The Kharga Air Defence (AD) Brigade conducted a Counter-Drone Capability exercise, showcasing its ability to neutralize emerging aerial threats. This demonstration highlighted the formation’s commitment to integrating advanced technologies with traditional Air Defence Gun Systems to address modern warfare challenges effectively.
Acknowledgment of Excellence
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Kharga Corps complimented the brigade for exhibiting high standards of professional competence. He praised their efforts in adapting to evolving technologies, emphasizing the importance of staying ahead in the rapidly changing battlefield environment.
Focus on Technological Integration
The exercise underscored:
Seamless integration of cutting-edge technology with existing AD systems to enhance detection and engagement capabilities.
The brigade’s readiness to tackle drone-based threats, which have become a critical aspect of modern warfare.
Strengthening Air Defence Preparedness
This initiative reflects the Kharga Corps’ focus on maintaining operational readiness and leveraging innovation to ensure the formation remains a strong and capable component of the Indian Army’s air defense network.
Indian Army officers enjoy one of the country’s best retirement benefit programs in the public sector. Their pension benefits depend on rank, service years, and retirement type.
Every serving officer and aspirant should know these entitlements. The rank-based pension structure will give military personnel financial security after dedicating their lives to serve the nation.
Officers can choose from several pension options. These include service pension, disability pension, and benefits under the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme. This piece gets into pension calculations, qualification requirements, and the extra benefits available to ex-servicemen.
You’ll learn about the latest changes in armed forces pension policies, provisions for family pensions, and retirement perks that support officers through their golden years.
Here’s the rank-wise table showing the likely estimated increase in service pension under OROP w.e.f. July 01, 2019:
Rank
Pension as on 01.01.2016 (in Rs)
Revised Pension w.e.f. 01.07.2019 (in Rs)
Likely Arrears from 01.07.2019 to 30.06.2022 (in Rs)
Sepoy
17,699
19,726
87,000
Naik
18,427
21,101
1,14,000
Havildar
20,066
21,782
70,000
Nb Subedar
24,232
26,800
1,08,000
Sub Major
33,526
37,600
1,75,000
Major
61,205
68,550
3,05,000
Lt. Colonel
84,330
95,400
4,55,000
Colonel
92,855
1,03,700
4,42,000
Brigadier
96,555
1,08,800
5,05,000
Maj. Gen.
99,621
1,09,100
3,90,000
Lt. Gen.
1,01,515
1,12,050
4,32,000
Types of Pensions for Army Officers
Indian Armed Forces officers can choose from multiple pension schemes that ensure their financial security after retirement. These schemes are a great way to get protection based on the officer’s service conditions and retirement circumstances.
Service Pension
The armed forces pension system rests on service pension as its foundation. Officers need to serve for at least 20 years to become eligible. Personnel Below Officer Rank (PBOR) qualify after 15 years of service. The system calculates pension benefits at 50% of either the last drawn emoluments or the average earnings from the previous 10 months. Pensioners receive whichever amount proves more beneficial. The pension scheme guarantees a minimum monthly payment of ₹9,000.
Disability Pension
Military officers who leave service due to service-related disabilities receive significant support through disability pension. This pension has two main parts:
Service Element: Equal to 50% of last drawn emoluments
Disability Element: Up to 30% of last drawn emoluments for 100% disability. The percentage reduces proportionally for lower disability levels
Officers with disability below 20% cannot claim the disability element. The Kerala High Court’s ruling confirms that disability pension is not a privilege but eligible military personnel’s right.
War Injury Pension
War injury pension provides better benefits than regular disability pension. The pension calculation varies for cases with 100% disability:
Invalid cases get pension matching their last drawn emoluments
Discharge cases receive 60% of their last drawn emoluments Disability percentage directly affects the final pension amount.
Invalid Pension
Invalid pension is now more available through recent policy updates. Officers who left service due to Neither Attributable to Nor Aggravated (NANA) disabilities qualify for pension whatever their service duration. This applies to officers who served on or after January 4, 2019. The pension aims to support officers who become permanently unable to work in military service and civil jobs.
Calculation of Army Officer Pensions
Military pension calculations depend on several key factors that affect the final amount. The Indian government’s 50-year old system uses specific parameters and formulas to calculate army officer’s pensions.
What Determines Your Army Pension Amount
Your Indian army rank wise pension calculation depends on these important factors:
Your last drawn emoluments
How many years of qualifying service you completed
The rank you held when retiring
Whether you retired through superannuation or took premature retirement
What the Pay Commission recommended
Percentage of last drawn salary
A standardized formula helps calculate the pension amount. The formula takes into account two different calculations. The pension equals 50% of either the last drawn emoluments or the average emoluments from the final 10 months, whichever is higher. Retired personnel’s financial security remains protected with a minimum guaranteed pension of ₹9,000 per month.
Minimum qualifying service
The pension system for armed forces has specific service requirements that members must meet:
Commissioned Officers: 20 years minimum service
Personnel Below Officer Rank: 15 years minimum service
Invalid pension cases: No minimum service requirement (effective from January 2019)
How rank affects pension
Military rank plays a key role in pension calculations through the Pay Commission’s well-laid-out pay scales. Senior ranks receive larger pensions naturally because of:
Higher pay scales at senior levels
Special allowances linked to appointments
Extra benefits that come with rank
Benefits specific to each service
The Pay Commission updates these scales periodically, which affects pension amounts for ranks of all types. The One Rank One Pension scheme ensures officers get equal pension when they have the same rank and service length, whatever their retirement date. This creates fairness among veterans with similar service records.
Additional Benefits and Allowances
Retired army officers receive much more than a simple pension. A detailed package of benefits improves their life after retirement. These benefits provide significant support to their family members in aspects of all types in daily life.
Family Pension
The armed forces pension system will give a safety net to families of deceased personnel through a well-laid-out family pension scheme. The deceased personnel’s spouse receives 30% of the last drawn emoluments. The minimum guaranteed amount stands at ₹9,000 per month. Military personnel’s families become eligible for liberalized family pension when death occurs during military operations or counter-insurgency activities. This special pension equals 100% of the last drawn emoluments.
Medical Benefits
The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) provides complete healthcare coverage to veterans and their dependents. This valuable scheme includes:
Treatment services for both inpatients and outpatients at military hospitals and partner civilian facilities
Expert specialist consultations and diagnostic services at your convenience
Full support during medical emergencies
Easy access to polyclinics and pharmacies across the country
Canteen Facilities
Veterans enjoy most important cost savings through the Canteen Stores Department’s (CSD) extensive retail network. They have access to seven essential product categories:
Toiletries and personal care
Household items
General use products
Watches and stationery
Beverages and spirits
Food and medicinal items
Automobiles and white goods
Resettlement Opportunities
The Directorate General Resettlement (DGR) makes the transition to civilian life easier through several initiatives. Officers can join specialized resettlement courses with a 60% fee exemption. JCOs/ORs get even better benefits with complete fee exemption. Government sectors have set aside specific reservation quotas across different positions:
10% in Central Armed Police Forces
14.5% in Public Sector Enterprise Group ‘C’ posts
24.5% in Group ‘D’ positions
The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas supports veterans with an 8% quota for LPG distributorship and fuel retail outlets. This helps them start their own businesses. On top of that, security agency schemes serve as excellent interim employment options during their transition period.
Recent Changes and OROP Implementation
The implementation of One Rank One Pension (OROP) stands as a key milestone in the rise of military pension reforms in India. The Ministry of Defense has made detailed changes and ensures fair pension distribution for retired service personnel of every rank.
One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme
Armed forces personnel who retire at the same rank with equal service years receive uniform pension payments, whatever their retirement date. This pension scheme fixes the old differences in pension amounts between officers who retired at different times. The government’s 2022 Union Budget has set aside ₹1.19 lakh crores for pension payments, which shows its steadfast dedication to the veterans’ welfare.
Revision of pension under OROP
The Ministry of Defense has announced the most important revisions that will benefit pensioners starting July 1, 2024. These changes apply to:
Commissioned officers, honorary commissioned officers, and JCOs/ORs
Family pensioners of deceased service personnel
Defense Security Corps and Territorial Army personnel
Ex-State Forces veterans
Effect on different ranks
The new pension structure maintains a rank-based hierarchy that ensures fair compensation. To cite an instance, a Colonel’s monthly pension after 20 years of service amounts to ₹98,148, while a Major receives ₹49,150 for the same service duration. The system guards against inconsistencies by:
Maintaining appropriate pension gaps between higher ranks
Protecting lower qualifying service rates as needed
Keeping existing higher pensions unchanged when they exceed the new rates
Future outlook for army pensions
The government keeps improving its military pension reform policies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reinforced the country’s steadfast dedication to boost armed forces welfare through several initiatives. Pension benefits get revised every five years that helps them stay in line with current economic conditions.
A judicial commission set up by the Defence Ministry tackles implementation challenges and irregularities. This shows how actively the government works to solve pension-related problems and protect the dignity of military service. The current system offers detailed coverage and Indian army rank wise pension will give a competitive and eco-friendly framework to benefit future generations of service personnel.
India’s Army pension system is evidence of the nation’s commitment to its military personnel. The system provides multiple pension categories and complete benefits that cover retirement scenarios of all types. Service pensions are the foundation of this system. Disability and war injury pensions give significant support to personnel injured while serving their country. These core benefits work alongside medical coverage, canteen facilities, and resettlement opportunities to create a strong support system that honors army officers’ sacrifices throughout their careers.
The One Rank One Pension scheme has improved the pension framework and removed historical disparities among veterans with similar rank and service duration. The government shows its dedication through regular pension revisions and special implementation committees. This evolving system helps retired army officers get fair compensation and maintain their dignity and financial security in retirement.
In a significant step towards fostering jointness and interoperability within the Indian Armed Forces, officer cadets from Officers Training Academy (OTA) Gaya visited Air Force Station Memaura. The visit provided the cadets with an opportunity to gain valuable insights into advanced defense systems and their operational applications.
Key Highlights of the Visit
Target Identification and Engagement: The cadets were introduced to systems enabling precise target identification and destruction, highlighting the synergy between different branches of the armed forces in achieving operational objectives.
Exposure to Advanced Technology: A visit to the Radar unit offered hands-on exposure to cutting-edge defense technology, showcasing the critical role of radar systems in air surveillance and situational awareness.
Interaction with IAF Officers: Cadets engaged in discussions with Air Force officers, gaining insights into modern warfare strategies, aerospace power, and the importance of coordination between services in joint operations.
Building a Unified Force
The visit underscored the importance of cross-service exposure in shaping the next generation of military leaders. It served as a platform for the cadets to understand the pivotal role of interoperability and how advanced technologies integrate into the broader defense ecosystem.
Such initiatives contribute to the cadets’ professional development, ensuring they are better equipped to operate in a unified and technologically advanced defense environment.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), participated in the Central Air Command (CAC) Commanders’ Conference held on 18-19 December 2024, emphasizing the importance of operational preparedness and technological adaptation in enhancing the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) capabilities.
Operational Preparedness and Strategic Readiness
Engaging with the Commanders, the CAS stressed the criticality of maintaining a high state of readiness to address the challenges posed by a dynamic geopolitical environment. He underscored the IAF’s pivotal role in responding to emerging contingencies and safeguarding national interests.
Focus Areas Discussed
Operational Safety: The CAS urged Commanders to ensure a robust and safe operational flying environment, emphasizing the importance of disciplined operations.
Integration of Technology: He highlighted the need for adopting cutting-edge technologies in space, cyber, and electronic warfare domains to enhance the IAF’s strategic edge.
Evolving Challenges: The CAS called for constant adaptation to evolving threats, reinforcing the IAF’s role as a future-ready force.
Reinforcing Excellence
The discussions during the conference reflected the IAF’s commitment to achieving operational excellence and addressing contemporary challenges with a forward-looking approach. The CAS’s address served as a call to action for the Commanders to remain vigilant, innovative, and focused on delivering unmatched capabilities.
The conference concluded with a renewed resolve among the Commanders to align their efforts with the IAF’s vision of being a modern and adaptable force, prepared to tackle challenges across all domains of warfare.
Lt General Nagendra Singh, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Chetak Corps, visited the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges to witness the exceptional tactical deployment and high-intensity exercise conducted by the indomitable troops of the Gandiv Division.
Synergy Between Man and Machine
The exercise showcased seamless integration of human skill and machine precision, reflecting the division’s operational excellence in mastering the dynamics of modern warfare. The demonstrations highlighted the unit’s ability to adapt to evolving battlefield scenarios, leveraging both innovation and rigorous training.
Praising Dedication and Excellence
Lt Gen Nagendra Singh commended the troops for their:
Unwavering dedication
Exceptional skills
High levels of operational readiness
He emphasized the critical role of the human spirit in mastering the complexities of modern warfare and achieving success on the battlefield.
Focus on Innovation and Training
The GOC stressed the importance of:
Innovative thinking to stay ahead of adversaries.
Realistic training exercises that simulate actual combat scenarios.
Constant adaptation to integrate emerging technologies and refine tactics.
Commitment to Battlefield Superiority
The visit underscored the Gandiv Division’s commitment to maintaining a cutting-edge advantage in operational preparedness. It also reflected the Indian Army’s broader focus on nurturing synergy, innovation, and excellence to ensure dominance on the modern battlefield.
The exercise and Lt Gen Singh’s leadership serve as an inspiration for all ranks to uphold the highest standards of military professionalism and adaptability.
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the marks of recommended candidates for NDA 1 2024. The eagerly awaited list reveals the written exam and Service Selection Board (SSB) interview scores of successful candidates.
A total of 641 candidates were recommended by various Service Selection Boards (SSBs) across the country. These recommendations signify the candidates’ potential to serve in the Indian Armed Forces, aligning with their preferred branches.
Highest Written Exam Score: Om Sengar secured an impressive 595 marks in the NDA written exam.
Highest SSB Interview Score: Hardik Garg achieved a remarkable 524 marks in the SSB interview.
Overall Topper: Armaanpreet Singh emerged as the topper with a combined total of 998 marks (554 in written and 444 in SSB).
Top Female Candidate: Devika Kainthla topped among the recommended female candidates, scoring 859 marks in total and securing the 29th position in the overall merit list.
NDA (I) 2024 Topper’s Marks:
Name
Written Marks
SSB Marks
ARMAANPREET SINGH
554
444
HARDIK GARG
469
524
NIKHIL RAJ
536
443
UJJWAL OLA
531
447
OM SENGAR
595
382
AGRIM YADAV
441
497
VAIBHAV CHAUBEY
464
454
ABHIJAT RAWAT
450
467
MAANAV SHARMA
467
449
SUMEET NEGI
482
429
Key Insights:
Diversity in Scores: The table reflects the varied strengths of candidates, with some excelling in the written exam while others shone in the SSB interview.
Balanced Performance: Toppers like Armaanpreet Singh demonstrated balanced performance in both stages, ensuring their high rank in the merit list.
Female Representation: Devika Kainthla’s excellent performance highlights the increasing representation and success of women in the NDA.
Candidates can download the full list of marks released by UPSC from the official website. It provides a comprehensive overview of the written and SSB scores for all recommended candidates.
This data not only showcases the achievements of these individuals but also serves as an inspiration for future aspirants preparing for the prestigious NDA examination.
For those gearing up for the upcoming NDA exams, these scores set a benchmark and a source of motivation to aim for excellence in both the written exam and the SSB interview.
In a prestigious Investiture Ceremony held in New Delhi, General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), presented the CDS Unit Citations to:
Military Institute of Technology
Defence Image Processing & Analysis Centre
Specialist units of Signal Intelligence and Strategic Forces Command
These units were recognized for their outstanding performance in advancing professional excellence, enhancing jointness and integration, and contributing significantly to national security and professional military education.
Preparing for Future Wars
Addressing all ranks, General Chauhan emphasized the importance of preparing for future wars through comprehensive organisational, structural, and cultural transformations. He highlighted the need for:
Doctrinal and conceptual changes in warfighting approaches.
Development of joint structures in operations, training, communication, and logistics to foster Tri-Services integration.
Accelerating efforts with the right direction and momentum to meet unique challenges in modern warfare.
Embracing Technology and Enhancing Cyber Security
The CDS stressed the necessity of adopting cutting-edge technology and leveraging advancements in IT, cyber, space, and electronic warfare (EW). He urged the Services to:
Develop expertise in emerging domains.
Enhance cybersecurity within the nation’s defense ecosystem to safeguard critical infrastructure and operations.
A Commitment to Integration and Modernization
General Chauhan highlighted various initiatives spearheaded by the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) and HQ Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) aimed at achieving greater integration across the Armed Forces. These include creating joint structures that streamline operations, foster interoperability, and address the evolving demands of modern warfare.
A Vision for Future-Ready Forces
In his address, the CDS underlined the imperative of embracing innovation and building a defense force that is not only equipped to face future challenges but also leads in global military advancements. The ceremony reflected the Indian Armed Forces’ commitment to professionalism, adaptability, and a unified approach to national security.
The recognition of these units and the CDS’s call to action inspire all ranks to work toward synergy and excellence, ensuring that the Indian Armed Forces remain a formidable and future-ready force.
Mahendra Singh Shekhawat, a Petty Officer in MARCOS (Marine Commandos) from Junasiya village in Renwal, displayed extraordinary courage yesterday at Elephanta near the Gateway of India. While rescuing people and saving a boat, he made the ultimate sacrifice. Heartfelt tributes to the immortal martyr.
In a tragic incident near Butcher Island, off the coast of Mumbai, a Navy boat collided with the passenger vessel ‘Neelkamal’ at approximately 3:55 PM on December 17, 2024. As of 7:30 PM, 101 people have been rescued safely, while 13 fatalities have been confirmed, including 10 civilians and 3 Navy personnel.
The rescue operation, involving 11 craft and 4 helicopters, was jointly conducted by the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Mumbai Police. Two critically injured individuals are receiving treatment at the Navy hospital. Authorities have announced that the final count of missing persons will be available by tomorrow morning, as rescue efforts continue to ensure no one is left unaccounted for.
Support for Bereaved Families
The Chief Minister’s Relief Fund has announced an ex gratia payment of Rs. 5 lakhs for the families of the deceased. The government and armed forces have extended their condolences to the bereaved families, acknowledging the sacrifice of MS Shekhawat and other Navy personnel who lost their lives.
Investigation Underway
The incident is currently under investigation by both the police and the Navy to ascertain the cause of the collision and to prevent such occurrences in the future. This unfortunate event highlights the critical need for safety measures and thorough reviews of maritime operations.
Nation Mourns the Loss
The entire nation mourns the loss of these brave souls. Petty Officer MS Shekhawat’s courage and dedication to duty will be remembered as an inspiration to all. His selfless act of heroism has immortalized him in the hearts of millions.
A group of officers, including nine from Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs), has commenced specialized training on Low Intensity Conflict Operations (LICO) at the prestigious Counter Insurgency & Jungle Warfare School (CIJW) in Vairengte, Mizoram. This initiative aims to strengthen jointmanship and enhance military cooperation among participating nations.
Focus on Low Intensity Conflict Operations
The training program is designed to equip officers with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage and operate in low-intensity conflict environments. It covers a range of subjects, including:
Counter-insurgency tactics
Jungle warfare techniques
Intelligence gathering and analysis
Survival skills in hostile terrains
Civic action and psychological operations
International Participation Enhances Cooperation
The inclusion of officers from Friendly Foreign Countries underscores the CIJW School’s commitment to fostering international collaboration. Training alongside Indian officers, the foreign participants will:
Share best practices and operational experiences
Enhance interoperability between armed forces
Build mutual trust and understanding
Strengthening Military Ties
This joint training exercise reflects a shared commitment to global security and counter-terrorism efforts. By engaging in such collaborative programs, the participating countries aim to:
Improve coordination in multinational operations
Develop unified strategies against common threats
Promote peace and stability in the region
About the CIJW School, Vairengte
Established in 1970, the Counter Insurgency & Jungle Warfare School is renowned for its expertise in unconventional warfare training. Recognized as a center of excellence, the institution has trained thousands of military personnel from India and abroad, focusing on:
Adapting to evolving conflict scenarios
Innovative training methodologies
Realistic simulation exercises
The school’s motto, “Fight the guerrilla like a guerrilla,” encapsulates its emphasis on mastering the art of jungle warfare and counter-insurgency operations.
This collaborative training initiative at CIJW School, Vairengte, not only enhances the operational capabilities of the participating officers but also reinforces the bonds of friendship and cooperation between India and its partner nations. Through shared learning and joint efforts, these countries are taking significant steps toward ensuring collective security and preparedness in the face of evolving global threats.
As part of ongoing efforts to enhance readiness and innovation, the Army Commander of Western Command reviewed the operational preparedness of the Kharga Corps under the banner of #StrongAndCapable.
Focus on Niche Technology and Innovation
During the visit, the Army Commander commended the Kharga Corps for its proactive adoption of niche technologies, emphasizing their importance in modern warfare. He urged all personnel to continue striving for excellence in their operational and training endeavors.
Advanced Training Facilities
The Army Commander visited the newly commissioned containerized shooting range, a cutting-edge facility designed to enhance marksmanship training. While there, he interacted with the team actively practicing for upcoming tournaments, highlighting the importance of precision and discipline in building operational capabilities.
Commitment to Excellence
The visit reflected the Western Command’s focus on fostering innovation, readiness, and skill development, ensuring that formations like the Kharga Corps remain strong and capable to meet future challenges. The emphasis on modern training facilities and advanced technologies underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining operational superiority.
