New Delhi, February 15, 2025 – In a significant step towards bolstering the defence ties between India and Japan, Lt Gen Ajay Chandpuria, AVSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Vajra Corps, recently reviewed the training and preparedness of the Indian Army contingent set to participate in the upcoming Exercise Dharma Guardian-VI. The exercise, scheduled to take place in Japan from February to March 2025, aims to enhance military cooperation and interoperability between the two nations.

During his inspection, Lt Gen Chandpuria commended the exceptional training and high morale of the Indian soldiers, emphasizing the importance of embracing best practices and strengthening camaraderie. “The contingent’s readiness and spirit are commendable. I urge them to represent India with pride on the global stage, showcasing our commitment to peace and security,” he stated, highlighting the significance of the exercise in fostering stronger bilateral relations.

Exercise Dharma Guardian, now in its sixth iteration, has become a cornerstone of the India-Japan defence relationship, which has seen a steady increase in military engagements over the years. This joint exercise not only facilitates tactical level training but also promotes mutual understanding and respect between the Indian Army and the Japanese Ground Self-Defence Force.

The review comes at a time when the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region is at the forefront of global security discussions. With India and Japan both advocating for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, such exercises are pivotal in reinforcing their shared vision and operational capabilities.

The Indian contingent’s participation in Exercise Dharma Guardian-VI is part of a series of engagements that include previous iterations of the exercise, as well as other joint military exercises like Veer Guardian and JIMEX, the latter focusing on maritime security. These activities underscore the deepening military-to-military ties, which are complemented by defence technology cooperation and agreements on security information sharing.

Lt Gen Chandpuria’s visit and the upcoming exercise are timely, coming in the wake of recent developments in defence cooperation between India and Japan, including the signing of agreements on defence equipment and technology cooperation. This exercise is expected to further this momentum, ensuring that both nations are well-prepared to address contemporary security challenges collaboratively.

The Indian Army’s participation in Exercise Dharma Guardian-VI, under the leadership of Lt Gen Ajay Chandpuria, is a testament to India’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities through international cooperation, while also reinforcing the strategic partnership with Japan.

In a recent visit to the forward areas of Dagger Division and Vajr Division, Lieutenant General M.V. Suchindra Kumar, the Army Commander of Northern Command, conducted a thorough review of the operational preparedness of these formations on February 14, 2025.

Accompanied by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Chinar Corps, Lt. Gen. Kumar assessed the readiness of the troops, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high levels of professionalism amidst the challenging security situation in the region.

During his visit, Lt. Gen. Kumar also inspected the Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR) training node in Uri and the Integrated training node at Panzgam. He was briefed on the current security scenario, recent counter-terrorism operations, and the initiatives aimed at fostering a soldier-citizen connection.

The Army Commander commended all ranks for their dedication in upholding the sanctity of the Line of Control (LC) and praised their professionalism in handling complex security challenges.

The visit underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to ensuring peace and stability in Kashmir, while also highlighting the importance of training and operational readiness in counter-terrorism efforts.

The efforts to maintain strong community ties through soldier-citizen connect initiatives were also recognized as crucial for the overall strategy in the region.

In a significant visit underscoring the Indian Army’s commitment to medical excellence and operational readiness, Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair, AVSM, VSM, the Director General of Medical Services (Army), visited Rangapahar Military Station on February 13, 2025.

During her visit, Lt Gen Nair, who is also the Senior Colonel Commandant, engaged with Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar, AVSM, YSM, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Spear Corps, to assess and enhance the medical facilities and operational preparedness of the troops stationed there.

The visit included a thorough inspection of the medical echelons within the formation. Lt Gen Nair was particularly impressed by the dedication and motivation of the medical personnel, known as the #Spear Healers, who provide critical care under challenging conditions.

She lauded their efforts in maintaining high standards of medical support, emphasizing the importance of their selfless commitment to the well-being of the soldiers.

Lt Gen Nair’s visit comes shortly after the Chief of Army Staff, Gen Manoj Pande, conducted a similar inspection at the same location, highlighting the continuous focus of the Indian Army on ensuring that its forces are operationally ready and medically well-supported, especially in the strategic North Eastern region.

The presence of high-ranking officials like Lt Gen Nair and Lt Gen Pendharkar at Rangapahar Military Station not only boosts the morale of the stationed troops but also signifies the Army’s proactive approach in addressing the unique challenges faced by its personnel in remote and difficult terrains.

Lt Gen Nair’s visit concluded with a call to action for all personnel to continue providing exceptional medical care, reinforcing the Army’s ethos of service and readiness in the face of adversity. This visit is a testament to the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to maintain its operational effectiveness through robust medical support systems.

In a significant leadership transition within the Indian Armed Forces, Maj Gen Vinod Kumar Patra, a distinguished ophthalmologist, has assumed the role of Commandant & Chief Instructor at the Officers Training College, Army Medical Corps (AMC) Centre & College.

The appointment was effective from 10th February 2025, as announced by the Directorate General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS).

Before taking up his new position, Maj Gen Patra served with distinction as Brig Med at HQ 101 Area, Eastern Command, where he contributed significantly to medical services operations.

His expertise as an ophthalmologist adds to his impressive military career, reflecting his dedication to both medical practice and military leadership.

The ceremony marking his assumption of command was attended by several senior military officials, underscoring the importance of this role in training future medical officers of the Indian Army.

Maj Gen Patra’s appointment is celebrated within the military community, with numerous congratulations being extended via social media by colleagues and peers, highlighting his respected standing and the expectations for his tenure at the AMC Centre & College.

This transition represents a continuation of high standards in military medical education and training, with Maj Gen Patra’s leadership expected to further enhance the capabilities and readiness of the Army Medical Corps.

Major General Sukriti Baveja, a distinguished dermatologist, has taken over as Major General (Medical) at the Headquarters of Dakshin Bharat Area in Chennai. The appointment ceremony took place on February 13, 2025, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career with the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS).

Prior to this prestigious appointment, Major General Baveja was serving as the Brigadier AFMS (Coord) in the Office of the Director General Armed Forces Medical Services. Her promotion to Major General underscores her exemplary service and expertise in the field of dermatology within the military healthcare system.

During the ceremony, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, the current Director General Armed Forces Medical Services, extended her heartiest congratulations to Major General Baveja. The event was celebrated with messages of goodwill from various military and government officials, highlighting the importance of her role in ensuring the medical readiness and well-being of the armed forces personnel in the region.

Major General Baveja’s appointment is a testament to the AFMS’s commitment to recognizing and promoting talent within its ranks, ensuring that experienced and capable officers like her lead critical medical operations. Her leadership is expected to bring further advancements in healthcare services for military personnel in the Dakshin Bharat Area.

This change in leadership comes at a time when the focus on military healthcare infrastructure and services is paramount, ensuring that the armed forces remain in peak condition to fulfill their duties. Major General Sukriti Baveja’s tenure is anticipated to be marked by continued excellence in medical care and operational readiness.