Ashok Leyland, the flagship entity of the Hinduja Group, announced that its defence business has secured multiple orders valued at over ₹700 crore to supply vehicles to the armed forces. These vehicles will fulfill the defence sector’s requirements for troop transportation, logistics, and specialized mobility solutions under the Close-in Weapon Systems (CIWS) program.
Strengthening Leadership in Land Mobility Solutions
With these new orders, Ashok Leyland has further reinforced its position as a leader in advanced land mobility solutions for India’s armed and paramilitary forces. According to a filing with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), the contracts cover a diverse range of specialized vehicles, including:
Stallion 4×4
Stallion 6×6
Short Chassis Bus
Mobility System Travelling Platform
These vehicles are designed to offer superior reliability and exceptional off-road capability, ensuring seamless maneuverability across India’s most challenging terrains while meeting various operational requirements.
Stock Performance: Dip Despite Order Win
Despite the positive order announcement, Ashok Leyland’s stock traded lower on Friday. As of the last update, the stock was down by 0.79%, trading at ₹207.
The stock traded higher than its 10-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) but remained below its 5-day, 20-, 30-, 50-, 100-, 150-, and 200-day SMAs.
Its 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) stood at 47.10, indicating neutral market sentiment.
Around 1.63 lakh shares changed hands, which was lower than the two-week average volume of 3.55 lakh shares.
The counter registered a turnover of ₹3.37 crore, with a market capitalization of ₹60,859.53 crore.
Company Fundamentals and Market Indicators
P/E Ratio: 20.58
P/B Value: 6.03
Earnings Per Share (EPS): 10.07
Return on Equity (RoE): 29.31%
Beta (1-Year): 1.6, indicating high volatility
Clarification on SML Isuzu Stake Acquisition Rumors
In a separate development, Ashok Leyland denied media reports suggesting that it was acquiring the promoter’s stake (Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation) in SML Isuzu. The company clarified that the news was factually incorrect and assured that any material information would be disclosed as per regulatory requirements.
“As a responsible corporate entity, the company promptly discloses any material information under applicable regulations and will continue to do so in the future,” the company stated.
Promoter Holding and Shareholding Pattern
As of December 2024, promoters held a 51.52% stake in Ashok Leyland, reflecting strong promoter confidence in the company’s growth and performance.
Ashok Leyland’s continued focus on enhancing defense capabilities and maintaining transparency in corporate actions positions the company as a key player in India’s defense and automotive sectors.
Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair, Commandant, Indian Naval Academy (INA), expressed heartfelt condolences on the tragic demise of Assistant Commandant Rabijith R, a trainee officer who lost his life during a routine training exercise.
The deceased was identified as Assistant Commandant Rabijith R,(24) – a trainee officer, who collapsed during a routine training exercise at the INA, Ezhimala, an official release said. Despite best efforts of medical personnel at the Naval hospital within the Academy, he could not be revived.
Assistant Commandant Rabijith R was undergoing training as part of the 41st Naval Orientation Course (Regular) for the Indian Coast Guard. He had demonstrated exceptional dedication, commitment, and promise in his service to the nation, earning the admiration of his instructors and peers. His untimely demise is a profound loss to the Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Naval community.
The Indian Navy stands in solidarity with the bereaved family during this moment of immense grief. Vice Admiral Nair acknowledged the trainee officer’s unwavering devotion to duty and assured the family of the Navy’s continued support and assistance.
The Indian Navy pays tribute to Assistant Commandant Rabijith R, whose service and sacrifice will always be remembered with pride and gratitude. His contributions to the nation and the values he upheld will continue to inspire future generations of officers.
New Delhi, 28 March 2025: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed two major contracts with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the supply of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), Prachand, along with training and associated equipment, valued at ₹62,700 crore (excluding taxes).
Breakdown of Contracts:
66 LCHs for the Indian Air Force (IAF)
90 LCHs for the Indian Army
The supply of these helicopters will commence from the third year and will be phased over the next five years, significantly enhancing the combat capabilities of the Armed Forces, especially at high altitudes.
LCH Prachand: Indigenous Technological Marvel
LCH Prachand is India’s first indigenously designed and developed combat helicopter, capable of operating at altitudes over 5,000 meters. With a focus on ‘Make in India’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the helicopter boasts a large number of components designed and manufactured domestically. The contract aims to achieve an indigenous content of over 65% during the execution phase, involving over 250 domestic companies, most of which are MSMEs.
Boost to Domestic Industry and Job Creation
The execution of these contracts is expected to generate over 8,500 direct and indirect jobs, contributing to India’s defence ecosystem and strengthening self-reliance in the aerospace sector.
Contract with Metrea Management for Wet Leasing of FRA
In addition, the Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Metrea Management for the wet leasing of one Flight Refuelling Aircraft (FRA) to provide Air-to-Air refuelling training for IAF and Indian Navy pilots.
The FRA, a KC-135 Aircraft, will be delivered within six months, making it the first FRA to be wet-leased by the IAF, enhancing operational readiness and training capabilities.
Record-Breaking Year for Defence Contracts
With the signing of these three contracts, the total number of contracts signed by the MoD during 2024-25 has risen to 193, with an overall contract value exceeding ₹2,09,050 crore—the highest ever and nearly double the previous highest figure.
Contracts to Domestic Industry: 177 (92%)
Value of Domestic Contracts: ₹1,68,922 crore (81%)
These contracts mark a significant milestone in India’s defense modernization efforts and reinforce the government’s commitment to strengthening indigenous defense capabilities.
Pune, March 2025: Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, conducted the Annual Administrative Inspection of the College of Military Engineering (CME), Pune, where he assessed the institution’s progress in adopting advanced technologies and enhancing infrastructure to meet evolving operational requirements.
Review of Advanced Training and Infrastructure
During his visit, Lt Gen Seth reviewed advanced training initiatives and key infrastructure upgrades at CME. He received detailed briefings on the latest advancements in Geo-Information Sciences, survey software, and drone training, emphasizing the institution’s role in equipping future military engineers with cutting-edge skills.
3D-Printed Sand Model: A Notable Innovation
A significant highlight of the visit was the demonstration of a 3D-printing model developed by Lieutenant SP Singh of CME. This innovative model uses locally available materials to create Sand Models of various geographical terrains, offering a cost-effective and efficient tool for operational planning and training purposes.
Appreciation and Recognition
Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth lauded CME’s tech-driven approach to enhancing intelligence and operational training. He commended the institution’s efforts in fostering innovation and incorporating modern technologies into military education. During the visit, the Army Commander also felicitated individuals who made notable contributions to military engineering and technology, acknowledging their dedication and expertise.
CME’s Role in Shaping Future Military Leaders
The visit underscored CME’s pivotal role in advancing military engineering through innovation and excellence, ensuring that the Indian Army remains prepared for future operational challenges. Lt Gen Seth’s inspection reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to developing state-of-the-art solutions and nurturing technological prowess among its cadets and faculty.
Hello Aspirants,‘गिरते हैं शहसवार ही मैदान-ए-जंग में,वो तिफ्ल क्या गिरे जो घुटनों के बल चले।’ Today, I am going to share my journey from being a fresher to becoming a recommended candidate. My motivation to join the armed forces dates back to my childhood. I grew up watching my father in uniform and listening to the brave stories of my grandfather, who valiantly served in the Indian Air Force (IAF). These memories ignited a deep desire in me to serve the nation.
I began my journey by appearing for the NDA exams in 2019. Despite multiple attempts, I couldn’t clear the exam due to my weakness in mathematics. Undeterred, I joined BSc (IT) at Delhi University and continued preparing. During this period, I also joined the NCC, where I gained invaluable experiences, learned discipline, and made lifelong memories.
After graduating, I shifted my focus to CDSE and AFCAT. I received my first SSB call for NCC entry at SCN, Kapurthala, in 2022. I was both nervous and excited but decided to approach my first attempt by simply being myself. Unfortunately, the result was a screen out.
My initial failures were difficult to process, but my “never give up” attitude kept me motivated. I appeared for SSBs repeatedly, but the results were disappointing:
11 SSBs in total – 6 screen outs and 4 conference outs.
Despite setbacks, I sought guidance from several prestigious coaching academies and mentors. I realized that preparation alone was not enough—self-introspection and genuine improvement were key.
I discovered that while being genuine and authentic is essential in SSB, there are areas that require focused effort: ✅ Time management during psych tests. ✅ Confidence and boldness in responses. ✅ Clarity of thoughts and staying cheerful during the process. ✅ GTO Performance: Being a real team player, helping the group, and maintaining composure.
Before my 11th attempt, I had experienced two consecutive screen outs, but I remained prepared and focused. I never let my morale down and waited patiently for the next opportunity. Finally, I made it!
Interestingly, I never cleared any written exams but had direct entries through Tech and NCC entries. Many believe clearing written exams is essential, but if you’re unable to clear them, focus on SSB preparation because that is where you’ll ultimately be assessed.
In my final attempt, I had a shift in mindset. I performed with an open mind, without fearing the outcome. I gave my best and, this time, my efforts paid off. When my chest number was announced, I had a flashback from 2019 to 2024. I was finally recommended at SCN, Kapurthala, where my journey had begun six years ago.
It took me 6 years and 11 attempts to reach where I am today. Along the way, I made many friends and gathered invaluable life lessons. This journey taught me that real efforts always pay off, and consistency is key.
I am immensely grateful to: 🙏 Prateek bhaiya and Kumar bhaiya for their unwavering support. 🙏 My parents and mentors for motivating me to stay strong. 🙏 SSBCrack for keeping me updated with general awareness and guiding aspirants like me.
Soon, I will be joining OTA, Chennai, to begin the next chapter of my life.
The launching ceremony of the 10th Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile (ACTCM) Barge, LSAM 24 (Yard 134), was held on 26 March 2025 at M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane. The event was graced by Commodore Rahul Jagat, SPS, Submarine Overseeing Team (SOT), Mumbai, who was the Chief Guest for the occasion.
Indigenous Development and Progress
The contract for the construction of 11 ACTCM Barges was awarded to MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane, on 5 March 2021. These barges have been indigenously designed and built in collaboration with an Indian ship design firm and the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). To ensure seaworthiness, model testing was conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam.
Operational Readiness and Utilization
The Shipyard has successfully delivered nine out of the eleven barges to date, and these barges are being effectively utilized by the Indian Navy for operational purposes. The 10th barge, LSAM 24, marks another significant step toward strengthening India’s maritime capabilities.
Promoting ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
These barges proudly embody the vision of ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives by the Government of India, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to self-reliance and indigenization in defense production.
The successful launch of LSAM 24 reflects India’s growing expertise in indigenous shipbuilding and highlights the collaborative efforts of the Indian defense sector in enhancing maritime security.
In a landmark step towards gender inclusivity in the armed forces, the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, will induct its first batch of women officer cadets in July 2025. This historic induction comes after the Supreme Court’s 2021 ruling that directed the government to open the doors of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, to women, paving the way for their entry into the armed forces through the regular entry route.
Eight of the 18 women cadets, currently in the sixth and final term of their training at NDA, have chosen to join the Indian Army and will undergo one year of rigorous training at IMA before being commissioned as officers next year. This development marks a significant milestone for IMA, which has been training male officer cadets for almost 93 years but had not inducted women until now.
A New Era for IMA
IMA, a premier institution that has produced some of India’s finest military leaders, is set to embark on a new journey by embracing gender inclusivity. Separate accommodation has been earmarked for the incoming women officer cadets, although they will train alongside their male counterparts, assigned to different companies to ensure seamless integration during the training phase.
“IMA will induct women cadets for the first time in almost 93 years, a watershed in its history. It is currently the only military academy in the country that does not train women,” said a senior official aware of the developments.
To ensure that the induction is smooth and that gender-specific needs are adequately addressed, IMA officials have undertaken extensive visits to other training academies, including the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, and the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, to understand the best practices and training methodologies for women cadets.
Women became eligible to join the NDA and Naval Academy following the Supreme Court’s 2021 landmark order, which broke decades of gender barriers by allowing women to take the NDA entrance exam. The order came 18 months after the Supreme Court ruled that women officers who joined the Indian Army through Short Service Commission (SSC) were entitled to permanent commission and command roles, a move that paved the way for greater gender parity in the armed forces.
The first batch of women cadets joined NDA in August 2022, and they will graduate in May 2025 after completing their three-year training spread across six terms. Following this, the eight cadets opting for the Army will proceed to IMA, where they will undergo further specialized training before being commissioned as officers.
A Future of Greater Opportunities for Women in the Armed Forces
Women have been making significant strides in the Indian armed forces in recent years. Approximately 60% of the Indian Army’s women commanding officers (COs) are currently leading units in operational areas, including forward locations in the Northern and Eastern Commands responsible for securing India’s borders. Moreover, over 145 women officers have been approved for promotion to the rank of Colonel, with around 115 women already commanding their respective units.
While women are being assigned central roles on par with their male counterparts—flying fighter planes, serving on warships, and being inducted in the Personnel Below Officer Rank (PBOR) cadre—some branches, including combat roles in the infantry and tanks, remain off-limits for women in the Army. However, the induction of women cadets into IMA signals a step toward providing equal opportunities and expanding their roles in the future.
Challenges and Changing Mindsets
Despite these advances, the journey toward gender inclusivity has not been without challenges. Last year, a senior general highlighted operational concerns related to women officers in sensitive sectors. In a rare five-page letter written in October 2024, then 17 Corps Commander, Lieutenant General Rajeev Puri, expressed concerns about command challenges, officer management, and operational dynamics involving women officers. However, these concerns were largely viewed as teething issues that could be addressed through experience and evolving operational norms.
Lieutenant Colonel Anu Singh Randhawa (retd.), who served in the Army Ordnance Corps for 21 years, expressed optimism about the future of women in the armed forces. “I don’t foresee any hurdles as the army has been training women at OTA for more than 30 years, and similar training standards and practices will be adopted by IMA. Gender-specific requirements will be addressed too. There has been full acceptance of women in the military,” she said.
The Selection Process: Rigorous and Inclusive
Candidates, including women, are selected for NDA and the Naval Academy after clearing a highly competitive entrance examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The selection process includes:
Clearing the Services Selection Board (SSB), a rigorous five-day personality and intelligence assessment.
A thorough medical examination.
The final merit list is prepared by UPSC after consolidating performance in all selection stages.
The women cadets joining IMA have successfully cleared these challenging stages, making them well-prepared to excel in their forthcoming training.
Paving the Way for Future Generations
The induction of women officer cadets into IMA is not merely symbolic—it is a significant step toward empowering women in the armed forces and fostering a culture of equality, professionalism, and opportunity. As the first batch of women cadets prepares to step into IMA in July 2025, they carry with them the promise of breaking new ground and inspiring future generations of young women to join the ranks of the Indian Army.
This milestone reflects the evolving landscape of the Indian Armed Forces, where the values of inclusivity, merit, and excellence continue to shape the future of India’s defence forces.
In a significant development aimed at enhancing India’s defence posture along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, the Indian Army is in the process of raising a new division-level formation—the 72 Infantry Division—to be permanently stationed in the region. The new division will operate under the Leh-based 14 Corps, also known as the Fire and Fury Corps, which is tasked with securing some of the most challenging and strategically vital frontiers in the world.
The Fire and Fury Corps, established in September 1999 following the Kargil War, has been instrumental in safeguarding India’s northern frontiers. The addition of the 72 Infantry Division will significantly boost India’s defensive capabilities, working in conjunction with the existing 3 Infantry Division to enhance operational strength and readiness in Eastern Ladakh.
Strategic Decision in Response to Evolving Threats
According to defence sources, this move is part of a carefully planned Order of Battle (ORBAT) restructuring, which involves reorganizing and redeploying existing troops to address evolving security challenges. The 72 Infantry Division was initially approved in 2017 for the 17 Mountain Strike Corps (MSC) and was originally slated to be based in Pathankot. However, following the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, a strategic decision was made to reposition the division to Eastern Ladakh to reinforce India’s frontline defences along the LAC.
“The 72 Division was originally meant to be part of the Mountain Strike Corps and based in Pathankot for operations in Eastern Ladakh, while the 59 Division was designated to cover areas under the Eastern Command,” a senior defence official stated.
Operational Role and Structure of the 72 Infantry Division
Once fully operational, the 72 Infantry Division will replace the currently deployed Uniform Force (Division-level unit), which is expected to return to its original base in Reasi, Jammu sector. The 72 Division is poised to assume critical operational responsibilities in Eastern Ladakh, significantly enhancing India’s ability to respond to any potential escalation along the LAC.
A standard army division consists of approximately 10,000 to 15,000 combat troops, supported by an additional 8,000 personnel involved in logistical and operational support roles. The division is commanded by a Major General and typically consists of three to four brigades, with each brigade led by Brigade Commanders overseeing 3,500 to 4,000 troops.
Progress in Deployment and Training
Sources have revealed that the headquarters for the new division is already being established, with one brigade headquarters deployed in Eastern Ladakh and operational. Meanwhile, other elements of the formation are undergoing specialized training in western parts of the country to ensure seamless integration of personnel, equipment, and tactical operations tailored to the division’s specific tasks and terrain.
This specialized training will ensure that the newly raised 72 Infantry Division is fully prepared to undertake high-altitude warfare and counter any potential threats along the sensitive LAC.
Enhancing India’s Strategic Depth and Preparedness
The raising of the 72 Infantry Division comes at a time of heightened border tensions and serves as a vital step in strengthening India’s defensive posture and strategic depth along the LAC. The permanent deployment of this division in Eastern Ladakh will ensure enhanced operational readiness and rapid response capability in the face of evolving security dynamics in the region.
This move reaffirms India’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and bolstering its combat capabilities to meet any challenge that may arise along its northern borders. The establishment of the 72 Infantry Division within the Fire and Fury Corps further underscores the Indian Army’s focus on maintaining a robust and proactive defence along its strategically sensitive frontiers.
In a powerful display of jointness and integration, Lieutenant General RC Tiwari, Army Commander, Eastern Command (EC), and Air Marshal Surat Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command (EAC), IAF, participated in the integrated Exercise Prachand Prahaar, reaffirming India’s commitment to maintaining a formidable defence posture through seamless synergy between the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Navy.
In a unique and symbolic move, both senior military leaders undertook a sortie in the legendary Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force to gain a hands-on understanding of each other’s capabilities and operational dynamics. This initiative reflected their commitment to fostering inter-service coordination and collaboration, essential for executing modern-day joint operations effectively.
Exercise Prachand Prahaar showcased the Indian Armed Forces’ ability to conduct integrated operations with precision and efficiency, reflecting a high degree of joint operational preparedness. The exercise simulated real-time scenarios requiring seamless coordination between land and air assets, demonstrating the capability of the tri-services to operate cohesively in complex combat environments.
The participation of the Army Commander and the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief in the exercise emphasized the growing emphasis on interoperability and synchronized decision-making to strengthen India’s defence posture. Their active involvement in the exercise not only underscored the spirit of jointmanship but also reinforced the importance of integrating land, air, and maritime forces to address evolving security challenges.
The successful conduct of Exercise Prachand Prahaar is a testament to the Indian Armed Forces’ strength and operational synergy, reflecting India’s unwavering commitment to maintaining readiness and protecting national security through a unified and integrated defence strategy.
In a remarkable demonstration of joint combat capabilities, Lieutenant General RC Tiwari, Army Commander, Eastern Command (EC), Air Marshal Surat Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command (EAC), IAF, and Commodore Ajay Yadav, Naval Officer-in-Charge (West Bengal), witnessed a spectacular display of coordinated operations by the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force.
The exercise showcased the seamless integration of land, air, and sea assets, underscoring the ability of the three services to conduct complex joint operations with high levels of precision and efficiency.
The highlight of the display was the flawless execution of manoeuvres in the third dimension, with synchronized aerial operations complementing precision strikes from ground and naval platforms, reflecting a well-coordinated and technologically advanced combat strategy.
The demonstration was carried out in a challenging operational environment, where the forces exhibited their prowess in precision firing, battlefield manoeuvring, and rapid response tactics.
The successful execution of these complex operations reaffirmed the synergy, jointmanship, and interoperability between the armed forces, highlighting their preparedness to effectively respond to multi-dimensional threats.
The event not only underscored the operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces but also demonstrated their capability to adapt to evolving warfare scenarios and operate cohesively in challenging environments, reinforcing their collective commitment to safeguarding the nation’s security.
