In a significant leadership change in the Indian Army, Lieutenant General V Sreehari has taken over as the new General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Dakshin Bharat Area, succeeding Lieutenant General Karanbir Singh Brar. The formal handover ceremony took place at the Army headquarters in Chennai, with the transition becoming effective from August 1, 2025.
The ceremonial event, attended by senior officers and military personnel, featured the traditional exchange of a ceremonial baton symbolizing the smooth transfer of command responsibilities. The headquarters was adorned with national and regional flags, reflecting the rich heritage and unity of the armed forces.
Commissioned into the 16 Sikh Light Infantry in 1987, Lt Gen Sreehari later joined the elite Para Regiment, where he served in various command and staff roles. His experience in both conventional infantry and special operations is expected to bring strategic depth to the command. As the new head of the Dakshin Bharat Area, he will oversee critical logistics, administrative operations, and coordination across the southern states of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala.
The Dakshin Bharat Area is one of the Indian Army’s key regional commands. It has historically played a vital role in national integration, including during the Hyderabad operations in 1948. Today, it supports vital military installations, units, and logistics that ensure readiness and response capability in the region.
This leadership change also comes at a time when the Indian armed forces are undergoing structural transformation under the Inter-Services Organisation (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023. This legislation aims to improve coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force through integrated theater commands. However, defense analysts note that clarity is still awaited on the operational role of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), which remains central to these reforms.
Outgoing commander Lt Gen Brar was lauded for his distinguished tenure. His efforts in enhancing the region’s infrastructure and supporting key operational initiatives were acknowledged during the farewell ceremony.
In his address, Lt Gen Sreehari expressed gratitude for the opportunity and affirmed his commitment to strengthening defense readiness and operational support in southern India.
This change in leadership underscores the Indian Army’s continued focus on maintaining a robust defense posture in southern India amid evolving strategic challenges.
Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, AVSM, VSM, formally assumed command as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) of the Western Naval Command (WNC) of the Indian Navy in a ceremonial parade held at INS Shikra in Mumbai. He takes over the reins from Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh, PVSM, AVSM, NM, who served with distinction.
The ceremonial parade featured a formal guard of honour and was attended by senior officers and personnel of the Navy. Following the assumption of command, Vice Admiral Swaminathan paid homage at the Gaurav Stambh monument at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, saluting the memory of naval personnel who laid down their lives in service of the nation.
Vice Admiral Swaminathan brings with him over three decades of operational and leadership experience. Commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 1, 1987, he is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakvasla. He has pursued higher military education at the Joint Services Command and Staff College in the United Kingdom, the College of Naval Warfare in Karanja, and the US Naval War College in Rhode Island.
Throughout his career, he has commanded a wide range of frontline warships, including the missile boats INS Vidyut and INS Vinash, the missile corvette INS Kulish, the guided missile destroyer INS Mysore, and the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya. Prior to this appointment, he was serving as the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff at Naval Headquarters in New Delhi.
The Western Naval Command, based in Mumbai, is the sword arm of the Indian Navy along the western seaboard. It oversees a powerful fleet that includes aircraft carriers, destroyers, submarines, and maritime patrol aircraft. The WNC plays a vital role in ensuring maritime security in the Arabian Sea, monitoring strategic sea lanes and responding to emerging threats.
With Vice Admiral Swaminathan at the helm, the Indian Navy’s western front is expected to benefit from enhanced operational focus, stronger international cooperation, and readiness for emerging maritime challenges.
The Bogra Brigade of the Indian Army organised an equipment display as part of the ongoing joint military exercise Bold Kurukshetra with the Singapore Armed Forces. The event was held in Jodhpur and aimed at enhancing joint preparedness for operations under a United Nations mandate.
The display featured key equipment used in peacekeeping and multinational operations, offering both armies an opportunity to understand each other’s tactical capabilities and strengthen interoperability.
The Bogra Brigade, a highly decorated formation of the Indian Army, has a legacy of operational excellence and professionalism. Named after its historic contribution in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, particularly during the liberation of Bangladesh, the brigade continues to play a pivotal role in both combat and peace support operations. Its participation in multinational drills like Bold Kurukshetra underscores its readiness to contribute to regional and global stability.
Exercise Bold Kurukshetra is a bilateral training initiative that highlights the growing military cooperation between India and Singapore. By simulating UN-mandated scenarios, the exercise promotes mutual learning and coordinated response strategies in global peace support missions.
The participation of both armies in this exercise reflects their shared commitment to international peace and security, and reinforces the role of joint operations in addressing modern-day conflict and humanitarian challenges.
In a landmark initiative to enhance emergency preparedness, the National Capital Region (NCR) will witness its first-ever mega-scale mock disaster drill on August 1. The exercise, named ‘Suraksha Chakra’, will simulate earthquake, industrial, and chemical hazard scenarios across 55 locations in 11 districts of Delhi.
Organised by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the drill will involve coordinated participation from multiple agencies including the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Indian Army’s Western Command, Headquarters Delhi Area, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Delhi Police, civil defence, fire services, and health and transport departments. Disaster management units from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana will also be part of the exercise.
The mega drill will be preceded by a stakeholder symposium on July 29 and table-top exercises on July 30 at the Manekshaw Centre in Delhi. These preparatory sessions will involve strategy discussions among agencies to strengthen coordinated response plans for the region.
Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain, member of NDMA, stated that the drill reflects the government’s whole-of-government approach to disaster resilience. He said that the Delhi-NCR region is particularly vulnerable to earthquakes and complex urban disasters, making such preparedness exercises essential.
DDMA CEO Krishan Kumar informed that citizens can expect to see a high presence of police, fire, and emergency response vehicles throughout the city on August 1. He urged the public not to panic and to treat the activity as a routine preparedness measure.
Apart from Delhi, the mock drill will be conducted in two districts of Uttar Pradesh – Noida and Ghaziabad – and five districts of Haryana, namely Gurugram, Faridabad, Palwal, Nuh, and Rewari.
Lt Gen Hasnain added that the exercise will also include simulations for chemical and fire hazards, with efforts directed at resource mapping and response coordination. He said that the outcomes of the drill will help identify gaps in the existing system and formulate better disaster response strategies.
The NDMA has conducted over 200 small and large-scale mock disaster drills across India in the last five years. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed that such exercises be held in every district of the country once every three years to build local capacity.
This mega drill, Suraksha Chakra, aims to strengthen the disaster management ecosystem of Delhi-NCR, ensuring that emergency services are better prepared to safeguard lives and property in the event of a real disaster.
In a landmark shift in foreign policy, Canada has announced that it will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session in September. Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed the decision on Wednesday, aligning Canada with the United Kingdom and France, who have also pledged to support Palestinian statehood in recent days.
The move comes as Palestine grapples with a devastating humanitarian crisis, particularly in Gaza, where starvation and aid blockades have worsened. Prime Minister Carney directly blamed Israel for denying international organisations access to deliver humanitarian aid, calling the situation unacceptable. His remarks echo growing calls in the West for a political resolution to the conflict rooted in the two-state solution.
The UK’s decision, announced a day earlier by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is conditional upon a ceasefire and a halt to Israel’s annexation plans in the West Bank. France and Malta have also joined the list of countries supporting Palestine’s full statehood recognition, a move that could alter diplomatic equations in the region.
Israel, however, has condemned Canada’s announcement. The Israeli ambassador to Canada, Iddo Moed, accused Ottawa of “rewarding terrorists”, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to the UK’s decision by stating that “Starmer rewards Hamas’s monstrous terrorism and punishes its victims.”
Currently, Palestine holds the status of a “Permanent Observer State” at the United Nations. This allows participation in debates but not the ability to vote on resolutions. Full membership requires a Security Council recommendation and a two-thirds vote in the General Assembly. A US veto blocked Palestine’s last membership bid in April 2024.
As of March 2025, 147 of the 193 UN member states recognise Palestine as an independent state. Most of these are from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East — including India. However, countries like the United States, Japan, South Korea, and Australia continue to withhold recognition.
In Europe, the momentum is growing. Spain, Norway, and Ireland recognised Palestine in 2024, and now the UK and France have followed suit. Belgium and Germany are still undecided. Canada’s entry into this group makes it the third G7 country to support Palestinian statehood, adding more diplomatic pressure on Israel and signalling a possible realignment of Western policy.
Britain’s recognition carries special weight due to its historical involvement in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The 1917 Balfour Declaration, through which the UK supported a national home for the Jewish people in Palestine, is viewed by many Palestinians as the root of their displacement and suffering. The UK’s recognition, over a century later, could be seen as a step toward balancing historical accountability with contemporary diplomacy.
The recognition wave also risks isolating the United States, the only permanent member of the UN Security Council yet to support Palestinian statehood. Such isolation may weaken Washington’s claim of being an impartial mediator in the peace process.
The 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly will open on September 9 in New York. With more recognitions expected in the coming weeks, Palestine’s diplomatic standing could significantly improve, reigniting debate over the future of the two-state solution and the role of the global community in resolving the Middle East conflict.
In a significant milestone for India’s naval defence capability, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd delivered INS Himgiri, a state-of-the-art guided-missile stealth frigate, to the Indian Navy on Thursday. The warship is the first of three frigates being built by GRSE under Project 17A as part of a ₹21,833 crore contract aimed at strengthening the Navy’s surface combatant fleet.
Designed for multi-dimensional warfare, INS Himgiri can counter threats from air, surface, and underwater domains. The 149-metre-long warship displaces 6,670 tonnes and is fitted with some of the most advanced systems developed indigenously, reaffirming India’s progress toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The ship is equipped with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles for land and maritime strike roles, Barak-8 surface-to-air missiles for aerial defence, and advanced AESA radar systems. It also features a high level of automation, real-time combat management tools, and helicopter operations capability from its dedicated aviation deck. A Combined Diesel and Gas (CODAG) propulsion system ensures superior speed, endurance, and manoeuvrability. The vessel carries a complement of 225 personnel.
The delivery of Himgiri significantly boosts India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat drive, with high indigenous content and major contributions from MSMEs, OEMs, and start-ups across the country. GRSE’s achievement reflects the robust growth of India’s domestic shipbuilding ecosystem and defence industrial base.
Himgiri is the 801st vessel and the 112th warship built and delivered by GRSE, making it the most prolific warship builder in Indian history. The ship was formally accepted on behalf of the Indian Navy by Rear Admiral Ravnish Seth, Chief Staff Officer (Technical), Eastern Naval Command.
GRSE is currently working on 15 warships for the Indian Navy, including the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASWSWC) Androth and the third Survey Vessel Large, Ikshak. Both vessels have completed sea trials and are due for delivery. The company has also emerged as the lowest bidder for the Indian Navy’s Next Generation Corvette (NGC) project and is expected to construct five new-generation corvettes.
The induction of INS Himgiri marks a decisive advancement in the Indian Navy’s pursuit of blue-water capabilities and reinforces India’s position as a rising maritime power in the Indo-Pacific region.
Lieutenant General N.S. Raja Subramani, the Vice Chief of the Army Staff, officially retired today after an illustrious and decorated 39-year career in the Indian Army. The farewell ceremony was held at the National War Memorial, followed by a formal Guard of Honour at South Block, marking the conclusion of his tenure as the 47th Vice Chief.
The retirement proceedings unfolded under a gentle monsoon drizzle, adding a reflective mood to the solemn event. Lt Gen Subramani paid homage to fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial, a revered site dedicated to over 26,000 personnel who laid down their lives in service of the nation since Independence.
Appointed as Vice Chief on July 1, 2024, General Subramani is widely respected for his professionalism, operational insight, and calm leadership in complex situations. Throughout his military journey, he held key command, instructional, and staff roles and was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), Sena Medal (SM), and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) for his outstanding service.
The Indian Army expressed deep appreciation for his contributions, stating that his leadership had left an enduring impact on the institution. A three-star general, Lt Gen Subramani occupied the army’s second-highest rank, a post historically considered a stepping stone to becoming the Chief of Army Staff. Notably, 11 of the 40 former Vice Chiefs have gone on to lead the Army.
The Guard of Honour ceremony, attended by senior officers and defence dignitaries, reflected the Army’s deep-rooted values of discipline and tradition.
As Lt Gen Subramani retires, he leaves behind a legacy of commitment and excellence, having served in varied terrains and operational theatres across the country. His departure marks the end of an era in the Indian Army, as the force prepares to welcome new leadership while building on the foundations he helped strengthen.
The Indian Military Academy (IMA), nestled in the serene foothills of Dehradun, is more than a training institution—it’s a gateway to a life of honor, courage, and service. Since its establishment in 1932, the IMA has been the cradle of leadership for the Indian Army, producing officers who embody valor and wisdom. For those aspiring to serve the nation, the IMA offers a transformative journey. Here are 10 compelling reasons why you should consider joining this prestigious academy, supported by insights from trusted defence resources.
1. Legacy of Valor and Tradition
The IMA is steeped in a rich history of producing some of India’s finest military officers. From its inception in 1932, it has been synonymous with bravery, sacrifice, and leadership. The academy’s legacy inspires generations, and by joining, you become part of an elite lineage that has shaped the Indian Army’s proud history. The stories of IMA alumni, celebrated for their courage, serve as a powerful motivator for aspirants.
Training at the IMA is renowned for its intensity, designed to forge well-rounded officers. The curriculum emphasizes physical fitness, mental agility, emotional resilience, and tactical expertise. Cadets undergo a demanding regimen that includes military tactics, weapon handling, and leadership exercises, ensuring they are prepared for any challenge. This holistic approach not only builds professional skills but also fosters personal growth, making you a leader in every sense.
3. Symbol of Prestige and Honor
Graduating from the IMA is a mark of unparalleled prestige. The uniform you earn is a symbol of honor, duty, and sacrifice, recognized and respected across the nation. As an IMA alumnus, you join an esteemed community of officers who have dedicated their lives to serving India. This honor is not just a title but a lifelong commitment to excellence and service (10 Reasons Why You Should Join Indian Armed Forces).
4. Gateway to Diverse Opportunities
The IMA opens doors to a wide array of career paths within the Indian Army. From technical roles in engineering and logistics to leading combat units, the academy provides the foundation for diverse opportunities. Whether you aspire to strategize in high-stakes operations or innovate in military technology, the IMA equips you with the skills to excel in various domains.
5. A Brotherhood Like No Other
Life at the IMA fosters a sense of camaraderie that is unmatched. Cadets form lifelong bonds through shared challenges, values, and triumphs. This brotherhood extends beyond the academy, creating a supportive network of peers who stand by you in every endeavor. The sense of belonging and unity is a defining feature of the IMA experience, making it a home away from home.
6. Beauty of Dehradun
The IMA’s campus, located in the picturesque foothills of the Himalayas, offers a serene and inspiring environment. The natural beauty of Dehradun, with its lush greenery and tranquil setting, enhances the learning experience. This unique backdrop provides a peaceful space for reflection and growth, making your time at the IMA both challenging and rejuvenating.
7. Serving the Motherland
Joining the IMA means committing to the highest form of service—protecting and serving India. This noble calling involves safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, often at great personal sacrifice. The opportunity to serve the motherland is a privilege that instills a deep sense of purpose and pride, making every effort worthwhile.
8. Job Security and Benefits
A career in the Indian Army, starting with the IMA, offers exceptional job security and a host of benefits. These include comprehensive medical care, housing, education for dependents, and access to canteen facilities. Post-retirement, officers continue to enjoy privileges that ensure a comfortable life for themselves and their families, providing stability and peace of mind (10 Reasons Why You Should Join Indian Armed Forces).
9. Life Full of Adventures
The Indian Army promises a life brimming with adventure and excitement. From participating in joint military exercises to handling critical operations, every day presents new challenges and experiences. The IMA prepares you to embrace these adventures, equipping you with the skills to thrive in dynamic and unpredictable environments.
10. Upholding Values
The IMA instills core values such as loyalty, duty, service, and integrity, which become the guiding principles of your life. These values are not merely taught but lived daily, shaping you into a leader of character. By embodying these principles, you inspire others and contribute to a culture of honor and excellence within the armed forces.
Pathways to Join the IMA
To join the IMA, candidates typically pursue entry through the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), or the National Defence Academy (NDA) for those after 12th grade. Other routes include the Technical Graduate Course (TGC) and University Entry Scheme. Each pathway requires clearing the SSB interview, a rigorous assessment of officer-like qualities. Preparation is key, and resources like those offered by SSBCrack can significantly enhance your chances of success.
Preparation Resources
For aspirants, thorough preparation is essential. SSBCrack, a leading platform for defence aspirants, offers a wealth of resources to help you navigate the journey to the IMA. Here are some recommended materials and articles:
How to Join Indian Army after 12th: A comprehensive guide for young aspirants looking to start their journey early.
How To Join Indian Military Academy (IMA): Detailed insights into the various entry methods and preparation tips.
Indian Military Academy, Dream of Every Defence Aspirant: An inspiring article on why the IMA is a coveted destination.
SSB Interview Preparation eBooks: Expert-recommended eBooks to ace the SSB interview.
Best SSB Interview Books: A curated list of study materials for comprehensive preparation.
These resources from ssbcrackexams.com and shop.ssbcrack.com provide valuable guidance, from exam strategies to SSB interview techniques, ensuring you are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
The IMA Experience
Life at the IMA is a blend of discipline, learning, and camaraderie. The academy’s 1,400-acre campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including firing ranges, obstacle courses, and academic halls. Cadets, referred to as Gentlemen Cadets, undergo a one-year training program (or longer for NDA entrants) that transforms them into capable officers. The motto “Valour and Wisdom” guides every aspect of training, emphasizing both courage and intellect.
Why the IMA Stands Out
The IMA is unique in its ability to combine tradition with modernity. It upholds a legacy of excellence while adapting to the evolving needs of the Indian Army. The academy’s focus on leadership, ethics, and service sets it apart as a premier institution. For those who seek a life of purpose, the IMA offers an unmatched opportunity to make a difference.
Conclusion
Joining the Indian Military Academy is a decision that promises a life of honor, adventure, and service. It is a chance to serve the nation, grow as a leader, and be part of a legacy that inspires millions. With the right preparation and determination, you can turn your dream of joining the IMA into reality. Explore the resources provided by SSBCrack, embrace the challenge, and take the first step toward a rewarding career in the Indian Army.
In a significant judgment, a special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Mumbai acquitted Lieutenant Colonel Prasad Shrikant Purohit and six others in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, citing insufficient evidence and irregularities in the investigation.
Addressing the media after the verdict, Lieutenant Colonel Purohit said, “I am a soldier who loves this country immensely. The country must always remain supreme and its foundations strong.” His words reflected both relief and patriotism after being entangled in one of India’s most controversial terror cases for over 15 years.
Lieutenant Colonel Purohit was accused in the September 2008 blast in Malegaon, Maharashtra, which killed six people and injured over a hundred. He was arrested later that year and spent almost nine years in prison before being granted bail in 2017. His acquittal marks a dramatic turn in a case that had drawn nationwide attention due to its political and military implications.
Purohit did not mince words while speaking about the ordeal he faced. “I have been victimised by mentally disturbed and sick individuals,” he said, alleging that some people in positions of power had misused their authority. “We had to endure it,” he added.
The special court noted several inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case. It stated that there was no conclusive evidence linking Purohit directly to the conspiracy or execution of the blast. The court also highlighted technical errors such as an improper spot panchnama and failure to establish whether the motorcycle used in the explosion was conclusively connected to the accused.
Importantly, the court observed that mere suspicion, however strong, cannot substitute for legal proof in a criminal case. “It could not be established that the motorcycle alone was used in the blast, nor was there any evidence to show that Prasad Purohit kept RDX at his residence,” the judgment stated.
In a statement made in court, Purohit thanked the judiciary for the opportunity to serve his nation again. “I thank you for giving me a chance to serve my nation and my organisation with the same conviction I had before I was framed. I don’t blame any organisation; it is the individuals inside these organisations who have done wrong.”
The verdict brings to a close a controversial chapter in India’s counterterrorism history, but it also raises critical questions about the politicisation of investigations and the need for institutional accountability. While the legal battle may be over for now, the larger debate surrounding the case is far from settled.
Just hours after imposing steep tariffs on Indian imports, US President Donald Trump announced a new oil partnership with Pakistan, describing it as a “massive” joint effort to develop Islamabad’s untapped oil reserves. The unexpected move has added a new layer of complexity to South Asia’s energy and geopolitical landscape.
“We have just concluded a deal with the country of Pakistan, whereby Pakistan and the United States will work together on developing their massive oil reserves,” Trump posted on his social media platform, Truth Social. “We are in the process of choosing the oil company that will lead this partnership. Who knows, maybe they’ll be selling oil to India some day!”
We are very busy in the White House today working on Trade Deals. I have spoken to the Leaders of many Countries, all of whom want to make the United States “extremely happy.” I will be meeting with the South Korean Trade Delegation this afternoon. South Korea is right now at a…
— Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) July 30, 2025
The announcement comes amid growing US-India trade friction. On the same day, Trump revealed a 25 percent tariff and additional penalties on Indian imports, citing India’s continued purchase of Russian oil and trade imbalances with the US. Trump’s latest statements signal a shifting focus in Washington’s regional trade priorities.
There were no immediate comments from the Pakistani embassy in Washington, and Trump provided no details about the specific reserves to be explored or the timeline for the partnership.
The US President also claimed he had been actively engaging with global leaders on trade matters. “We are very busy in the White House today working on trade deals,” he wrote, mentioning a scheduled meeting with a South Korean trade delegation. He added that countries are making offers to reduce tariffs and help narrow America’s trade deficit.
This oil partnership with Pakistan marks a significant development in US regional engagement, especially at a time when Washington is tightening economic pressure on India. Analysts suggest the move could reshape energy alliances and further strain US-India ties, particularly as New Delhi continues to deepen its defence and energy cooperation with Russia.
