rajput with Rajput Regiment, INS Mumbai with Maratha Light Infantry, INS Talwar with 16 Cavalry and more recently the INS Beas with Grenadiers.

This affiliation is a special bonding between two frontline units with a glorious history. The JAT Regiment is one of the most battle hardened Infantry Regiments of the Indian Army. The long list of 'Battle Honours' truly reflect the indomitable courage and exemplary valour displayed by the Regiment in all operations, both pre and post independence. The regiment has won 19 battle honours between 1839 to 1947 and post independence 5 battle honours, eight Mahavir Chakras, eight Kirti Chakras, 32 Shaurya Chakras, 39 Vir Chakras and 170 Sena Medals. The JAT Regiment has the distinction of winning the prestigious 'Best Marching Contingent' award during the Republic Day Parade in 2007.

The legacy of the erstwhile INS Trishul, a 2100 tonnes Whitby class Frigate, started with the commissioning on 13 Jan 1960 at the Harland and Wolff Shipbuilders in Belfast, UK. She served the distinction and pride for 32 years and won Battle Honours in 1961 during Goa Liberation and in the 1971 Indo-Pak war where she was part of 'Operation Python' – the second daredevil missile attack on Pakistani ports of Karachi, Gwadar and Pasni on 04 Dec. She was also the afloat headquarters of the Indian Peace Keeping Force during Operation Pawan in 1987-89. She was finally paid off on 31 Aug 1922.

INS Trishul in her new reincarnation has inherited the illustrious legacy of her distinguished predecessor. She was commissioned on 25 Jun 2003 as the second of the three 4000 tonnes stealth frigates acquired by the Indian Navy. The ship, with an impressive array of 21^st century weapons and sensors, remains a frontline man-of-war of the Indian Navy, ever ready to go into harm's way when called upon to do so. Her motto – 'Tough, Tenacious and Triumphant' amply describe the resolute spirit and the readiness for 'Any task - Any time – Any where'.

Lt Gen BS Nagal presented an impressive crest to the ship and Rear Admiral SPS Cheema presented a model of INS Trishul to the Colonel of the JAT Regiment during the affiliation. The ceremony was attended by former Commanding Officers of INS Trishul and Officers of the JAT Regiment both serving and retired, besides senior Army and Naval officers along with their families.

Lt general Pradeep Khanna takes over as Goc-in-C Soutehrn Command : Jan 2, 2009

1. Lt Gen Pradeep Khanna, VSM, ADC was born on 07 Feb 1951 at Modinagar (UP). He did his schooling from St Luke's and Govt College, Solan.

2. An alumni of National Defence Academy (NDA), Gen Pradeep Khanna was commissioned from Indian Military Academy on 20 Dec 1970 into 20 LANCERS (Armoured Corps). The Gen Offr has seen operational service at Western Frontier during 1971 war with Pakistan, while with his regiment. The Gen Offr has served as Brigade Major of a Mountain Brigade, Staff Officer to Commandant Defence Services Staff College and Military Advisor to General Officer Commanding in Chief, Northern Command. Later, he also had the privilege of commanding 20 LANCERS at Ambala in the rank of Colonel.

3. A consistent front runner the officer was one of the first few in his batch to do the Staff College, Senior Command and Higher Command. Gen Offr was selected to be Col Gen Staff of an Armoured Division and later Director Complaint Advisory Board at Chief of Army Staff Secretariat where he was awarded Chief of the Army Staff Commendation Card. Later, he took over the command of an Armd Bde and was nominated to attend the prestigious Royal College of Defence Studies Course (UK). He was posted as Director Faculty of Studies at Army War College after the RCDS course.

4. The Gen Offr commanded an Armoured Division with distinction. During this assignment, he contributed immensely towards improving the habitat for Offr accn and façade of Army HQ. He has been decorated with Vishisht Seva Medal in recognition of his services in the planning and execution of modernization of Sena Bhawan as Additional Director General Adm and Coord.

5. On promotion, the General Officer assumed command of the elite 21 Corps and very successfully conducted the World Military Games at Secunderabad and Corps Level Exercise, 'DAKSHIN SHAKTI' during Mar 2008.

6. The Gen Offr was appointed Chief of Staff, HQ Northern Command in 2008, where he was instrumental in giving a distinctly discernable and widely appreciated thrust towards a refined organizational jointmanship in training, planning and execution of vision of a modern and progressive future Army.

8. The Gen Offr has been appointed as Honorary Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to the President of India on 09 Mar 2008. He is also the Coloel Commandant of five Armoured Regts.

9. The Gen Offr is widely considered to be a thinking soldier who is a thorough professional. He took over as GOC-in-C Southern Command wef 01 Jan 2009.

"SOLDIERING ON"- A NOSTALGIC JOURNEY THROUGH 100 YEARS: Jan 2, 2009

Rare photographs, memorable documents and vignettes of the heroics of the Indian Armed Forces are the hallmarks of the Coffee Table Book "Soldiering On" released by the Defence Minister Shri AK Antony to commemorate the Centenary of the Sainik Samachar here today.

'Soldiering On…' presents a panoramic view of the major events in the life of the nation and to some extent, of the world, as reported by Fauji Akhbar/Sainik Samachar since its inception. It also reflects the trials and tribulations of some of the epoch making chapters of Indian history and world history.

The book "Soldiering On..." has been divided into four chapters. The first chapter covers the trivia related to the magazine, while the second chapter covers the period from the date of its inception in 1909 till 1947 when the British soldiers left India . This portion of the book includes archival material and photographs connected with the declaration of Delhi as capital, the First World War, the early stages of formation of all the wings of Armed Forces and its major institutions, the Second World War, the partition and India's independence. Two rare pages of this chapter, -"Down the Memory Lane" stand out for their historic value. The first one titled "The Sun Set on the British Empire" depicts the lowering of the Union Jack at the Residency in Lucknow on Aug 13, 1947. This flag was not brought down for a period of 90 years since the mutiny of 1857. The flag was the pride of British rule and a symbol of their empire which never saw a sunset. The second story is about "Comrades' Party", which was held on Aug 6, 1947 in New Delhi to say goodbye to departing comrades of Indian Army who had joined Pakistan. The sentiments expressed by the two sides at that moment is a stark reminder of how the time has changed since then and the bonds that existed between the two at that time.

The next chapter of the book titled "India Arrives", is a journey of free India. The chapter captures the trials and tribulations of the nation during some of the epoch making events after independence, the heroic defence of Kashmir in 1947-48, integration of Hyderabad, Goa & Diu to India, the saga of incredible heroics of Indian troops in 1962, the rise of Indian defence industry and the surge towards self-reliance, the death of India's greatest sons like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri, incredible tank battles won by India in 1965 war, 1971 victory and the liberation of Bangladesh, India's rise as a nuclear and space power, the saga of heroism atop Kargil peaks in 1999 and India's growing participation in International military exercises.

Among the many articles and photographs, some of the memorable pages include a photograph of a young boy of 'Kashmiri National Militia' saluting Pt. Nehru in Rajouri in 1948 along with a banner saying "We Will Defend Kashmir with Our Blood". There are photographs which show Indian troops manning a lonely post at Chushul and going on a patrol next to Pangong Lake in Ladakh in 1962. The book has dug out a rare photograph of Indira Gandhi donating all her 367 gms of gold jewellery to the national relief fund to support the 1962 war effort. Then there is an incredible photograph of a man holding tri-colour atop a destroyed house in Khemkaran in 1965 which saw one of the fiercest tank battle of modern times ,which India won and turned the direction of the war on its head. There are quite a few pictures of Indian troops inside Lahore district as they had relentlessly pushed forward in Punjab sector inside Pakistan. The book has also captured an incident which took place at Nathu La in 1967. The chapter has captured some momentous events of 1971 war like the documents recovered from the destroyed and sunk Pakistani submarine Ghazi from under the sea.

The book is a record of the indomitable courage and heroics of Indian Armed forces. The pictures and stories reinforce the fact that whenever any adversary has dared to mess up with India's security or territorial integrity , Indian Armed Forces have risen to the challenge and given the enemy a crushing reply. Each picture tells a thousand tales about the sacrifice made by the brave men of Indian Armed Forces and their saga of bravery.

The book features some rare pictures of Indian troops in action on foreign soil during UN peace keeping missions in Korea, Congo, Gaza , Indo-China among many such operations.

Prior to the Independence the magazine wrote with the perspective of the British ruling class. Sainik Samachar has aptly written an editorial note along with these articles to explain the British perspective to the discerning readers.

The exciting anthology doesn't end here. One gets to see some rare documents like the ones describing the hour by hour account of rebellious actions by Indian Naval Ratings in 1946 at one of the ports and an announcement about the total Indian casualties in the action. INA trials also find a place here. Then there is a moving address by Jawaharlal Nehru for the troops and people on the occasion of Diwali in which he had expressed his pain, anguish and sympathy for the troops on the Front during the tough winter conditions and hostile circumstances.

Sainik Samachar has been periodically publishing special articles by some of the most eminent authors and persons of the India in their younger days . The list includes Khushwant Singh, Mulk Raj Anand, Amita Malik, etc. Chapter 4 of the book, contains interesting articles written by these authors. The book has also traced the history, evolution and the role of the Directorate of Public Relations of Ministry of Defence , which has played an extremely important role for the Armed forces of India in war and peace.

'Sainik Samachar', started its journey one hundred years ago. On January 2, 1909, Fauji Akhbar (rechristened as Sainik Samachar on April 4, 1954) saw the light of day as an Urdu weekly to provide army personnel with "a summary of news with a bias.' Considering the level of extant technology for printing, communication network for collection of material and infrastructure for distribution of the product, it is not surprising to note that Fauji Akhbar received instant popularity among its clients as a single window for vital information that mattered to them. During its chequered history, Fauji Akhbar has travelled from Shimla (where its office was originally located whilst published from Allahabad) to Lahore, back to Shimla and then to Delhi. Its popularity was at its peak during the World War II when an overseas edition was launched from Cairo for the benefit of Indian troops deployed in far-off theaters. The print-order of Fauji Akhbar and its special bi-weekly supplement Jang Ki Khabren was in excess of three lakhs at that time. The publication of, Fauji Akhbar was suspended temporarily immediately after Independence due to sudden migration of staff and the printer. however, it bounced back with renewed vigour in no time. The magazine is now published in 13 Indian languages and English.

Overall this book is a collector's item and in a unique treasure of information, emotions and photographs of the journey of the last 100 years of India. The publication of the book is a great attempt to compile, and condense a creditable piece of document for posterity.

“HAND IN HAND 2008” CULMINATES SUCCESSFULLY : December 12, 2008

CAPTIONS

PHOTO 01 In an informal chat - Lieutanent General Noble Thamburaj, GOC in C Southern Command and Lieutanent General Ma Xiaotian, Deputy Chief of General Staff, People's Liberation Army at the grand stand during the Exercise "Hand in Hand" on 12 Dec (Friday).

PHOTO 02 Commandoes slithering out of an IAF MI-8 helicopter during the final assault of Sino Indian Exercise "Hand in Hand" on 12 Dec (Friday).

PHOTO 03 "Hand in Hand", Lieutanent General Noble Thamburaj, GOC in C Southern Command and Lieutanent General Ma Xiaotian, Deputy Chief of General Staff, People's Liberation Army shaking hands after the closing ceremony of the Counter Terrorism Exercise.

PHOTO 04 Lieutanent General Noble Thamburaj, GOC in C Southern Command and Lieutanent General Ma Xiaotian, Deputy Chief of General Staff, People's Liberation inspecting a combined Guard of Honour marking the end of the Sino Indian Exercise "Hand in Hand" on 12 Dec (Friday).

PHOTO 05 Lieutanent General Ma Xiaotian, Deputy Chief of General Staff, People's Liberation Army bidding goodbye to the contingents after the closing ceremony.

PHOTO 06 Lieutanent General Noble Thamburaj, GOC in C Southern Command presenting certicate of merit to a Chinese soldier during the Closing ceremony of Exercise "Hand in Hand -08".

The first ever Sino-Indian Exercise on Indian soil "Hand in Hand 2008" concluded successfully today at Belgaum, Karnataka. The exercise was aimed at enhancing inter –operability in countering terrorism by sharing and learning from each other.

Speaking at the Closing ceremony, Lieutanent General Noble Thumburaj, GOC IN C Southern Command of Indian Army said "The Exercise has nurtured strong bonds amongst the troops which will further augment bilateral relations between the two nations. Both the armies are part of universal forefront to eradicate anti social malice from the present world scenario through collective operational capabilities. This has been possible through the joint India-China military exercise wherein we have been able to hone out tactical abilities at grass root level".

Expressing similar sentiments Lieutanant General Ma Xiaotian, Deputy Chief of General Staff, People's Liberation Army said that as good neighbours and friends we will take the road to peace and harmony in the region and the world. The General also praised the closed coordination between both the armies and stated that military relations have achieved heartening progress. He added that the joint training was an important symbol of friendship.

Prior to the closing ceremony, a final Counter terrorism operation was carried out by a combined contingent from the Indian and People's Liberation Army. The operation codenamed "Exercise Atank Vinash" was undertaken to capture and neutralize militants from two adjacent villages which were especially created for the exercise. Commandoes slithered down from MI-8 helocopters of the Indian Air Force and quicky surrounded the militant hideouts. Using various tactics they neutralized a number of militants and recovered a large number of arms and ammunition. During the simulated exercise special care was taken that minimum inconvenience was caused to the civilians. The demonstration was highly appreciated by everyone present.

Affilaiation Ceremony:INS Beas and Grenadiers Regiment

INS Beas, the latest ship of the Brahmaputra class, was on 30 May 08, affiliated to the Grenadiers Regiment, one of the most esteemed and battle hardened regiments of the Indian Army, at an impressive ceremony held onboard INS Beas berthed at the Naval Dockyard Mumbai. The charter of affiliation was signed by Lt Gen SS Dhillon, the Colonel Commandant of the Grenadiers and Rear Admiral Anil Chopra, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet. A special cover was released by the Postal department to mark the historic occasion.

The affiliation is in keeping with the tradition of affiliating warships of the Indian Navy with specific Army Units. INS Rajput was the first Naval ship to be affiliated to the Rajput Regiment of the Army, which was followed by several other ships of the Indian Navy including INS Viraat with the Garhwal Regiments. Continuing this trend, affiliation of BEAS with Grenadiers will further infuse a spirit of jointmanship and esprit-de-corps. Immaculately dressed in white uniform the Naval band along with the Pipe band of the Grenadiers played the martial tunes while a joint Guard of Honour was presented to Lt Gen SS Dhillon to begin the ceremony.

Welcoming the officers and the men of Grenadiers Regiment, Rear Admiral Anil Chopra, Fleet Commander Western Fleet, said that future conflict will be fought jointly by the three services. The affiliation of the Grenadiers and INS Beas is a step in this direction to further understand mutual operational requirements. Joint training during the peace time will help in honing skills to fight the war.

Addressing the media, Lt General SS Dhillon stated that, a new chapter has been added in the history of the two services with this affiliation. He further said that the Grenadiers and BEAS have participated in the pre and post Independence wars and have won battle honours for the Country. He was confident that this trend will continue in the future as well.

The ceremony was attended by former Commanding Officers of INS Beas and Officers of the Grenadiers Regiment both serving and retired, besides senior Army and Naval officers along with their families.

Photo Caption

Affiliation 01

Photo Shows: Jointmanship displayed by the combined guard of Naval Ship Beas & Grenadiers Regiment while taking post.

Affiliation 02

Photo shows: Rear Admiral Anil Chopra, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet (Right) and Lt Gen SS Dhillon, Colonel Commandant the Grenadiers Regiment exchanging Charter of Affiliation after signing.

Affiliation 03

Photo Shows: Jointmanship displayed by the men of Naval Band & Pipe band of the Grenadiers Regiment who are ready to play martial tunes during the affiliation ceremony.

Joint Army Navy sailing expedition flagged off

Photocaptions

Pix1: The sailing expedition cast off from Kochi

Pix2: The sailing expedition being flagged off by Rear Admiral Jamwal and Maj Gen GS Narang

Pix3: Maj Gen GS Narang presenting a memento to the Southern Naval Command

Pix4: The sailing expedition prior to Flag Off from Kochi.

A joint sailing expedition by the Indian Army and Indian Navy to Mumbai was Flagged Off from the Naval Base by Rear Admiral SS Jamwal, Chief of Staff of Southern Naval Command and Major General GS Narang, General Officer Commanding 41 Artillery Division. The sailing expedition commemorates the 12^th reunion of the Regiment of Artillery and is being undertaken in three sail boats of J-24 Class. Lieutenant Commander Niel Manjooran, leads the team with two officers from the Indian Army and 17 Soldiers and Sailors.

Such joint ventures between the Army and Navy got fresh impetus post the affiliation of the Naval Gunnery School, INS Dronacharya with the Indian Army's Artillery School at Devlali in August 2008. The joint Gunners team is expected to reach Mumbai on 3^rd February where they would be Flagged In by the Director General of the Corps of Artillery of the Indian Army.