At the age of 52, Brigadier Karthik V, VSM, Deputy Medical Services in the office of the Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), has achieved a phenomenal feat, becoming the only AFMS officer to complete the grueling 100-mile (161 km) Border Hell Race.

The ultra-marathon, commemorating the epic Battle of Laungewala during the 1971 war, was held on 14 December 2024, from Jaisalmer to Laungewala, and Brigadier Karthik completed it in an incredible 28 hours and 18 minutes.

A Legacy of Endurance and Excellence

This accomplishment comes just a month after he successfully completed the Khadakvasla 100 km ultra-marathon on 17 November 2024. With this, he has become the only AFMS officer to participate in both 100-mile and 100-km ultra-marathons in consecutive months.

Brigadier Karthik is a prolific ultra-distance runner, with an impressive list of achievements that include:

• Bhatti Lakes 100 km
• Khardungla Challenge
• Border Hell Race 50 km
• Red Stone Ultra 50 km

Recognition and Applause

Surg Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, DGAFMS, and the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) extended their heartfelt compliments to Brigadier Karthik for his outstanding achievements. His determination, endurance, and commitment serve as an inspiration not just to the armed forces but to all aspiring endurance athletes.

Commemorating a Historic Legacy

The Border Hell Race is more than just a physical challenge; it is a tribute to the valor and determination of those who fought during the Battle of Laungewala. By completing this ultra-marathon, Brigadier Karthik has not only showcased his physical and mental resilience but also honored the legacy of courage and sacrifice associated with this historic battle.

Brigadier Karthik’s story stands as a testament to the spirit of the Indian Armed Forces, where discipline, grit, and a never-give-up attitude define the journey to extraordinary accomplishments.

In a tragic incident near Butcher Island, off the coast of Mumbai, a Navy boat collided with the passenger vessel ‘Neelkamal’ at approximately 3:55 PM on December 17, 2024. As of 7:30 PM, 101 people have been rescued safely, while 13 fatalities have been confirmed, including 10 civilians and 3 Navy personnel.

Rescue and Relief Efforts

The rescue operation, involving 11 craft and 4 helicopters, was jointly conducted by the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Mumbai Police. Two critically injured individuals are receiving treatment at the Navy hospital.

Authorities have announced that the final count of missing persons will be available by tomorrow morning, as rescue efforts continue to ensure no one is left unaccounted for.

Support for Bereaved Families

The Chief Minister’s Relief Fund has announced an ex gratia payment of Rs. 5 lakhs for the families of the deceased. The government and armed forces have extended their condolences to the bereaved families.

Investigation Underway

The incident is currently under investigation by both the police and the Navy, to ascertain the cause of the collision and prevent such occurrences in the future.

This unfortunate event highlights the critical need for safety measures and thorough reviews of maritime operations. The nation mourns the loss of lives and stands united in support of the affected families.

Lt Gen Nagendra Singh, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Chetak Corps, visited the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges to observe the tactical deployment and Field Firing Exercise conducted by the Chetak Gunners.

Precision and Technological Integration

The exercise showcased precision firing capabilities and the seamless integration of niche technologies, reflecting the unit’s commitment to operational innovation and excellence. The demonstration highlighted the adaptability of the Chetak Corps in modern warfare scenarios.

Commendation and Focus on Modern Warfare

Lt Gen Nagendra Singh commended the high training standards and operational readiness demonstrated by the Chetak Gunners. He emphasized the importance of:

• Innovative and realistic training validations, to simulate actual combat conditions.
• Continuous adaptation to emerging technologies and tactics in modern warfare.
• Maintaining a focus on operational excellence to ensure mission success in dynamic environments.

A Commitment to Excellence

The visit underscored the Chetak Corps’ dedication to preparing its personnel for the evolving demands of modern battlefields, ensuring they remain at the forefront of operational effectiveness and combat readiness.

The Brahmastra Corps Healers organized a Technical Training Competition for Battlefield Nursing Assistants (BFNA) at the Panagarh Military Station on 16 and 17 December 2024. The competition aimed to assess and enhance the operational readiness of nursing assistants in a simulated battlefield environment.

Showcasing Operational Readiness

Teams from Infantry and Artillery units actively participated in the event, showcasing their medical skills and ability to perform under high-pressure scenarios typical of battlefield conditions.

Focus on Realistic Training

The competition provided an opportunity for participants to:

• Apply medical skills in combat-like scenarios, emphasizing quick decision-making and adaptability.
• Collaborate in multi-disciplinary teams, fostering teamwork and coordination.
• Improve their readiness to handle critical situations, including trauma care and casualty evacuation.

Reinforcing Commitment to Excellence

This initiative reflects the Brahmastra Corps’ commitment to maintaining high standards of combat medical care and ensuring that Battlefield Nursing Assistants are well-prepared to save lives and support operational effectiveness in challenging environments.

Competitions like these not only hone the skills of participants but also strengthen the Indian Army’s ability to provide seamless medical support during operations.

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.