Lieutenant General P K Mishra, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps, along with the GOC of Counter Insurgency Force (Romeo), visited the Headquarters of Romeo Force in Rajouri on Wednesday to assess the prevailing security situation in the region. The visit underscores the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to maintain stability in Jammu and Kashmir amid counter-terrorism operations.
During the visit, the GOC reviewed operational preparedness and commended the troops for their professionalism in handling challenging conditions in the Rajouri sector, a critical area under the White Knight Corps’ jurisdiction. The XVI Corps, headquartered in Nagrota, oversees the Romeo Force, which operates in the Rajouri and Poonch districts as part of Operation Rakshak—a counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism mission that has been active since 1990.
A photograph shared by the White Knight Corps on X showed the GOC and other military personnel posing in front of the “Gate of Salutation” at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, a monument inaugurated in 2019 to honor Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. The memorial, located near India Gate, has become a significant site for military tributes, replacing the Amar Jawan Jyoti as the primary venue for such ceremonies.
In a statement posted on X, the White Knight Corps highlighted the GOC’s appreciation for the invaluable contributions of veterans in supporting ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. A second image shared in the post depicted a group of military personnel alongside civilians, likely veterans, in a more informal setting, reflecting the Corps’ engagement with local communities and former soldiers in the region.
The White Knight Corps continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining security in Jammu and Kashmir, working in tandem with other security forces under Operation Rakshak to ensure peace and stability. The GOC’s visit to Rajouri reaffirms the Army’s commitment to addressing security challenges while fostering collaboration with veterans and local stakeholders.
Jamnagar, Gujarat – April 2, 2025: A Jaguar fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed in Jamnagar, Gujarat, earlier today, marking yet another incident involving the aging fleet of strike aircraft. The crash occurred during a routine training sortie, with preliminary reports indicating the presence of two pilots aboard the trainer variant of the aircraft.
According to Prem Sukh Delu, Superintendent of Police (SP) Jamnagar, one pilot has been successfully rescued and transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Rescue operations are currently underway to locate and extract the second pilot, whose condition remains unknown at this time. “There were two pilots in the trainer aircraft of the Air Force. One has been rescued and taken to the hospital. Operations are underway to rescue the other pilot,” Delu stated.
The incident was first reported by defense sources, with visuals of the crash site showing scattered wreckage, though specific details about the cause remain unclear. Senior IAF officials have arrived at the scene to oversee the response and assess the situation. The IAF has not yet released an official statement, but a Court of Inquiry is expected to be ordered to investigate the circumstances leading to the crash.
This marks the latest in a series of incidents involving the IAF’s Jaguar fleet, which has been a critical component of India’s strike and reconnaissance capabilities since the late 1970s. The aircraft, operated from bases including Jamnagar, Ambala, and Gorakhpur, have faced scrutiny due to their age and recurring technical issues. Just last month, on March 7, 2025, a Jaguar crashed near Ambala, Haryana, due to a system malfunction, though the pilot ejected safely in that instance.
Today’s crash has reignited discussions about the reliability of the Jaguar fleet, which numbers around 120 aircraft. While the IAF has been upgrading these jets with modern avionics like the DARIN III system, incidents like this highlight the challenges of maintaining an aging platform. More details are awaited as rescue efforts continue and the investigation begins.
The local community and authorities are on high alert, with emergency services mobilized to support the ongoing operations. Updates will follow as the situation develops.
When disaster strikes, heroes rise — and once again, the Indian Army has proven that courage and compassion know no borders. Following the devastating earthquake that hit Myanmar, the Indian Army has launched #OperationBrahma, extending a strong arm of support to the people of Mandalay.
Under this humanitarian mission, a fully operational 200-bed field hospital has been swiftly established by a 118-member medical team of Airborne Angels from the elite Shatrujeet Brigade, who were airlifted in record time by two IAF C-17 Heavy Lift aircraft.
The efforts on the ground speak volumes:
145 patients treated
34 admitted for inpatient care
550 laboratory tests conducted
33 X-rays performed
5 life-saving surgeries completed
This hospital is equipped for critical surgeries, emergency care, dental check-ups, diagnostic tests, and round-the-clock medical assistance — making it a beacon of hope for hundreds of earthquake victims.
This mission is not just about emergency care — it’s a reflection of India’s timeless value of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ — the belief that “The World is One Family.” It also underlines India’s unwavering ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, showcasing solidarity in times of need.
The Indian Army has gone beyond the call of duty — not as mere soldiers, but as global guardians of humanity. Every picture from the field is not just a story of rescue, but of resilience, kindness, and unity.
The National Defence Academy (NDA) has recently marked a significant milestone in its history by welcoming female cadets into its ranks. Among these pioneering women is Battalion Cadet Captain Ritul Duhan, who stands as a testament to perseverance, dedication, and the spirit of service. As the first batch of female cadets prepares to graduate, Ritul’s journey reflects not only her personal achievements but also the broader evolution of gender roles within India’s armed forces.
A Historic Induction
In 2021, the NDA opened its doors to female candidates for the first time in its 75-year history. This monumental decision paved the way for women like Ritul to pursue their dreams of serving in the military. Hailing from Hisar, Haryana, Ritul has always been driven by a passion for sports and academics. Before joining the NDA, she was an accomplished national-level athlete and a state-level debater, showcasing her multifaceted talents.
Ritul recalls the moment she learned about the NDA’s decision to accept female cadets: “It was a historic step to induct female cadets in the NDA. Being part of the first course inducted, I feel obliged and privileged.” This sense of responsibility weighs heavily on her, as she recognizes that her actions will influence future generations of women aspiring to join the armed forces.
Life at the NDA
The daily routine at the NDA is rigorous and demanding, designed to mold cadets into disciplined leaders. Ritul’s day begins at 5 AM, where she and her fellow cadets gather for the NDA prayer and the honour code. The camaraderie built during these early mornings fosters a sense of unity among the cadets, essential for their future roles as leaders.
A Typical Day
A day in the life of a cadet is structured yet varied:
Morning Drills: The cadets engage in outdoor training that includes physical exercises, which are crucial for building stamina and teamwork.
Academic Sessions: After physical training, cadets attend classes for their bachelor’s degrees, ensuring that they receive a well-rounded education.
Lunch and Recreation: Following classes, cadets enjoy lunch, often discussing the morning’s activities and preparing for the afternoon’s challenges.
Physical Training and Games: The afternoons are dedicated to physical training, sports, and other recreational activities, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness.
Study Time: Cadets have designated study periods to focus on their academic responsibilities.
Evening Procedures: The day concludes with the Ante Room procedure, where cadets review the next day’s agenda, followed by dinner and personal time.
This structured environment not only develops physical endurance but also instills leadership qualities, as senior cadets guide the daily schedule.
Ritul’s Motivation and Journey
Ritul’s journey to the NDA was fueled by a desire to serve her country and a passion for the military. “When I read about the NDA, I was very impressed by its glorious history,” she shared. After completing her first year of engineering, she decided to pursue her dream of joining the armed forces, leading her to prepare for the NDA entrance exam.
Her hard work paid off when she successfully cleared the exam, a moment that filled her parents with pride. “The pride in my parents’ eyes made me realize this is what I was destined for,” Ritul reflected. This sense of purpose has been a driving force throughout her training.
Overcoming Challenges
The initial phase of integrating female cadets into the NDA was not without its challenges. Ritul acknowledges that there were uncertainties and unfamiliarities for both the female cadets and the academy staff. However, she emphasizes that significant progress has been made over the past three years. The academy has adapted its training protocols to better accommodate female cadets, recognizing the physiological differences and unique needs of women in the military.
Adaptations and Changes
Some of the notable changes implemented at the NDA include:
Physical Training Adjustments: Training regimens have been modified to ensure that they are inclusive and effective for female cadets.
Increased Opportunities: Female cadets now have access to the same training camps, games, and competitions as their male counterparts.
Support Systems: The establishment of mentorship programs allows junior cadets to seek guidance from their seniors, fostering a supportive environment.
These adaptations have not only enhanced the experience for female cadets but have also enriched the overall culture of the NDA.
As Battalion Cadet Captain, Ritul holds a position of leadership that comes with significant responsibilities. She understands that her role extends beyond completing her training; she is also paving the way for future female leaders in the armed forces. “We are not just completing our training; we are paving the way for future leadership and inspiring younger cadets who will follow our path,” she stated during a recent event aimed at motivating aspiring candidates to join the military.
Inspiring Others
Ritul’s journey serves as an inspiration for many young women who aspire to join the armed forces. She encourages them to embrace the opportunities available at the NDA, assuring them that any initial apprehensions will dissipate once they experience the training firsthand. “The NDA transforms you beyond your expectations, pushing your limits daily through a comprehensive program,” she advises.
The Importance of Education and Personal Growth
Ritul emphasizes that the NDA is not just about military training; it is also a platform for personal growth and academic excellence. The curriculum is designed to ensure that cadets excel in both their military and academic pursuits. “It’s a platform for training and personal growth,” she asserts, highlighting the balance that the NDA maintains between education and physical training.
Academic Excellence
To thrive at the NDA, cadets must possess a strong academic foundation. Ritul herself excelled in mathematics, attempting 117 questions in the NDA entrance exam and scoring over 250 in that section. Her academic achievements underscore the importance of being well-rounded, a quality that is highly valued in military leaders.
Future Aspirations
As Ritul prepares to graduate, she reflects on her aspirations for the future. Upon completing her training at the NDA, she will join one of the respective forces’ academies for advanced military training before being commissioned into the armed forces. “I am excited about what lies ahead and look forward to serving my country with honor and dedication,” she states with conviction.
A Call to Action for Aspiring Cadets
Ritul’s journey is a powerful reminder of the opportunities available for women in the Indian armed forces. She encourages aspiring cadets to pursue their dreams relentlessly. “If we could do it, many more are doing it, and so can you all. NDA will not only make you tougher mentally but also physically. It teaches you how to push limits,” she asserts.
Battalion Cadet Captain Ritul Duhan’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and leadership. As she and her fellow female cadets prepare to graduate from the NDA, they symbolize a new era of inclusivity and empowerment within the Indian armed forces. Ritul’s journey serves as an inspiration to countless young women who dream of serving their country, proving that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
Air Commodore Prateek Kinra has assumed charge as the Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Air Force Hospital, Jorhat, marking a significant leadership transition at one of the key medical establishments in the Eastern sector.
A distinguished pathologist with specialization in gastrointestinal pathology, Air Cmde Kinra brings with him a wealth of experience and clinical acumen. Prior to his current appointment, he was serving as Air Commodore MS (P) at Air Headquarters, where he played a pivotal role in medical planning and personnel management within the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS).
His appointment at Air Force Hospital, Jorhat, comes at a time when the Indian Air Force continues to strengthen its medical infrastructure to meet both operational and peacetime healthcare demands in the North Eastern region.
Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), extended her compliments and best wishes to Air Cmde Kinra on taking over the prestigious assignment.
Under his leadership, the hospital is expected to further its commitment to excellence in patient care, clinical training, and medical support to air warriors and their families in the region.
Cape Town, 01 April 2025:INSV Tarini, the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel, has successfully reached Cape Town, South Africa, completing the fourth leg of the Navika Sagar Parikrama II (NSP II) expedition. The crew and the vessel were warmly received by Ms Ruby Jaspreet, Consul General of India at Cape Town, Rear Admiral (JG) Lisa Hendricks, Chief of Staff, South African Navy Fleet, and Captain Atul Sapahia, Defence Adviser of India at Pretoria. The South African Naval Band also performed to mark the ceremonial welcome.
The ongoing Navika Sagar Parikrama II is being undertaken by two officers of the Indian Navy—Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A—who are navigating the globe on INSV Tarini, a 56-foot indigenously built sailing vessel, showcasing India’s naval capabilities, indigenous manufacturing, and the empowerment of women in the armed forces.
The expedition was flagged off from Goa on 02 October 2024 by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, and is expected to cover over 23,400 nautical miles (approximately 43,300 km) over eight months. Tarini is scheduled to return to Goa in May 2025. So far, the journey has included stopovers at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), and Port Stanley (Falkland Islands, UK) before arriving in Cape Town.
Challenging Voyage Across Rough Waters
The voyage has been arduous and demanding, with the officers navigating through stormy seas, extreme cold, and unpredictable weather. The crew encountered winds exceeding 50 knots (93 kmph) and waves as high as 7 meters (23 feet), testing both the endurance of the vessel and the resolve of its crew.
INSV Tarini will remain at the Royal Cape Yacht Club for two weeks for scheduled maintenance and repairs. During this period, the crew will also engage in professional and cultural interactions with the South African Navy at Simon’s Town Naval Base and Gordon’s Bay Naval College, and participate in community outreach events.
Strengthening Maritime Cooperation and Women’s Empowerment
The arrival of INSV Tarini in Cape Town underscores the strengthening bilateral maritime cooperation between India and South Africa. It also reflects India’s deep commitment to promoting cooperation with friendly nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The expedition aligns with broader strategic initiatives, such as Make in India, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and increased women’s participation in the Indian Armed Forces.
The voyage not only promotes women empowerment but also contributes to marine and scientific research, inspiring young women to pursue careers in the Services and particularly in the Indian Navy.
Recent India–South Africa Naval Engagements
INSV Tarini’s Cape Town stopover is part of a larger framework of naval cooperation between the two countries. In October 2024, INS Talwar participated in the 8th edition of Exercise IBSAMAR in South Africa, and in January 2025, Indian Navy’s stealth frigate INS Tushil made a port call at Durban, engaging with the South African Navy and the Indian diaspora in Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Such engagements underscore the Indian Navy’s continued focus on enhancing partnerships in the IOR, sharing best practices, and addressing common maritime challenges.
INSV Tarini is expected to depart Cape Town on 15 April 2025, continuing its historic circumnavigation as part of the second edition of the Navika Sagar Parikrama, carrying the spirit of India’s maritime heritage and woman-led excellence across the world’s oceans.
New Delhi, 02 April 2025: In a significant blow to maritime drug trafficking networks, INS Tarkash, a frontline frigate of the Indian Navy, has seized over 2,500 kg of narcotics during a high-risk operation in the Western Indian Ocean. Operating under the Western Naval Command, this seizure highlights the Indian Navy’s strong commitment to combating maritime crime and safeguarding regional maritime security.
Coordinated Maritime Interdiction Operation
Deployed in the Western Indian Ocean since January 2025 for Maritime Security Operations, INS Tarkash is actively supporting Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, a multinational naval partnership under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) headquartered in Bahrain. The seizure occurred during Operation Anzac Tiger, a joint initiative under CTF 150 aimed at disrupting illicit trafficking and enhancing maritime domain awareness in international waters.
On 31 March 2025, while on patrol, INS Tarkash received multiple intelligence inputs from Indian Navy P-8I long-range maritime patrol aircraft about suspicious vessels believed to be engaged in narcotics smuggling. Responding swiftly, the ship altered its course to intercept and investigate these vessels.
Seizure of Dhow with Narcotics
A coordinated effort between the ship’s crew, P-8I aircraft, and the Maritime Operations Centre in Mumbai enabled INS Tarkash to successfully identify and board a suspect Dhow vessel. The ship’s integral helicopter was also launched to maintain aerial surveillance and track other suspicious vessels in the area.
A specialist boarding team, accompanied by Marine Commandos, boarded the Dhow and conducted an extensive search. During the operation, the team discovered multiple sealed packets hidden within cargo compartments. Upon further inspection, the vessel was found to be carrying 2,386 kg of hashish and 121 kg of heroin, amounting to over 2,500 kg of narcotics. The crew of the Dhow was detained and subjected to a detailed interrogation regarding their activities and links to other vessels operating in the region.
Strategic and Regional Impact
This operation represents one of the largest maritime drug seizures by the Indian Navy in recent years. The interception and seizure demonstrate the professionalism, vigilance, and readiness of the Indian Navy in undertaking complex counter-narcotics operations in hostile and challenging environments.
The success of this mission reinforces India’s proactive stance in ensuring free, open, and secure maritime routes, especially in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), which remains vulnerable to transnational crimes such as narcotics trafficking, arms smuggling, and human trafficking.
Through its continued participation in multinational task forces such as CTF 150, the Indian Navy plays a critical role in promoting regional cooperation, maritime domain awareness, and collective security.
This interception by INS Tarkash reaffirms the Indian Navy’s resolve to act decisively against threats to maritime security and maintain vigilance across high-risk international waters.
In a landmark achievement, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has reopened the Zojila Pass in a record time of just 32 days, ensuring early and critical connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh. The reopening was marked by Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, Director General, BRO, who flagged off the first convoy towards Ladakh, signifying the resumption of movement on this vital route.
Zojila Pass, one of the most challenging high-altitude mountain passes in the world, serves as a strategic lifeline for Ladakh. Located at an altitude of over 11,500 feet, it is often battered by heavy snowfall and treacherous weather, resulting in its seasonal closure during winter months.
Short but Intense Closure Period
This year, the Pass experienced a relatively short but intense closure period. Due to a Western Disturbance, the region was lashed with relentless snowfall over 17 consecutive days, from 27 February to 16 March 2025, leading to massive snow accumulation and disruption of connectivity. Despite the difficult terrain and hostile weather conditions, BRO launched a massive snow clearance operation starting 17 March and completed the task in just 15 days, by 31 March — a feat hailed as a record in high-altitude road maintenance.
Strategic and Humanitarian Importance
The early reopening of the Zojila Pass is of immense strategic, logistical, and humanitarian importance. This route is critical for the movement of troops, military logistics, medical supplies, fuel, and essential commodities to Ladakh. For local populations, it is the main access route to the Kashmir Valley for trade, medical emergencies, education, and employment. Its timely opening reduces the region’s dependence on expensive air connectivity and restores economic and social normalcy.
Technological Advancements and BRO’s Commitment
The milestone achieved this year reflects the technological advancements and improved snow clearance techniques adopted by BRO. From once being closed for nearly six months each year, Zojila Pass now witnesses closure for just a few weeks, thanks to modern equipment, real-time weather monitoring, and round-the-clock operations by dedicated BRO teams.
Projects Beacon in Kashmir and Vijayak in Ladakh—two critical BRO units—played a key role in this operation, working tirelessly in sub-zero temperatures, braving high-velocity winds, and navigating avalanche-prone zones to complete the task well ahead of schedule.
A Testament to BRO’s Grit and Dedication
The successful and early reopening of Zojila Pass once again showcases the resilience, professionalism, and commitment of the Border Roads Organisation to nation-building. It ensures that both strategic and humanitarian lifelines remain operational, reaffirming BRO’s motto of being “Ever Onward.”
This remarkable achievement not only sets a new benchmark for high-altitude road connectivity but also strengthens the Indian Armed Forces’ operational readiness and assures support to the people of Ladakh.
India’s defence exports have achieved a record high of ₹23,622 crore (approximately USD 2.76 billion) in the Financial Year 2024-25, reflecting a significant 12.04% increase over the previous year’s figure of ₹21,083 crore. The growth of ₹2,539 crore underlines the rising global demand for Indian-made defence systems and components, reinforcing India’s emergence as a major contributor to the international defence supply chain.
DPSUs Lead the Surge in Exports
A notable aspect of this growth has been the remarkable performance of Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), which recorded a 42.85% increase in exports this year. The DPSUs contributed ₹8,389 crore to the total export value in FY 2024-25, up from ₹5,874 crore in FY 2023-24. The private sector remained a strong contributor, accounting for ₹15,233 crore of the total exports, maintaining its steady performance from the previous fiscal’s ₹15,209 crore.
The combined efforts of both sectors have helped Indian defence products find acceptance across the globe, with exports now reaching around 80 countries. Items exported include ammunition, arms, sub-systems/systems, and various parts and components, highlighting India’s expanding capabilities across the defence manufacturing spectrum.
Government’s Push for Export Reforms
The surge in exports comes on the back of continued policy reforms and structural enhancements undertaken by the Government to encourage defence production and exports. These include:
Simplification of the industrial licensing procedure
Removal of parts and components from the licensing regime
Extension of validity periods for licenses
Further simplification of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for granting export authorisations
In FY 2024-25, a total of 1,762 export authorisations were issued through the Department of Defence Production’s dedicated portal, marking a 16.92% increase from 1,507 in the previous year. The number of registered defence exporters also rose by 17.4%, signifying growing participation of Indian industry in the global defence market.
India’s defence exports have surged to a record high of Rs 23,622 crore in the FY 2024-25. An impressive growth of Rs 2,539 crore or 12.04% has been registered in the just-concluded FY over the defence exports figures of FY 2023-24, which were Rs 21,083 crore.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, in a post on social media platform X, congratulated all stakeholders, including industry, government departments, and the armed forces, for their role in achieving this milestone. He reiterated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is steadily moving towards its target of achieving ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.
Self-Reliance and Global Presence
India’s transformation from being a primarily import-dependent nation to a self-reliant defence manufacturing power has been one of the defining developments in recent years. The government’s focus on ‘Aatmanirbharta in Defence’ has been instrumental in fostering innovation, expanding production capabilities, and ensuring that Indian defence products meet global quality and operational standards.
The record-breaking export figures for FY 2024-25 reaffirm India’s growing stature as a trusted defence exporter and reflect the success of the Government’s proactive policies to make India a key player in the global defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The Army Commanders’ Conference, a premier biannual event of the Indian Army’s apex leadership, commenced in New Delhi today and will continue till 04 April 2025. The conference provides a vital platform for the senior leadership of the Indian Army to review the overall security situation, strategize on future threats, and deliberate on key operational and administrative issues.
The gathering is aimed at shaping the Indian Army into a more agile, adaptive, technologically enabled, and future-ready force. Senior commanders from all Army Commands, Principal Staff Officers, and other top-level officials are participating in the high-level discussions.
Focus on Operational Readiness and Emerging Challenges
Over the course of four days, the conference will review and assess the current internal and external security environment, evaluate ongoing operations, and discuss strategic preparedness to address emerging threats and challenges. Key topics include improving the operational responsiveness of the Field Army and enhancing resilience in logistics, communication, and combat readiness.
Raksha Mantri to Chair Key Session
Shri Rajnath Singh, Hon’ble Raksha Mantri, will chair the Raksha Mantri Session and deliver the keynote address during the conference. This session will include a presentation on the Indian Army’s initiatives under the declared ‘Year of Reforms’, highlighting institutional improvements and modernization efforts across the force.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) will also address the senior leadership, focusing on jointness, integration, and tri-service synergy in operations and planning.
Vision for a ‘Saksham & Sashakt Bharat’
A special session during the conference will feature a talk by the CEO of NITI Aayog, who will outline India’s developmental journey and share insights on the envisioned role of the Indian Armed Forces in building a ‘Saksham & Sashakt Bharat’ — a capable and empowered India. The address is expected to align national aspirations with the evolving role of the military in shaping national security and development.
Deliberations on Reforms and Quality of Life
Reflecting the Indian Army’s commitment to transformation, the conference will include discussions on new methodologies for effective decision-making and management reforms to improve organizational health, structural efficiency, and command processes. There will also be focused sessions on personnel welfare, housing, education, health, and administrative improvements aimed at enhancing the quality of life for soldiers and their families.
The conference reaffirms the Indian Army’s approach to remain forward-looking and reform-driven, in line with its role as a modern and responsive force safeguarding national interests. The decisions and recommendations from the conference will shape future policy directions and contribute to strengthening India’s defence preparedness in the years ahead.
