Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair, Director General Medical Services (DGMS – Army) and Senior Colonel Commandant, inaugurated a state-of-the-art MRI Center at the Base Hospital Delhi Cantt (BHDC). The advanced imaging facility represents a significant step in enhancing diagnostic capabilities, ensuring cutting-edge medical care for patients.
Commitment to Advanced Medical Care
The newly inaugurated MRI Center is equipped with advanced imaging technology, enabling more precise diagnoses and better patient outcomes. This initiative underscores the Army Medical Corps’ (AMC) dedication to leveraging modern medical advancements for the benefit of its personnel and their families.
Visit to Staff Surgeon Complex
The General Officer also visited the newly augmented Staff Surgeon complex, which highlights the Army’s emphasis on family-centered services and the well-being of its personnel. The upgraded facility is designed to provide efficient and comprehensive medical care, further reflecting AMC’s commitment to excellence in healthcare.
Strengthening Medical Infrastructure
These developments at BHDC align with the AMC’s vision of continually improving healthcare delivery systems and ensuring access to the best medical services for the Armed Forces community.
Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair’s visit and inauguration of these facilities reiterate the Army’s focus on creating a robust healthcare ecosystem, blending compassion with advanced medical innovation.
In a meaningful gesture under Operation Sadbhavana, the Indian Army handed over Cognitive Enrichment Learning Materials to Riglam Hostel, Saboo, Ladakh, in a ceremony held on 17 December 2024.
Supporting Holistic Development
The initiative aims to contribute to the holistic development of children in Ladakh by providing them with resources that enhance their learning and cognitive growth. This effort underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to empowering local communities and fostering educational excellence.
Ceremony Highlights
The event was presided over by Brigadier SK Dalal, Officiating General Officer Commanding (GOC), Leh Sub Area, who highlighted the importance of education in shaping the future of the nation and emphasized the Army’s dedication to supporting the aspirations of the region’s youth.
Operation Sadbhavana: A Catalyst for Progress
Operation Sadbhavana initiatives continue to serve as a bridge of goodwill, aiming to improve infrastructure, education, and overall quality of life in remote areas like Ladakh. The distribution of learning materials is a step toward ensuring that children in the region have access to tools that nurture their academic and personal growth.
This gesture reaffirms the Indian Army’s commitment to nation-building and fostering strong ties with the communities it serves, ensuring a brighter future for the children of Ladakh.
The 106th Convocation Ceremony of the Military College of Electronics and Mechanical Engineering (MCEME), Secunderabad, was held on 17 December 2024, celebrating the academic achievements of the TES-42 and EMEODE-105 courses. The event saw the officers being conferred B.Tech degrees from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) by the Honourable Governor of Telangana, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Governor’s Address: A Call for Nation Building
In his convocation address, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma congratulated the graduating officers and their proud parents for their remarkable achievements. He encouraged the graduates to prioritize “Nation First”, remain at the forefront of technological advancements, and contribute to India’s defense capabilities.
Quoting the Sanskrit poet Bhartrihari, the Governor highlighted the importance of character and habits in shaping not only an individual’s destiny but also the progress of the nation.
Exhibition of Technological Innovations
The ceremony featured an impressive exhibition of innovative projects developed by the graduating officers. The projects showcased advancements in emerging technologies and reflected the graduates’ technical expertise and commitment to the spirit of Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defense technology.
Key Highlights of the Ceremony
Officers of TES-42 and EMEODE-105 courses received their B.Tech degrees.
Graduates displayed cutting-edge innovations that aligned with India’s vision of self-reliance in defense.
The Governor emphasized continuous learning, integrity, and a nation-first approach in his speech.
MCEME: A Hub of Excellence
The convocation underscored the pivotal role of MCEME in equipping young officers with the knowledge and skills required to tackle modern challenges. It reaffirmed the college’s commitment to fostering technical excellence and leadership in the Armed Forces.
This memorable event not only marked the culmination of rigorous academic training but also inspired the graduates to dedicate themselves to nation-building, leveraging their technical aptitude to bolster India’s defense capabilities.
Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Spear Corps, visited the Special National Integration Camp of the NCC in Wokha, Nagaland.
Promoting National Integration
The 10-day camp, aimed at fostering national integration, is being attended by 494 cadets, including 259 girl cadets. The camp offers a unique blend of activities such as treks, quizzes, and sports competitions, while also providing an immersive experience of the 17 tribes of Nagaland.
Nagaland Day Celebrations
The Corps Commander inaugurated the Nagaland Day celebrations, a vibrant event that showcased the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the state. The celebrations were a reflection of the spirit of unity and diversity, which is central to the ethos of the NCC and the nation.
Interaction and Inspiration
Lt Gen Pendharkar interacted with the cadets, commending their enthusiasm and participation in the camp’s activities. He inspired them to become responsible citizens and to actively contribute to nation-building through discipline, leadership, and service.
A Vision for the Future
The camp not only enhances the cadets’ understanding of India’s diverse cultures but also instills values of unity, camaraderie, and patriotism. The visit by the GOC underscored the importance of such initiatives in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow and strengthening the fabric of the nation.
The Spear Corps recently felicitated four officers from Manipur who have been commissioned into the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force.
A Moment of Pride for Manipur
Senior officials from the Assam Rifles formation, under the Spear Corps, interacted with the newly commissioned officers and their proud parents during the ceremony. The officials extended their heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for a bright and successful future in their respective branches of the Armed Forces.
Honoring Excellence
The event was a testament to the dedication, hard work, and commitment of these young officers, reflecting the growing representation of the Northeast in the Indian Armed Forces. Their achievements not only bring pride to their families but also inspire countless youth in the region to aim for excellence in service to the nation.
This celebration underscores the commitment of the Indian Armed Forces to fostering talent from every corner of the country while strengthening ties with the communities they serve.
Major Mukund Varadarajan, Ashok Chakra (AC), remains a shining example of courage and selflessness. An officer in the Rajput Regiment of the Indian Army, Major Mukund achieved greatness not just in life but also in martyrdom. His bravery during a counter-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir earned him India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, the Ashok Chakra, posthumously.
Here are six inspiring facts about the heroic Major Mukund Varadarajan, whose legacy continues to inspire millions.
1. A Passionate Dreamer Who Chose Duty Over Comfort
From a young age, Mukund dreamed of serving the nation. Despite his father’s initial plans to admit him to a Sainik School, circumstances delayed this path. Mukund pursued higher education, earning a master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism, and even worked briefly in a call center. However, his dream of donning the uniform never wavered.
He joined the Indian Army through the Short Service Commission in 2004, graduating with honors from the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai.
2. A Dedicated Son Who Always Put Family First
Mukund maintained a close bond with his family, especially his mother. He would call home weekly, often speaking to her for hours. Though his mother initially opposed his decision to join the Army, Mukund’s unwavering passion won her support.
His words, “The Army is my life,” often resonated during their conversations, showing his dedication to the country and his family.
3. A Heroic Leader in Life and Death
Major Mukund led an operation in Shupiyan, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 25, 2014, to neutralize three heavily armed terrorists. Despite being grievously injured, he eliminated the terrorists, preventing further harm to civilians. His valor and leadership ensured the success of the mission, but it cost him his life.
His final words, “Please take care of my parents, wife, and child,” underline his selflessness even in his last moments.
4. A Global Contributor
Mukund served in Lebanon as part of a United Nations peacekeeping mission, where his leadership and service were lauded. This experience showcased his global outlook and commitment to maintaining peace beyond India’s borders, adding another feather to his illustrious cap.
5. A Family Man Who Cherished His Loved Ones
Despite his demanding career, Mukund cherished time with his family. He was a loving husband to his wife Indhu and a doting father to their young daughter. Tragically, he spent only six months with his daughter before his untimely demise. He had planned to surprise his wife with a visit in May 2014, but fate had other plans.
6. An Eternal Inspiration
In recognition of his ultimate sacrifice, Major Mukund Varadarajan was posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award. His memory lives on at the Officers Training Academy, where a bust was unveiled to honor his bravery. Mukund’s story continues to inspire countless young Indians to follow in his footsteps and serve the nation with unwavering dedication.
Conclusion
Major Mukund Varadarajan’s life exemplifies the ideals of courage, commitment, and sacrifice. His story serves as a reminder of the indomitable spirit of India’s armed forces, whose heroes lay down their lives so that the nation can live in peace. We owe our gratitude to warriors like Major Mukund, whose bravery continues to inspire generations to uphold the values of honor and duty.
Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Spear Corps, visited an Assam Rifles unit in Mokokchung, Nagaland, to review their operational preparedness.
Acknowledging Commitment and High Morale
During the visit, the Corps Commander assessed the unit’s operational readiness and lauded the troops for their professional commitment, dedication, and high morale in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Interaction with Ex-Servicemen
Lt Gen Pendharkar also took the opportunity to interact with Ex-Servicemen in the area. He expressed his gratitude for their continued role in nation-building, recognizing their contributions both during and after their service in the Armed Forces.
Focus on Operational Excellence
The visit reaffirmed the Indian Army and Assam Rifles’ commitment to ensuring operational efficiency and fostering strong ties with veterans and the local population, reflecting the ethos of service and nation-first dedication.
As part of the National Integration Tour under Operation Sadbhavna, a team comprising 35 students and 4 teachers from various villages of East Sikkim had the unique opportunity to interact with Lt Gen RC Srikanth, Chief of Staff (COS), Headquarters Eastern Command, at Fort William, Kolkata.
A Unique Learning Experience
The tour, organized to foster national integration and provide exposure to the youth, allowed the students to participate in the Vijay Diwas 2024 celebrations. They witnessed grand military spectacles, which highlighted the valor, discipline, and rich traditions of the Indian Armed Forces.
Broadening Horizons
The interaction with Lt Gen RC Srikanth and participation in the Vijay Diwas events gave the students an opportunity to:
Gain exposure to the culture, ethos, and operations of the Indian Armed Forces.
Interact with senior military personnel and learn about their dedication to the nation.
Broaden their perspectives by engaging with diverse personalities and experiences.
Operation Sadbhavna: Promoting Unity and Growth
Under Op Sadbhavna, the Indian Army remains committed to fostering harmony, integration, and development in remote regions. Initiatives like these aim to inspire young minds, instill a sense of pride, and encourage them to contribute positively to the nation’s growth.
This memorable experience will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the students, motivating them to aim higher and recognize the significance of unity and national pride.
Acting on specific intelligence, troops of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles, under the Spear Corps, conducted joint search operations in the hill and valley regions of Manipur. The operations spanned across the districts of Churachandpur, Chandel, Imphal East, and Kangpokpi, in close coordination with Manipur Police and other security forces.
Significant Recoveries
The joint operations led to the recovery of:
29 weapons, including snipers, automatic weapons, rifles, pistols, and country-made mortars.
Single-barrel rifles, grenades, and large quantities of ammunition.
Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet equipment and other war-like stores.
Coordinated Effort for Security
The successful operation highlights the synergy between the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and local security forces in tackling insurgency, arms proliferation, and ensuring stability in the region. The recovery of advanced communication equipment, alongside weaponry, underscores the critical role of timely intelligence and swift action in maintaining security and preventing further threats.
Commitment to Peace and Security
The Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and Manipur Police remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding the state and ensuring peace in the region, while continuing operations to counter illicit activities and threats to national security.
The 11th batch of BSc Nursing students at the College of Nursing, Command Hospital, Lucknow, commenced their four-year professional training with great enthusiasm and solemnity.
Lamp Lighting Ceremony
A traditional ‘Lamp Lighting’ ceremony was held on 17 December, symbolizing the beginning of their journey in nursing—a profession dedicated to service, care, and compassion. The first-year students took the Nurses’ Pledge, committing themselves to their vital role in healthcare and upholding the highest standards of nursing ethics and patient care.
Recognition of Excellence
Lt Gen Mukesh Chadha, Chief of Staff, Central Command, graced the occasion as the chief guest. He honored meritorious students for their outstanding achievements, motivating them to continue striving for excellence in both academics and practical training.
Commitment to Healthcare
The event emphasized the significance of nursing as an indispensable part of the healthcare system, highlighting the dedication, skill, and compassion required to excel in this noble profession.
The commencement of training marks the beginning of a promising journey for these future healthcare professionals, ensuring they are equipped to serve the nation with competence and care.
