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Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar Reviews Operational Readiness and Visits Army School in Punjab

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Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Western Command, recently visited the Double Victory Brigade under Vajra Corps in Punjab. The visit focused on evaluating the operational readiness of the brigade, which holds strategic importance due to its deployment along the India-Pakistan border.

The General Officer reviewed the high level of training maintained by the formation and expressed satisfaction with the preparedness of the mechanized units. These units are positioned in a region historically shaped by the aftermath of partition and the 1965 Indo-Pakistan war, continuing to serve as a frontline defense element in India’s western sector.

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As part of his visit, Lt Gen Katiyar also toured the Army Public School (APS) in Beas, Kapurthala. He was briefed on the school’s development projects and encouraged the staff to continue focusing on both academic excellence and holistic development of students. Established in 1995 by the late Gen BC Joshi, APS Beas caters primarily to children of serving personnel, contributing to a supportive and stable environment for military families. Studies suggest that access to quality education can significantly enhance morale and retention within the armed forces community.

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Lt Gen Katiyar, who assumed command of the Western Command in July 2023, has over 37 years of experience in key operational areas including Siachen and the Line of Actual Control. His visit reflects the Army’s dual focus on operational strength and the welfare of personnel and their families, reinforcing long-term defense readiness and institutional support.

Government Probing Sabotage Possibility in Air India AI 171 Tragedy

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Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol has confirmed that sabotage is among the possibilities being investigated in the Air India flight AI 171 crash, which claimed 274 lives earlier this month. Speaking at the Pune chapter of the Emerging Business Conclave, the minister stated that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is conducting a full-scale probe into the incident, considering every potential cause.

The Air India Dreamliner Boeing 787-8, bound for London, crashed on June 12 shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft lost altitude and crashed into the staff housing complex of BJ Medical College, triggering a massive fire. Only one person from the 242 passengers and crew survived. Nine individuals on the ground also lost their lives.

“The AAIB is examining all angles, including possible sabotage. The CCTV footage is being scrutinized, and multiple agencies are involved in the process,” said Mr Mohol during his conversation with NDTV. He emphasized the need for a thorough and independent investigation, calling the crash an extremely rare occurrence.

Mr Mohol addressed concerns over the handling of the aircraft’s black box, confirming it remains securely in AAIB custody and will not be sent abroad for analysis. The black box, which includes both the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR), is critical to understanding what went wrong during the final moments of the flight.

According to officials, the pilot had issued a Mayday distress signal moments after takeoff, indicating a full-scale emergency. There is growing speculation that a dual engine failure may have caused the crash, a scenario aviation experts consider exceptionally rare.

“The investigation will reveal whether it was due to an engine issue, a fuel problem, or something else. It is premature to make conclusions, but the CVR will offer clarity,” the minister said, adding that the final investigation report is expected within three months.

Responding to safety concerns among passengers following the crash, Mr Mohol assured that all 33 Dreamliner aircraft in Air India’s fleet have undergone thorough inspections on orders from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), with no issues detected.

In addition to addressing the crash, Mr Mohol also discussed broader aviation issues, including over 400 technical vacancies in the DGCA, concerns around pilot working hours, and the need to make air travel more affordable. He noted that the ministry is expanding low-cost food options at airports through Udaan Yatri Cafes, offering essentials like tea and snacks at affordable prices.

The tragic crash has intensified calls for stronger aviation oversight and greater transparency in accident investigations, as authorities work to determine the true cause behind one of India’s deadliest air disasters.

Pakistan Alleges Indian Role in Suicide Bombing Despite Taliban Group Claiming Responsibility

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In the aftermath of a devastating suicide bombing that killed at least 16 Pakistani soldiers in North Waziristan, the Pakistan Army has accused India of orchestrating the attack—despite the fact that a Taliban-affiliated group has already claimed responsibility. The allegation, made without evidence, has drawn scrutiny from analysts and is being viewed as part of Pakistan’s recurring pattern of externalizing internal security failures.

The bombing took place in the Khaddi area near the Afghan border, a region long troubled by militancy. A vehicle-borne suicide attacker targeted a military convoy, resulting in heavy casualties and widespread destruction. The Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, an offshoot of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), publicly claimed responsibility shortly after the attack, citing it as part of its ongoing campaign against the Pakistani state.

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Nevertheless, Pakistan’s military leadership blamed Indian intelligence for the incident, labeling it a covert act meant to destabilize the region. No supporting evidence was provided, and India has not responded officially. Independent observers have noted that such claims are not uncommon in the context of India-Pakistan relations, especially following high-profile attacks.

Security experts have emphasized that the Hafiz Gul Bahadur faction has a documented history of carrying out similar attacks in Pakistan’s tribal belt, especially since the Taliban’s resurgence in Afghanistan. Analysts say Islamabad’s attempt to shift blame onto India may be aimed at deflecting attention from domestic intelligence and policy failures, especially as its longstanding strategy of engaging certain militant groups for strategic leverage appears to be unraveling.

The attack has led to heightened security measures in North Waziristan, with curfews imposed and military operations underway. Local hospitals remain overwhelmed with wounded personnel and civilians.

International reactions remain measured, with calls for restraint and transparency. The United Nations and other global actors are closely watching the situation amid fears of renewed diplomatic hostility between India and Pakistan. The false narrative being promoted, according to regional analysts, risks complicating efforts to address the growing threat of militancy rooted within Pakistan’s own borders.

Pakistani Defence Attaché Walks Out of Indonesian Air Force Seminar Over Presentation on Airbase Damage

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A recent seminar organized by the Indonesian Air Force University drew attention after the Pakistani Defence Attaché refused to attend, objecting to the presentation of satellite imagery showing damage to Pakistan Air Force bases. The event, part of a two-day seminar series titled “International Seminar: Analysis of the Pakistan–India Air Battle and Indonesia’s Anticipatory Strategies from the Perspective of Air Power,” was aimed at analyzing the May 2025 air conflict between India and Pakistan and examining broader implications for regional air power.

Also Read: Indonesian Air Force Seminar Sheds Light on Pakistan’s Losses in Operation Sindoor

According to sources familiar with the seminar proceedings, the Indian Defence Attaché to Indonesia participated in the discussions and shared India’s perspective on the conflict, codenamed Operation Sindoor. The materials presented included high-resolution imagery and analysis highlighting structural damage to multiple Pakistani air installations, reportedly inflicted during precision strikes by the Indian Air Force.

The Pakistani side raised strong objections to the inclusion of these visuals in the seminar brochure and slide presentations. Citing sensitivity around operational military data and the public framing of national setbacks, the Pakistani Defence Attaché opted not to participate. The absence was noted during the sessions and sparked conversation among participants about the complexities of hosting open military discussions involving rival nations.

The incident has underscored the diplomatic tightrope involved in analyzing active or recent conflicts in academic and defense forums. While the seminar aimed to foster strategic learning, the Pakistani delegation’s walkout reflected the limits of such discourse when perceived national image or security is at stake.

The Indonesian Air Force’s decision to host the seminar reflects its growing interest in studying real-world air warfare scenarios and adapting its own defense strategies accordingly. However, the reaction from Pakistan has highlighted the challenges in balancing transparency, analysis, and diplomatic sensitivity in international military discussions.

Observers note that while the seminar achieved its educational objectives, it also exposed the friction that can emerge when military realities are openly debated on international platforms.

Indonesian Air Force Seminar Sheds Light on Pakistan’s Losses in Operation Sindoor

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The Indonesian Air Force recently organized two in-depth seminars at its Air Force University, focusing on the May 2025 India-Pakistan aerial conflict and its strategic implications. Titled “International Seminar: Analysis of the Pakistan–India Air Battle and Indonesia’s Anticipatory Strategies from the Perspective of Air Power,” the sessions offered detailed insights into the short yet impactful air war that erupted between the two nations earlier this year.

Also Read: Pakistani Defence Attaché Walks Out of Indonesian Air Force Seminar Over Presentation on Airbase Damage

The seminars examined operational details and strategic lessons from the conflict. Presenters outlined the extent of damage sustained by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), supported by slides and analysis. According to the data presented, the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully targeted and destroyed six Pakistani fighter jets, two Saab-2000 Erieye airborne warning aircraft, and one C-130 transport aircraft. Additional damage to key airbases was also highlighted, reinforcing the view that India gained the upper hand in the aerial domain.

Official Indian representation at the seminar was provided by Captain Shiv Kumar, Defence Attaché at the Indian Embassy in Jakarta. He participated in discussions on air power and defense strategy, offering India’s perspective on the conflict. The Pakistani Defence Attaché, however, declined to participate, objecting to the inclusion of satellite imagery showing damage to Pakistani military installations in the event’s official brochure and presentation materials.

The decision to study the India-Pakistan air battle in an academic and defense setting reflects Indonesia’s growing interest in air power trends and its own need for anticipatory strategies. The focus extended beyond South Asia, touching on the importance of early warning systems and the evolving role of drones, surveillance platforms, and regional partnerships.

The outcome of the seminar indicated a shift in the perceived balance of air power in South Asia, particularly with the reported loss of Pakistan’s airborne early warning assets. These losses were seen as weakening the country’s real-time situational awareness and broader air defense capabilities. Analysts at the event discussed the implications of such setbacks for Pakistan and the need for enhanced resilience in future aerial engagements.

The Indonesian initiative also prompted wider discussion on the difficulty of maintaining neutrality in international defense forums, especially when operational data from ongoing or recent conflicts is involved. Still, the sessions were noted for their analytical depth and relevance to air force modernization efforts across Southeast Asia.

As air power continues to play a central role in regional security, the Indonesian Air Force’s engagement with this topic signals an intention to remain informed and prepared amid a changing geopolitical environment.

Thai Air Force Lauds India’s Air Strikes on PAF Bases, Cites Major Pakistan Air Defence Gaps

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The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has praised the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) execution of precision strikes during the May 2025 conflict with Pakistan, highlighting the operation as a significant benchmark in modern air warfare. Speaking at a recent RTAF-led strategic conference in Bangkok, Deputy Chief of Air Staff (Intelligence) Air Marshal Sommai Leelitham emphasized the failure of Pakistan’s air defense systems and commended India’s tactical evolution and operational precision.

The conflict, triggered by a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 26 civilians, escalated after India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7. The operation involved coordinated missile and air strikes on nine high-value targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, including militant infrastructure belonging to groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

In a move not seen since the 1971 war, India struck targets across the international border using its frontline Rafale jets, BrahMos cruise missiles, and Israeli-origin loitering munitions. On May 8 and 9, the IAF followed up by targeting Pakistani air defense assets, including radars and command-and-control centers around Lahore and other key regions. Indian Sukhoi Su-30 MKIs, armed with precision munitions, carried out deep strikes that caused substantial damage to PAF installations.

Despite claims by Pakistan of having downed Indian aircraft, Indian forces sustained minimal losses. This was attributed to real-time tactical shifts, improved inter-service coordination, and effective use of satellite surveillance. Indian officials released post-strike satellite images showing significant destruction at targeted locations, further validating mission success.

Air Marshal Leelitham remarked that the Indian Air Force’s ability to conduct multiple successful sorties without any confirmed aircraft loss underscored a “clear collapse” of Pakistan’s integrated air defence and a commendable shift in India’s air combat doctrine.

The four-day conflict ended with a ceasefire on May 10, after Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations reportedly reached out to his Indian counterpart requesting a cessation of hostilities. Analysts worldwide acknowledged India’s operational superiority and strategic restraint during the limited conflict.

Operation Sindoor has since emerged as a focal point for military think tanks and air forces across Asia. The Thai Air Force’s public recognition of India’s success reflects the growing influence of Indian military doctrine and the changing dynamics of regional deterrence.

This conflict marks a transformative moment for the Indian Air Force, setting a new precedent for cross-border precision engagement while reinforcing India’s policy of calibrated but firm response to terrorism.

Army Honours Rajouri and Poonch Civilians for Key Role in Operation Sindoor

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In a heartfelt tribute to community spirit and resilience, the Indian Army’s Ace of Spades Division held a felicitation ceremony on Friday in Rajouri to honour civilians who played a crucial role during Operation Sindoor. Twenty-five individuals from Rajouri and Poonch districts were recognised for their exceptional support in casualty evacuation, rescue missions, and humanitarian relief during the high-intensity counter-terror operation.

The event was presided over by Major General Kaushik Mukherji, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Ace of Spades Division. It was attended by senior officials from the civil administration, healthcare professionals, media representatives, military veterans, and families of those who contributed during the operation.

The ceremony began with a powerful video montage showcasing the synergy between the armed forces and local residents in ensuring the success of Operation Sindoor. A solemn two-minute silence was observed in honour of those who laid down their lives, including Additional Deputy Commissioner of Rajouri, Raj Kumar Thapa.

Maj Gen Mukherji addressed the gathering, stating, “Operation Sindoor was not just a military campaign, but a strong national statement that India will protect its people and respond to threats with precision and resolve.” He praised the courage and commitment of civilians who stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the Army, often at personal risk, to provide critical support during the crisis.

He also acknowledged their role in upholding social unity and preventing fear from weakening the societal fabric. “Your contribution ensured that our response to terror was not just forceful, but also humane,” he said.

The felicitation comes as part of the Army’s broader effort to recognise the unsung heroes whose support is often vital to mission success. Operation Sindoor, launched in May 2025 following a major terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, targeted terror infrastructure across the border and was marked by precise coordination and civil-military cooperation.

The event underscored the strength of unity between the armed forces and local communities in safeguarding national interests and restoring peace in conflict-affected regions.

UP Police Launch Probe Into Cop’s Assault on Lt Col Anand Prakash Suman

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The Uttar Pradesh Police have launched an investigation into a serious allegation involving a police sub-inspector allegedly assaulting a serving Indian Army officer in Lucknow. The incident, which reportedly took place on June 22 near the PGI police station area, has sparked concern and condemnation from Army authorities.

According to the complaint filed by Lieutenant Colonel Anand Prakash Suman—currently posted at the NCC Directorate Bihar & Jharkhand in Patna—the altercation occurred at the Telibagh intersection. The officer alleged that a policeman, driving on the wrong side of the road, began verbally abusing him. When Lt Col Suman rolled down his car window, the officer claims the policeman slapped him without provocation.

An FIR was immediately registered under sections 281, 125, 115, and 352 of the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita. CCTV footage from the area has also been examined as part of the ongoing investigation.

In a strong show of support, the Surya Command of the Indian Army issued a public statement on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, stressing that the misconduct was being taken “with utmost seriousness.” The statement confirmed that senior Army officials, including Major General Salil Seth, General Officer Commanding of the Madhya Uttar Pradesh Sub Area, along with the Station Commander, met with Lucknow Police Commissioner Amrendra K Sengar to ensure a fair and swift investigation.

“The Indian Army stands resolutely with its personnel and expects prompt and exemplary action,” the Surya Command stated.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Rishabh Runwal also confirmed that the case is being investigated on a priority basis. “All aspects of the incident are being looked into, and further action will be taken based on the investigation findings,” he told PTI.

The incident comes amid growing concerns over civil-military relations and has prompted calls for accountability and transparency in the conduct of law enforcement officials.

Operation Sindoor Cup: Army XI vs Parliament XI to Honor Anti-Terror Victory

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The trophy for the highly anticipated Operation Sindoor Cup was officially unveiled today in Kanpur, setting the stage for a symbolic cricket match between Army XI and Parliament XI scheduled for June 29 at the iconic Green Park Stadium. The event is being held to honor the Indian Armed Forces’ decisive victory in Operation Sindoor, a targeted military campaign against Pakistan-backed terror networks in May 2025.

The cricket match, held in the spirit of national pride and solidarity, aims to celebrate India’s military success and boost public morale in the aftermath of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Operation Sindoor, launched in response, saw precise air and ground strikes across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, dismantling major terror camps and eliminating over 100 militants affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.

The specially designed trophy unveiled today is rich in symbolism. It features a cricket bat, a BrahMos missile, and a Rafale fighter jet—representing the synergy of sport, military precision, and national strength. The design reflects India’s multifaceted defense capabilities and its unifying national spirit.

Brigadier Samrul Hassan will lead the Army XI team, which includes serving army officers, police personnel, and members of the district administration. The Parliament XI will be captained by Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwari and will feature a lineup of MPs and state legislators from across party lines.

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The match is expected to draw large crowds and serve as a morale booster, fostering unity between the armed forces and the civilian leadership. Organizers say the event goes beyond sport—it’s a tribute to the courage of India’s security forces and a reminder of the nation’s resolve in the face of terrorism.

Security arrangements around Green Park Stadium have been intensified, and cultural programs are planned to accompany the event, making it a day of patriotic celebration and community engagement.

Indian Army Hosts Seminar on Indo-Tibetan Heritage and Border Strategy in Shimla

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The Indian Army’s Central Command organized a landmark seminar titled “Interwoven Roots: Shared Indo-Tibetan Heritage” today at DANFE Hall in Shimla, focusing on the deep-rooted historical and strategic connections between India and Tibet. Held at the Army Training Command headquarters, the day-long event brought together senior military officials, diplomats, and scholars to explore how cultural heritage can inform contemporary border security and diplomacy.

Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Central Command, delivered the keynote address. A seasoned officer who previously commanded the Fire & Fury Corps in Ladakh, Lt Gen Sengupta emphasized that Indo-Tibetan ties are not just cultural but also strategic, shaping current policies in border management and regional stability. He underlined the importance of revisiting historical connections to guide future actions in sensitive frontier regions.

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The seminar included sessions on civilizational ties, border infrastructure, and community engagement, all enriched by recent pre-seminar visits to Shipki La, Lepcha, Tabo, and Kaza. These visits coincided with new border tourism initiatives approved by the government on May 20, 2025, and the greenlighting of key infrastructure projects like the Wangtu–Atargu–Mud–Bhaba road. The road is expected to cut travel time between Shimla and Kaza by nearly 100 kilometers, facilitating both economic activity and improved military mobility.

Lt Gen DG Misra, GOC of Uttar Bharat Area, delivered the closing remarks, expressing optimism about integrating cultural preservation with national security. Renowned Tibetologist Claude Arpi also addressed the gathering, urging greater attention to civilizational values in India’s Himalayan policy and suggesting concrete measures for cultural diplomacy.

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Among the key recommendations discussed were the revival of Indo-Tibetan cultural exchanges, archaeological research in trans-Himalayan areas, digitization of historical archives, promotion of endangered Himalayan dialects, and improving All India Radio coverage in border regions. Proposals were also made to enhance access to traditional pilgrimage routes like the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

The seminar reflects the Indian Army’s evolving approach to national security—one that blends military preparedness with historical awareness and community engagement. By focusing on shared heritage and infrastructure development, the event underscored India’s strategic commitment to securing its Himalayan frontiers while strengthening regional harmony.