A recent internal review by Lieutenant General Rajeev Puri, who recently concluded his tenure as the commander of the 17 Mountain Strike Corps, has sparked significant discussion within the Indian Army regarding the integration and performance of women officers in leadership roles. This review comes nearly two years after a landmark Supreme Court ruling that enabled the promotion of women to the rank of Colonel, representing a significant step toward gender equality within the military.

In his critique, Lt. General Puri identified “mundane ego issues” and a “lack of empathy” as alarming trends among the 108 women officers promoted to Colonel. His findings, communicated in a letter to General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command, Lt. General Ram Chander Tiwari, flag serious concerns relating to interpersonal dynamics and management issues within units led by these women officers.

According to information obtained from defense sources, the Army remains committed to the ongoing induction and training of women officers, emphasizing that the suggestions raised by Lt. General Puri are aimed at enhancing training standards rather than undermining women’s roles in the military. However, the review brought to light specific challenges that have arisen in units commanded by female officers, including an increase in management-related problems. Lt. General Puri noted that many of these issues stem from an apparent failure to handle personnel matters with the necessary tact and understanding, suggesting a predominant focus on resolving conflicts through authority rather than mutual respect.

The critique identified a troubling “my way or the highway” mentality which Puri argued undermines the collaborative decision-making essential in military leadership. He expressed concerns about what he described as an “exaggerated tendency to complaint,” noting that interpersonal friction has resulted in damaging stress levels within affected units. The officer’s commentary pointed to a prevalent atmosphere of prejudice and mistrust in some interactions, which he suggested was exacerbated by a perceived “misplaced sense of entitlement” among certain women officers, further complicating the leadership landscape.

While the Army has opened avenues for women to command various critical units, including air defense and intelligence, the review underscored that many Colonel-rank women officers have not had adequate exposure to operational command roles, potentially limiting their understanding of the associated challenges. Lt. General Puri argued that the desire among these officers to establish authority in traditionally male-dominated roles might lead to overzealous management styles that could overlook the emotional and professional needs of their subordinates.

In response to the review, defense sources clarified that this assessment stems from the first batch of women in command positions and that the Army is committed to the long-term improvement of leadership training aimed at fully integrating women into the force. The sources indicated that advancing women to command roles must be accompanied by a tailored training approach, one that acknowledges the extensive experience needed in junior leadership positions to properly prepare for higher command.

The matter is likely to ignite considerable debate regarding gender dynamics within the military, particularly as the Army continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by this pivotal moment in its history. As the institution evolves, the focus is on fostering a balanced environment that promotes effective leadership, irrespective of gender, while ensuring that all officers, male or female, are equipped to lead with empathy and understanding.

An Indian defense delegation is set to visit Brazil on December 8 and 9 for the Brazil-India Dialogue of the Defense Industry (DID), a critical forum where extensive discussions on defense procurement and collaboration are anticipated. Central to the dialogue will be the potential purchase of Brazilian transport aircraft and discussions surrounding the sale of Indian fighter jets.

Brazilian company Embraer is particularly interested in securing a significant contract with the Indian Air Force (IAF) through the sale of its C-390 Millennium Medium Transport Aircraft. The C-390 embodies advanced capabilities as a multi-mission, twin-engine tactical transport aircraft and has proven itself in the Brazilian Air Force since its induction in 2019, accumulating over 15,000 flight hours. In seeking to enhance its strategic capabilities, Brazil is also exploring the possibility of acquiring the Indian-made Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas for its own air force.

The defense ties between India and Brazil are evolving rapidly. An illustrative example is the collaboration between Brazilian company Taurus Armas and India’s Jindal Defence, which aims to manufacture a variety of small arms under the brand name “J D Taurus,” with a 51:49 equity structure. This venture highlights the growing interdependence and shared objectives within the defense sectors of both nations.

During the upcoming dialogue in Sao Jose dos Campos, high-level representatives from Embraer, the Brazilian Ministry of Defense, and Brazilian government officials are expected to meet. This assembly presents a golden opportunity for the signing of agreements potentially worth billions of dollars, especially in light of recent discussions between Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit, where both leaders expressed a mutual desire for elevating bilateral cooperation across strategic sectors, including defense.

A key topic of intrigue is the enhancement of collaborative efforts in missiles and submarines. Both nations are exploring possibilities involving advanced military equipment, such as the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Akash surface-to-air missile system. Brazil’s interest in joint production capabilities aims to establish a regional hub for weapons systems tailor-made for Latin American markets.

For instance, the C-390 proposal aims to support the IAF’s Medium Transport Aircraft tender, where the Brazilian firm intends to collaborate with Mahindra for local production, intending to produce between 40 to 80 units under India’s Make in India initiative. This strategic partnership is set to involve technology transfer and localized assembly for significant indigenization.

Meanwhile, the Indian Akash missile system is also in consideration for Brazil’s military arsenal, advocated through a proposed government-to-government agreement. Offered as an “Iron Dome” equivalent, the Akash is designed to counter aerial threats efficiently, boasting a high operational readiness and the capability to engage multiple targets at considerable distances. The project’s indigenization efforts aim to enhance local manufacturing content progressively.

As the Brazilian military develops its first nuclear-powered attack submarine, slated for launch in 2029, there is a growing interest in integrating the BrahMos-NG system as part of this modernization initiative. This could align with Brazil’s Gripen aircraft, boosting their operational capabilities.

With its robust defense market projected to grow significantly from an estimated US$1.38 billion in 2024 to US$1.78 billion by 2029, Latin America offers fertile grounds for India-Brazil collaboration in the defense sector. Major-Brigadier Rui Chagas Mesquita, Secretary of Brazilian Defence Products, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating the intent to co-develop products that could serve both nations and the broader Latin American market.

Overall, the forthcoming dialogue between the Indian delegation and Brazilian defense officials signifies a pivotal moment in the bilateral relations, aiming not only to bolster military capabilities but also to foster long-term strategic ties through joint ventures and technology exchanges. The outcomes of this dialogue could redefine the defense landscape in both nations and beyond.

As the Indian Army embraces a more inclusive framework, the involvement of women officers is becoming increasingly significant, with their roles expanding from command positions to critical strategic decision-making. Despite notable advancements, challenges persist, particularly highlighted in the recent context of the Indian Army’s 17 Corps, also known as the Brahmastra Corps, located in Panagarh, West Bengal. This vital formation is charged with the protection of the strategically crucial Siliguri Corridor and the Doklam region, a focal point during the 2017 standoff with China. These developments have stirred a deeper conversation surrounding the operational readiness and behavioral dynamics of women officers at the Colonel rank.

The discourse was initiated when a former Corps Commander of the 17 Corps raised concerns regarding the leadership preparedness of women officers in a letter to a senior Army official. This correspondence, reported by the Times of India, calls into question the effectiveness and integration of women in command roles, shedding light on gender disparities that affect operational performance.

Maj Gen VK Singh (Retd) has voiced strong support for the former Commander’s letter, underscoring the weight of the concerns expressed. He posited that the need for such communication reflects genuine observations and worries aimed not at undermining women in the military but at enhancing the Army’s overall efficacy. He emphasized that both men and women undergo the same training processes, yet acknowledged the necessity of accommodating physiological differences to ensure equal opportunities. He reiterated that while women should be granted the same chances to succeed, there are inherent risks associated with frontline assignments, which need to be taken into account.

However, the dialogue raised by former Lt Gen Puri, who commanded the 17 Corps, points to structural inequalities within the Army’s development programs. In a recent communication with Lt Gen RC Tiwari, he highlighted that women officers are often deprived of essential training opportunities, such as junior command and staff college courses, which are critical for ascension to commanding roles. His detailed observations exposed behavioral patterns among female officers, citing issues like frequent grievances against junior ranks, limited collaboration in decision-making processes, and an overt centralization of authority that may lead to undue stress across ranks.

The Indian Army has made commendable strides in integrating women across various branches. Although core combat roles in infantry and mechanized units are yet to open, women have made their mark in support arms, including signals, engineers, and intelligence. These sectors significantly impact military operations, indicating a shift towards recognizing women’s contributions in essential roles. The ongoing transition towards inclusivity, bolstered by a Supreme Court mandate for permanent commissions and leadership roles for women, poses unique challenges concerning operational readiness and gender integration.

Despite these hurdles, Maj Gen Singh emphasized the necessity for a gender-neutral approach within the forces, especially as India navigates complex security challenges from neighboring countries. He pointed out that substantial opportunities exist for women in intelligence and cyber domains, where their skills can significantly enhance operational effectiveness away from direct confrontation.

Looking to global examples, the Indian Army can learn from the United States and Israel, both of whom have successfully integrated women into military leadership positions. The US has opened all combat roles to women since 2015, adapting fitness training to gender differences while ensuring mutual respect and collaboration in mixed-gender units. Similarly, Israel’s military framework emphasizes equal foundational training for men and women, with a focus on preparing female officers for high-stress roles, further indicating the effectiveness of comprehensive training in enhancing female military participation.

As women increasingly assume pivotal roles within the Indian Army, the focus must shift towards addressing existing gaps in training and opportunities to foster an environment free from gender biases. This pursuit of a level playing field not only enhances military performance but also affirms the significance of inclusivity in shaping a resilient and effective armed force for the future.

In a troubling incident that has sparked fear and outrage among the residents of Kwath village in Kishtwar, Jammu region, four local men were allegedly tortured by Army personnel on November 20. The villagers, who had long viewed the Army as a source of support rather than intimidation, are now grappling with deep concerns following this shocking event.

On the day of the alleged abuse, the four men received individual summons to an Army camp, leading to their subsequent detention. When the men failed to return home by evening, concerned villagers went to the camp to inquire about them. There, they discovered one of the men injured and in a state of distress. Upon their release later that evening, the four men were reported to have visible injuries, with accounts describing brutal beatings that left two of them vomiting blood. The individuals identified as victims were Mehraj Ud Din, 40, and three men in their 30s: Sajjad Hussain, Abdul Kabir, and Mushtaq Ahmad.

Community reaction has been swift, with residents expressing grave fears of further reprisals. “There’s a rumour that the Army has a list of 40 people from this village,” said resident Dawood Ahmad, highlighting the pervasive anxiety gripping the community. This incident echoes past violence in the region, particularly the killing of three men in Poonch district last year, which also involved allegations of Army torture following a militant attack.

Recent militant activities in Kishtwar district have amplified security concerns, prompting increased military operations. While the Indian Army acknowledged the incident through a social media post, it described the mistreatment as occurring during an operation based on “specific intelligence” regarding terrorist movements. An investigation is currently underway, but villagers report being discouraged from filing official complaints, and efforts to secure medical treatment for the injured were initially thwarted.

Geographically isolated, Kwath village is situated approximately 5 kilometers from the nearest motorable road, necessitating a difficult uphill trek to transport injured villagers. Once the men reached their homes, the full extent of their injuries became apparent, with visible bruising and swelling indicative of severe physical abuse. In a remarkable act of perseverance, the community rallied to carry the injured to a nearby village where transportation to a hospital awaited them, despite attempts by local authorities to redirect them to a police station.

Compounding the situation, local armed civilians known as Village Defence Guards reportedly pressured villagers not to pursue actions against the Army, citing potential repercussions for community relations. The villagers ultimately chose to defy this pressure, continuing their journey to the hospital despite multiple blockades by the Army and police en route.

As tensions rise, the Army has purportedly offered financial compensation and medical care, while promising that such incidents will not recur. Nevertheless, the absence of an official police report raises questions about accountability, with community leaders expressing their decisiveness to forgo a formal complaint in light of assurances from senior Army officials.

The political implications of this incident are also stirring discourse within the community, where residents believe the violence may stem from their recent voting patterns favoring the National Conference in a local election. Several locals sense that the torture was an act of retribution tied to the electoral outcome, exacerbating feelings of mistrust towards security forces.

The fallout from the alleged torture has instilled a deep sense of betrayal among Kwath’s residents, many of whom insist that while any wrongdoing should be addressed, it cannot justify the brutal treatment of innocent individuals. As the investigation unfolds, the villagers remain steadfast in their demand for accountability and justice, hoping that their voices will resonate amidst the larger conflicts brewing in this troubled region.

During a significant address at the Military Institute of Technology (MILIT) in Pune, Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi outlined the evolving dynamics of warfare and the urgent need for the armed forces to adapt to these changes. Speaking to future leaders of the Indian Army currently enrolled in the Defence Services Technical Staff Course (DSTSC), General Dwivedi emphasized the relentless pace of change in military operations and the necessity for the Army to stay ahead of the curve.

General Dwivedi described defence preparedness as not merely a requirement but as an art form that combines strategy and precision. He addressed the numerous emerging threats and challenges that have become increasingly relevant in the Indian context, referencing government initiatives aimed at transforming the Army to better meet these demands.

The Army Chief highlighted the critical importance of military-diplomatic synergy, which consists of operational readiness, strategic alignment, and cohesive coordination. He called for what he termed a ‘seismic shift’ in military thinking, aimed at overhauling and reimagining the tools and techniques used in warfare, suggesting that such an evolution is essential for the future effectiveness of the Indian Army.

In a reflection on the Indian Army’s historical contributions, General Dwivedi expressed pride in its unmatched role in nation-building efforts. He pointed to the Army’s significant involvement in providing humanitarian aid during natural disasters, where it has played a pivotal role in offering solace and hope amid despair. Moreover, he applauded the bravery displayed by the Army in safely evacuating Indian citizens from conflict zones, underscoring a blend of tactical brilliance and humanitarian compassion that defines its ethos.

The general’s remarks are part of a broader effort to inspire and prepare the next generation of military leaders to face the complex challenges of modern warfare, reinforcing the imperative for a forward-thinking approach that combines traditional values with modern strategies.

In a significant development aimed at enhancing operational capabilities in one of the most challenging terrains, the Indian Army has successfully installed optical fibre connectivity at two of its most remote outposts: Siachen Glacier and Daulet Beg Oldie (DBO) in the Ladakh sector. This initiative marks a pivotal step towards ensuring high-speed broadband access in these critical strategic locations, which are situated at elevations exceeding 18,000 feet.

The installation work was carried out by the army’s 14 Corps, often referred to as the Fire Fury Corps, who braved harsh weather conditions to establish this state-of-the-art connectivity. The Corps highlighted their arduous efforts on social media platform X, stating, “Reaching Out To The Farthest & The Highest Battlefield: Amidst the icy heights of #Siachen and #DBO the firefurycorps #Signallers braved the toughest weather conditions to ensure optical fibre connectivity.”

For the first time, optical fibre cables have been laid across the rugged and unforgiving terrain, demonstrating both ingenuity and resilience. The signallers faced numerous challenges, including treacherous crevasses and bone-chilling winds, as they worked diligently to create a seamless communication link vital for operations in these unforgiving conditions.

This advancement in connectivity comes in the wake of President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to the Siachen base camp in September, where she became the first woman and the third overall Indian president to do so. During her visit, she praised the bravery, commitment, and dedication of the soldiers stationed at one of the world’s highest and coldest battlefields. The presidential visit coincided with the 40th anniversary of Operation Meghdoot, which was launched in April 1984 to reclaim the glacier from occupying Pakistani forces.

Siachen, a 76-kilometer-long river of slowly moving ice, remains a strategic military site, with approximately 80% of its posts located above 16,000 feet, the highest being Bana at an elevation of 21,753 feet. In addition to improving communication capabilities, the Indian Army is also constructing a crucial alternative road to the DBO outpost, which is located near the contested Line of Actual Control (LAC). This new pathway will facilitate the movement of personnel, weaponry, and logistics, thus enhancing the reinforcement of frontline operations.

The new connectivity and infrastructure developments underscore the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining operational readiness and ensuring the safety of its troops in one of the most challenging environments worldwide.

In a remarkable achievement for aspiring women in the Indian armed forces, two lady cadets, Charanpreet Kaur and Mahak, from the Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute for Girls located in Mohali, have been selected for pre-commission training at the esteemed Air Force Academy in Dundigal, beginning January 2025. This selection is a significant milestone for both cadets and the institution.

Lady Cadet Charanpreet Kaur, who hails from Kurali in Mohali, is the daughter of Harminder Singh Banwait, a driver employed in a private enterprise. Charanpreet distinguished herself by securing an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 4 among a list of 192 female candidates. Meanwhile, Lady Cadet Mahak, whose father Anil Kumar Dahiya works as a government educator, garnered an AIR of 23. Their outstanding performances not only highlight their personal dedication and hard work but also serve as an inspiring beacon for other young women in Punjab.

In recognition of this achievement, Punjab minister Aman Arora commended the cadets, stating that their success would undoubtedly encourage more girls from the region to aspire to roles in the defense services. He expressed optimism that such accomplishments would lead to greater representation of women in the armed forces. The minister also noted the Punjab government’s initiative to establish a National Defence Academy (NDA) Preparatory Wing for Girls at the Mai Bhago AFPI, which was sanctioned last year. This initiative aims to provide a supportive environment for young women aspiring to join the military.

In related news, over 5,000 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets across various institutes in Odisha celebrated NCC Day 2024 at Cuttack’s Indoor Stadium. The event featured a grand parade and cultural performances that highlighted the rich heritage of Odisha. Minister Suryabanshi Suraj emphasized the vital role that NCC plays in fostering leadership skills and patriotism among youth, encouraging cadets to commit themselves to national service.

Additionally, the first underground shooting range for NCC cadets was inaugurated in Rohini by Delhi Chief Minister Atishi. This state-of-the-art facility, located in the NCC Bhavan, includes six firing lanes and advanced target systems, with a design ensuring safety through bulletproof ceilings. Atishi reinforced the government’s dedication to supporting young talent by removing financial obstacles, referencing the new range and the development of additional facilities planned for Kalkaji.

Prime Minister Modi, reflecting on his personal experiences as an NCC cadet, shared his fond memories during the recent episode of “Mann Ki Baat.” He underscored the program’s significance in cultivating discipline and leadership qualities among youth. In his address, he also highlighted the positive influence of the Indian diaspora in countries such as Guyana. Modi called attention to initiatives aimed at encouraging youth participation in politics and announced a forthcoming ‘Youth Day’ event, in conjunction with praising innovations in waste recycling.

These events collectively underline a growing recognition of the importance of youth empowerment and the support for women in defense services, marking a progressive shift in societal norms and opportunities available to young individuals in India.

Tensions escalated in Imphal West on Tuesday following the alarming disappearance of Laishram Kamalbabu Singh, a 55-year-old member of the Meitei community. Singh, who was employed at the Leimakhong Army Camp in the Kangpokpi district, was last seen on Monday as he left his village, Loitang Khunou, to report for duty. His family, increasingly anxious, reported that his mobile phone has been turned off since he departed, deepening concerns about his well-being.

In response to the situation, police and military personnel are conducting joint search operations in the surrounding areas, particularly near the Kuki-majority Kangpokpi district. Singh has been stationed at the army camp amid ongoing ethnic tensions that erupted in May 2023, resulting in the displacement of numerous Meitei families from Kuki-dominated regions.

As news of Singh’s disappearance spread, residents from Loitang Khunou attempted to travel to Leimakhong in search of him. However, their efforts were thwarted by security forces stationed at Kanto Sabal, who aimed to prevent any potential unrest. Frustrated by the blockage, the villagers resorted to obstructing the road with rocks in protest.

The disappearance of Singh occurs against a backdrop of heightened ethnic strife between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which has already claimed over 250 lives and displaced thousands. The atmosphere remains tense, and authorities are urging the public to maintain calm as investigations into the incident continue.