In a thrilling conclusion to the 21st All India Dr. YS Parmar Memorial Volleyball Competition, the Indian Navy team claimed the championship title after overcoming the Indian Army with a score of 3-1 in the final match. The third position was secured by Uttarakhand, who triumphed in a closely contested match against Northern Railway.

Deputy Commissioner of Kangra, Hemraj Bairwa, was present to honor the winners, presenting them with trophies and cash prizes. The Indian Navy’s victory earned them a trophy along with a cash reward of ₹2 lakh. The Indian Army, finishing as runners-up, received ₹1 lakh, while Uttarakhand, taking third place, was awarded ₹75,000.

In his address at the event, Deputy Commissioner Bairwa extended his congratulations to all the players, highlighting the exceptional talent exhibited by athletes from around the nation. He remarked that high-profile competitions held in Panchrukhi not only inspire local youth but also create a vital platform for budding talent to thrive. Bairwa committed to organizing similar tournaments in the district in the future to foster a deeper interest in sports and assist in the development of athletes.

The Deputy Commissioner also outlined the government’s efforts to strengthen sports infrastructure, mentioning the ongoing construction of multi-purpose sports complexes in Jaisinghpur and Dehra within the Kangra district. He took the opportunity to spotlight the impressive accomplishments of athletes from Himachal Pradesh, both at national and international levels, emphasizing the state’s potential in the sports arena. Bairwa noted that this volleyball competition showcased several players from the region who exhibited remarkable skill and performance.

In a poignant moment, attendees paid tribute to Sanat Klette, a respected softball coach of the Youth Services and Sports Department, who recently passed away, acknowledging his contributions to the sport.

The event garnered attention from various dignitaries, including former Chief Parliamentary Secretary Jagjivan Paul and SDM Palampur Netra Meti, alongside sports department officials and players from multiple teams. This prestigious tournament serves as a testament to Himachal Pradesh’s dedication to promoting sports and cultivating opportunities for talented athletes to excel on a larger platform.

More than 13,000 participants from across the country are anticipated to converge on Visakhapatnam for the ninth edition of the Navy Marathon, scheduled to take place on the picturesque beach road on December 15. The event, organized by the Visakhapatnam district administration in collaboration with the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) of the Indian Navy, is gearing up to ensure a seamless and successful marathon experience.

In preparation for this significant event, Visakhapatnam District Collector Harendhira Prasad convened a review meeting with officials from the ENC and various departments to discuss the necessary arrangements. He emphasized the importance of traffic management, instructing the city police to implement specific traffic restrictions on the beach road to facilitate smooth operations during the marathon.

For parking logistics, the Collector suggested the utilization of several local venues, including AU English Medium School, AU Convention Hall, and APIIC Grounds. Additionally, he called for the arrangement of ambulances and fire engines at Vishwapriya Function Hall on the beach road, along with the construction of a stage for event-related activities, including prize distribution and cultural performances.

The marathon will feature four different race categories: a full marathon (42 kilometers), a half marathon (21 kilometers), a 10-kilometer run, and a 5-kilometer run. The race route has received accreditation from the Association of International Marathons, ensuring it meets international standards. A prize pool totaling approximately Rs 10 lakh will be awarded to winners across the various categories, attracting competitive runners from near and far.

This year’s marathon will also see the introduction of a mascot, the Black Buck, which not only represents the state animal of Andhra Pradesh but also holds significance as it is depicted on the Crest of INS Visakhapatnam. This choice of mascot symbolizes the enduring relationship between the Indian Navy and the state, highlighting their shared heritage.

The previous edition of the Vizag Navy Marathon, held on November 5, 2023, was met with an enthusiastic turnout, drawing over 12,000 participants who filled the beach road with vibrancy and energy as they enjoyed the scenic route. As the ninth edition approaches, the local administration and the Navy are keen to build on that success and further promote fitness and community engagement through this prestigious event.

Amid the extensive flooding across many districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry due to Cyclone Fengal, the Indian Army has been actively conducting rescue operations to assist affected residents. On Sunday, troops successfully rescued over 100 individuals in the Union Territory of Puducherry.

The Indian Army’s efforts targeted flood-hit locations such as Krishna Nagar, Kuber Nagar, and Jiva Nagar. In total, the operations managed to evacuate hundreds of residents, with more than 200 lives saved in the Krishna Nagar and Kuber Nagar areas alone. As the day progressed, the focus of the rescue efforts shifted to Jiva Nagar, where a deployment of 30 soldiers was stationed to aid those still stranded.

Puducherry’s Chief Minister, N. Rangasamy, provided an update, stating that the city experienced a staggering 50 centimeters of rainfall overnight, contributing to the severe flooding situation. He underscored the dedicated efforts of rescue teams working tirelessly to evacuate residents trapped in the floodwaters. “Puducherry has received 50 cm of rainfall, resulting in severe flooding. I am currently inspecting the flood-affected areas,” Rangasamy remarked, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Cyclone Fengal has unleashed extraordinary rainfall upon Puducherry, which recorded a historical 48.4 centimeters over a 24-hour period until 8:30 am on December 1, marking the highest cumulative rainfall in the area in three decades.

The Indian Army troops, operating under the Dakshin Bharat Area and from the Chennai Garrison Battalion, were mobilized early on Sunday morning to assist with the rescue operations in the flood-ravaged regions. After a request for assistance was made by the Puducherry District Collector around 1 am, a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) team—comprising one officer, six Junior Commissioned Officers, and 62 other soldiers—was promptly deployed. They departed from Chennai at 2 am, covering a distance of 160 kilometers and reaching Puducherry by 5:30 am.

Upon their arrival, led by Major Ajay Sangwan, the team was briefed about the situation in Krishna Nagar, where water levels had risen to almost five feet, stranding residents of approximately 500 houses. The rescue operations commenced at 6:15 am, resulting in the evacuation of over 100 individuals within just the first two hours.

In parallel, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin conducted an inspection of the state emergency operation center to oversee ongoing relief efforts. He urged the Union government to dispatch a central team to assess the damage caused by Cyclone Fengal, emphasizing the need for support in dealing with the aftermath. During his visit to the Kolathur assembly constituency, he noted that nearly 27,000 individuals had received food packets from Amma canteens since Saturday, and reported that 21 of the city’s 23 subways had been cleared of water.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Cyclone Fengal had been stationary for the past six hours, located approximately 30 kilometers north of Cuddalore and 40 kilometers east of Villupuram, remaining 120 kilometers south-southwest of Chennai as of 5:30 am.

Rescue teams continue to work diligently to reach those still impacted by the flooding, showcasing the urgency and solidarity of both the Indian Armed Forces and local government officials in responding to this calamity.

As Cyclone Fengal wreaks havoc across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, the Indian Army initiated extensive rescue operations on Sunday in response to the severe flooding that has affected multiple districts. This natural disaster has notably impacted the Union Territory of Puducherry, where the Army successfully rescued over 100 individuals from the inundated regions.

The targeted rescue operations focused on several critically affected areas, including Krishna Nagar, Kuber Nagar, and Jiva Nagar. In just the Krishna Nagar and Kuber Nagar areas alone, rescue teams managed to save more than 200 lives. Continuing efforts in Jiva Nagar involved the deployment of 30 soldiers, who are working to assist those still stranded in the floodwaters. Chief Minister of Puducherry, N Rangasamy, revealed that the city experienced an unprecedented 50 centimeters of rain overnight, leading to crippling flooding conditions.

In an official statement, CM Rangasamy commented on the intensity of the situation, stating, “I am currently inspecting the flood-affected areas. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to evacuate those stranded in the floodwaters.” The deluge brought about by Cyclone Fengal resulted in 48.4 centimeters of rainfall within a 24-hour period, marking the most substantial rainfall recorded in Puducherry over the last 30 years.

The Indian Army’s response was swift. Troops from the Chennai Garrison Battalion commenced operations after being requisitioned by the Puducherry District Collector at approximately 1 am. A Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) team, consisting of one officer, six junior commissioned officers, and 62 personnel, mobilized at 2 am and reached the affected areas around 5:30 am. Upon arrival, they quickly assessed the dire circumstances in Krishna Nagar, where water levels surged to nearly five feet, trapping residents of around 500 homes.

Initiating rescue efforts at 6:15 am, Major Ajay Sangwan led the team as they worked to evacuate those in distress. Within a mere two hours, over 100 people were brought to safety, showcasing the army’s effective response to the unfolding emergency.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin inspected the state emergency operation center and urged the central government to send a team to assess the damage and the situation on the ground due to Cyclone Fengal. Accompanied by other officials, he visited various sites within the Kolathur assembly constituency, highlighting the state administration’s focus on managing relief efforts.

Stalin reported that around 27,000 residents have received food packets prepared by the state’s Amma canteens since the onset of the cyclone. Furthermore, substantial progress has been made in clearing local subways in Chennai, with 21 out of 23 subways reportedly drained of water.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) noted that Cyclone Fengal has remained stationary near Puducherry, approximately 30 kilometers north of Cuddalore and 40 kilometers east of Villupuram. The cyclone’s stationary status as of early Sunday morning has warranted ongoing monitoring as officials assess the storm’s potential impact on the region moving forward.

In a significant move aimed at bolstering its defense capabilities, India is making strides towards manufacturing fighter jet engines domestically, seeking to reduce reliance on foreign technology. This initiative takes shape as DK Sunil, the Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), embarks on a visit to Russia to explore the licensing of engine production for the Indian Air Force’s Sukhoi-30MKI fleet.

India is in discussions with its longstanding ally Russia regarding the joint production of the AL-31FP engine, which powers the Su-30MKI fighter jets. Currently, HAL is negotiating an agreement to license the manufacturing of 240 AL-31FP aero engines, a contract worth approximately ₹26,000 crores (around $3.1 billion). This agreement underscores India’s concerted effort to enhance its indigenous defense production and cut back on imported technology.

The urgency of this initiative is underscored by a critical shortage of fighter squadrons within the Indian Air Force. With a pressing need to upgrade its capabilities, the Indian government is looking to expand its fleet of Sukhoi-30MKIs, which require additional engines over their lifespan. Fighters typically operate for 30 to 40 years, necessitating engine replacements two or three times throughout their service life.

To strengthen local manufacturing, HAL has set an ambitious goal: increasing the indigenous content of these engines from 54% to 63% during production. This strategic move also aims to diminish reliance on Russian components. The engine production will take place at HAL’s Koraput facility in Odisha, although some key components will still be sourced from Russia for the time being.

The potential for a joint production venture with Russia also raises prospects for technology transfer, which could further enhance India’s self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing. In addition to the engine production initiative, HAL is also looking forward to upgrading its entire fleet of Sukhoi-30 aircraft at an estimated cost of ₹65,000 crores.

As India embarks on this path towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing, the decision to localize fighter jet engine production marks a pivotal moment in the country’s strategic defense planning and its long-term aspirations to bolster its military capabilities. The successful execution of these plans could significantly enhance the operational readiness and effectiveness of the Indian Air Force in the coming years.

Bhubaneswar is set to host a grand celebration for Navy Day on December 4, where a remarkable display of maritime prowess is expected. The Indian Navy has announced that at least 15 warships and 40 aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters, will take part in the celebrations along the coast of Puri.

In preparation for the event, warships, military equipment, and personnel have already arrived in the coastal town. The Navy intends to showcase its robust maritime capabilities and operational strength, with a special operational demonstration scheduled to take place at the picturesque Blue Flag Beach of Puri. According to an official from the Indian Navy, a full-dress rehearsal is planned for December 2, ensuring that all participants are well-prepared for the spectacular display.

This year’s celebration holds special significance as it marks the first time Navy Day will be observed on the Odisha coast. Additionally, it is noteworthy that this will be the inaugural appearance of battle tanks from the Indian Army alongside other military equipment at Puri beach, further amplifying the event’s magnitude.

President Droupadi Murmu has graciously accepted the invitation to attend as the chief guest. The celebration is designed not only to showcase the Indian Navy’s diverse capabilities but also to raise maritime awareness among the public and honor India’s rich maritime heritage.

The Indian Navy is collaborating closely with state officials and local authorities to ensure the seamless organization of the event. Special seating arrangements will be made for local residents and tourists, providing an opportunity for all to witness the impressive live demonstration from the beach. Furthermore, to broaden the event’s reach, it will be broadcast live on national television and streamed via the Indian Navy’s YouTube channel, allowing a larger audience to partake in this significant occasion.

Amid severe flooding in several districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry caused by Cyclone Fengal, the Indian Army conducted extensive rescue operations on Sunday. These missions focused on multiple flood-hit areas in Puducherry, specifically in Krishna Nagar, Kuber Nagar, and Jiva Nagar, with the aim of evacuating residents trapped by the rising waters. In these areas alone, rescuers successfully saved over 200 lives, with ongoing efforts in Jiva Nagar where 30 soldiers are currently deployed.

Puducherry’s Chief Minister, N Rangasamy, reported that the city experienced 50 centimeters of rainfall overnight, which significantly contributed to the flooding. In a statement to ANI, he emphasized the ongoing efforts of rescue teams to evacuate stranded individuals: “Puducherry has received 50 cm of rainfall, resulting in severe flooding. I am currently inspecting the flood-affected areas. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to evacuate those stranded in the floodwaters.”

The Indian Meteorological Department noted that Cyclone Fengal resulted in a remarkable 48.4 centimeters of rain over a 24-hour period, marking the highest recorded rainfall in Puducherry in the last 30 years. The Indian Army’s Chennai Garrison Battalion was mobilized early Sunday to assist with humanitarian efforts in the region. Responding to a requisition from the Puducherry District Collector at around 1 am, a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) column was quickly assembled and departed from Chennai at 2 am, covering 160 kilometers to reach Grammer Puducherry by 5:30 am.

Upon arrival, Major Ajay Sangwan and his team were informed of the dire situation in Krishna Nagar, where water levels had risen to nearly five feet, isolating residents of approximately 500 homes. The rescue operations commenced at 6:15 am, yielding immediate results as over 100 individuals were evacuated within the first two hours of operations.

In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister MK Stalin visited the state emergency operation center to monitor relief efforts. He called upon the Union government to send a central team to assess the situation, particularly regarding crop damage due to Cyclone Fengal. Throughout the state, approximately 27,000 people received food packets from Amma canteens since Saturday, and of the 23 subways in Chennai, 21 have now been cleared of water.

The IMD reported that Cyclone Fengal had been stationary for the last six hours, positioned about 30 kilometers north of Cuddalore and 40 kilometers east of Villupuram. As of the early morning, it was noted that the cyclone had not moved from its position, remaining 120 kilometers south-southwest of Chennai, exacerbating the flooding situation in the region. Efforts continue on multiple fronts as both local authorities and the Indian Army work to assist those affected by the devastating weather events.