Assistant Commandant Abhishek Rathore of Basic Training Centre (BTC) Bhanu has brought pride to the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) by excelling at the prestigious NSG Commando Conversion Course. He was honored with the titles of Overall Best Commando and Best Firer, reflecting his exceptional skills and dedication.
This achievement marks a proud moment for the ITBP, known as the Himveers, as it highlights the elite training and high standards upheld by its personnel.
The recognition of Assistant Commandant Rathore not only underscores his individual excellence but also showcases the rigorous preparation and professionalism instilled within the force.
The accomplishment serves as an inspiration to all members of the ITBP and reiterates the force’s commitment to producing world-class commandos capable of handling the most challenging scenarios with precision and efficiency.
Congratulations to Assistant Commandant Abhishek Rathore for this outstanding achievement and for setting a benchmark of excellence for his peers.
Two individuals were arrested on Monday following an incident at an NCC camp in Thrikkakara, near Kochi, where protesters stormed the camp and assaulted a senior officer after a food poisoning episode. The event occurred on the night of December 23, during a camp organized by the 21 Kerala Battalion of the NCC, involving 107 participants from schools and colleges in Kerala’s Ernakulam district.
The protest erupted after several students fell ill due to food poisoning at the camp, leading to concerns among parents and participants. Local leaders from various political parties, including the CPI(M) and BJP, joined the demonstration, adding momentum to the unrest.
Amid the protest, a group of agitators stormed into the camp and assaulted Lieutenant Colonel Karnail Singh, the administrative officer of the NCC unit. The Thrikkakara police have identified seven accused in the case. Two individuals, Nishad and Navas, both parents of affected students, were arrested and charged with manhandling the officer and obstructing him from performing his duties.
Other accused include Bhagyalakshmi, an SFI leader, and Pramod, a BJP councillor at Kalamassery municipality. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend the remaining individuals involved in the incident.
The 10-day NCC camp, which began on December 21, was suspended following the food poisoning incident. Inspector A. K. Sudheer of Thrikkakara police stated that the arrested individuals face serious charges for their actions against the Lieutenant Colonel.
This unfortunate episode highlights the need for stricter oversight to ensure the safety and security of such camps while maintaining the decorum and respect for officers in charge.
A monumental statue of Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was inaugurated on the serene banks of Pangong Tso in Ladakh at an awe-inspiring altitude of 14,300 feet. The statue stands as a towering tribute to the legendary ruler, embodying his unparalleled valour, visionary leadership, and commitment to justice.
The inauguration was graced by Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla, SC**, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Fire and Fury Corps, and the Colonel of The Maratha Light Infantry. The event highlighted the enduring legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, whose life continues to inspire the nation and its armed forces.
The statue serves as a symbol of courage and resilience, reflecting the indomitable spirit of the Maratha warrior king. Placed amidst the breathtaking landscape of Pangong Tso, the installation also signifies the unity and cultural pride of India, even in the remotest and most challenging regions.
The event not only celebrated the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj but also reinforced the spirit of patriotism and pride that resonates with every Indian. His timeless ideals of justice, strategy, and governance continue to be a guiding light for generations.
Lt Gen Yash Ahlawat, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Brahmastra Corps, visited the Ranchi Military Station to assess the operational preparedness of its units and formations. The visit reflected a deep commitment to maintaining peak efficiency and readiness within the Indian Army’s ranks.
The General Officer meticulously reviewed the preparedness of the stationed units, ensuring that all operational protocols are in place to tackle any emerging challenges. His visit not only underscored the importance of vigilance but also highlighted the continuous efforts of the Indian Army in adapting to dynamic scenarios with precision and efficiency.
During his interaction with personnel, Lt Gen Ahlawat commended all ranks for their exceptional dedication, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to their duties. His words of encouragement resonated deeply, reinforcing the sense of purpose and excellence that defines the ethos of the Indian Army.
Such visits are not mere routines but an inspiring reminder of how each component of a larger system contributes to the seamless functioning of a robust defense mechanism. It showcases the harmony between leadership and the ranks, which together weave the intricate fabric of readiness and national security. This interplay of strategic oversight and ground-level commitment forms the backbone of the Indian Army’s enduring strength.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh lauded the outstanding contributions of the Indian Army’s training institutions during his visit to Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, on December 29, 2024. This significant visit included stops at the Army War College (AWC), Infantry School, and Military College of Telecommunication & Engineering (MCTE), three premier institutions shaping the strategic and operational expertise of Indian Army personnel. Accompanying him were Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and other senior Army officers.
During the visit, the Raksha Mantri was briefed by the Officiating Commandant on the establishment of an Advanced Incubation and Research Centre and the signing of various Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at facilitating the adoption of cutting-edge technologies within the Army. He also toured the Army Marksmanship Unit, where he observed the Army’s significant contribution to national sports and interacted with elite shooters.
Shri Rajnath Singh explored the Infantry Museum, gaining insights into the history of the Infantry and the advancements in modernized equipment that are bolstering the Infantry’s operational capabilities. Addressing the ranks of the three institutions, he commended the courage, dedication, and vigilance of Indian Army personnel in safeguarding the nation’s borders. “Your dedication and devotion to duty inspire all of us. It is due to your hard work and commitment that our borders are increasingly secure and strong,” he said.
The Raksha Mantri emphasized the need for constant vigilance in light of evolving geopolitical challenges, urging the Armed Forces to remain alert and prepared to counter any threats effectively. He also highlighted the critical role of the Armed Forces in achieving the vision of a developed and self-reliant India by 2047, as envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. “You are the protectors of our borders and the forerunners in nation-building. I am confident that you will continue to secure our nation with courage and dedication, contributing to the realization of Viksit Bharat by 2047,” he added.
Earlier, Shri Rajnath Singh visited Bhim Janm Bhoomi, the birthplace of Dr. BR Ambedkar, where he paid homage to the Bharat Ratna and architect of the Indian Constitution. Describing Dr. Ambedkar as a symbol of selfless service, he lauded his lifelong dedication to social equality and empowerment.
This visit underscored the critical role of the Indian Army’s training institutions in preparing personnel for future challenges while reaffirming the government’s commitment to fostering a secure and self-reliant nation.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), paid a visit to the prestigious Army Marksmanship Unit (AMU) in Mhow, underscoring the Indian Army’s commitment to fostering excellence in sports and nurturing world-class shooters.
During his visit, the COAS inspected the state-of-the-art training infrastructure at AMU, which has been instrumental in producing elite shooters who have represented the nation on global platforms.
He was also briefed on the progress of trials being conducted for new weapons slated for induction into the Indian Army, reflecting the Army’s dedication to modernization and operational readiness.
General Dwivedi took the opportunity to interact with the shooters undergoing training at the unit, offering words of encouragement and motivation.
He exhorted them to strive for excellence in their respective disciplines, emphasizing the importance of their contributions to both the Indian Army and the nation’s sporting achievements.
The Indian Army has consistently supported sports as a means of discipline and excellence, with units like AMU playing a pivotal role in preparing athletes who bring laurels to the country on the global stage.
This visit further solidifies the Army’s resolve to nurture talent and uphold the highest standards of performance in both defense and sports.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh created history by becoming the first Defence Minister in 24 years to visit Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. The landmark visit on Sunday highlighted the Indian Army’s exceptional training standards and its crucial role in national security.
Singh visited three premier Army training institutes: the Army War College (AWC), Infantry School, and Military College of Telecommunication and Engineering (MCTE). Accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and other senior officers, Singh reviewed the cutting-edge training facilities and lauded the institutes for shaping military strategies and sharpening warfare skills.
A key highlight of the visit was a briefing by the Officiating Commandant on the establishment of an Advanced Incubation and Research Centre and the signing of various Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enabling technological absorption and transformation. Singh also visited the Army Marksmanship Unit, acknowledging its contribution to national sports, and the Infantry Museum, where he was briefed on the history of the Infantry and the modernization of its equipment.
Addressing Army personnel, Singh commended their unwavering courage and vigilance in safeguarding the nation’s borders. “Your dedication and devotion to duty are an inspiration to all of us. It is due to your hard work and commitment that our country and its borders are becoming increasingly secure and strong,” he said. Singh emphasized the need for constant alertness in light of evolving geopolitical challenges and called for readiness to counter any threats.
In his remarks, Singh also highlighted the broader vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government to make India a developed and self-reliant nation by 2047. He underscored the pivotal role of the Armed Forces in achieving this goal, calling them “protectors of our borders and forerunners in nation-building.”
Earlier in the day, Singh visited Bhim Janm Bhoomi, the birthplace of Dr. BR Ambedkar, and paid homage to the Bharat Ratna. He described Dr. Ambedkar as a symbol of selfless service, social equality, and empowerment, whose contributions to the nation remain unparalleled.
This visit not only reinforced the Defence Minister’s support for the Indian Army’s modernization and training efforts but also symbolized the government’s commitment to the welfare and professional excellence of its armed forces.
As part of Navy Day 2024 outreach activities, INS Darshak, a hydrographic survey vessel of the Indian Navy, hosted 180 cadets from the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, on December 28.
The visit aimed to provide the cadets with a first-hand experience of life aboard a naval warship and showcase the technological advancements employed by the Indian Navy.
During the visit, the cadets were introduced to the advanced surveying equipment and systems fitted on INS Darshak, highlighting the critical role of hydrographic survey vessels in ensuring safe navigation and supporting maritime operations.
The cadets also had the opportunity to interact with the ship’s crew, gaining insights into their responsibilities and the operational environment aboard a naval vessel.
This outreach initiative is a testament to the Indian Navy’s efforts to inspire young military professionals, foster inter-service collaboration, and deepen their understanding of naval operations.
Such activities not only enhance mutual respect and synergy between the Army and Navy but also emphasize the significance of joint efforts in securing the nation’s maritime and territorial integrity.
Under the banner of #OnPathToTransformation and #CapabilityDevelopment, the Vajra Corps recently conducted a high-intensity joint exercise involving Infantry units and Army Aviation helicopters. The exercise focused on critical special operations, including Small Team Insertion and Extraction, Hostage Rescue, and Casualty Evacuation, aimed at refining combat preparedness and operational efficiency.
The meticulously planned drill showcased seamless coordination between ground forces and aerial support, emphasizing precision and teamwork essential for mission success. By integrating the capabilities of Infantry and Army Aviation, the exercise validated existing protocols and introduced enhancements to further elevate operational readiness.
The training event not only honed the combat skills of participating units but also strengthened inter-arm collaboration, fostering a deeper synergy and cohesiveness between different elements of the force. Such initiatives are pivotal in preparing for modern battlefield scenarios, where joint operations are increasingly critical to achieving objectives effectively.
Through exercises like this, Vajra Corps continues to exemplify its commitment to transformation and innovation, ensuring the Indian Army remains a formidable and adaptive force ready to meet any challenge.
In the midst of unrest and uncertainty in his home state of Manipur, one soldier’s story of courage and tenacity has become a beacon of hope. Sepoy Solomon of the 15 ASSAM Regiment lost nearly everything to the turmoil that has gripped the region.
Where many might have succumbed to despair, Solomon chose a different path—he channelled his pain, transformed his struggles into fuel for success, and cleared the prestigious Army Cadet College (ACC) exam.
For any soldier, the ACC exam is a defining milestone. It opens the door to a leadership role as an officer in the Indian Army, turning hardships into stepping stones toward a brighter future. Solomon’s remarkable achievement is not just about personal victory; it also symbolizes the power of resilience. Despite witnessing firsthand the chaos in Manipur, he persevered and stayed committed to his goals.
Behind this triumph is a story of unwavering determination. Each day Solomon spent preparing for the exam was a day he chose to believe in the possibility of a better tomorrow. His commitment to serving the nation, no matter the challenges, underscores a spirit that is both humble and unbreakable. It reminds us that life’s greatest tests often come from the darkest of times—and that true strength is found in how we rise to meet them.
Solomon’s journey also serves as a powerful reminder for all of us: when our circumstances seem overwhelming, we still hold the power to shape our destiny through courage, discipline, and hard work. His resilience shows that the climb may be steep, but every step forward paves the way for new beginnings.
As Solomon now stands on the path to becoming an officer in the Indian Army, his story continues to inspire countless others to look beyond immediate hardships and reach for their dreams. In a world that often focuses on setbacks, Solomon’s example shines brightly, proving that perseverance and hope can triumph over even the most daunting challenges.
May we all learn from his story: it is not the adversity itself that defines us, but how we respond to it. Let Solomon’s example serve as motivation to keep moving forward, transform adversity into strength, and never lose sight of our highest aspirations.
