Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Upendra Dwivedi, visited the Smritivan Earthquake Memorial and Museum in Bhuj, paying tribute to the victims of the 2001 Gujarat earthquake. The memorial stands as a symbol of resilience and remembrance, commemorating those who lost their lives in one of India’s most devastating natural disasters.
The Smritivan Museum, which has been nominated by UNESCO’s prestigious Prix Versailles as one of the world’s most beautiful museums, showcases Gujarat’s journey of reconstruction and recovery after the earthquake. It serves as an inspiration for future generations, highlighting stories of survival, rehabilitation, and resilience.
During his visit, General Dwivedi interacted with key officials, including the Deputy Commissioner of Bhuj, Inspector General of Kutch, and the Director of Smritivan. Their discussions focused on the significance of the memorial in preserving history, the role of disaster management strategies, and the collaborative efforts in community rebuilding.
As part of his ongoing visit, the COAS also met with veterans, recognizing their selfless service to the nation. He praised their continued contributions to nation-building and acknowledged their efforts in strengthening the defense ecosystem and community welfare initiatives.
The visit of General Upendra Dwivedi to Smritivan reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to honoring the past while preparing for the future, and underscored the enduring bond between the armed forces, veterans, and the community.
Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Upendra Dwivedi, visited the forward areas of the Creek Sector, where he conducted a comprehensive review of the operational preparedness of the formation. His visit underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to safeguarding national security in challenging terrains and ensuring the highest levels of readiness and coordination among various security agencies.
During the visit, General Dwivedi closely assessed the infrastructure development and technology absorption initiatives undertaken by the formation. He also interacted with personnel from the Indian Air Force (IAF), Border Security Force (BSF), and Indian Coast Guard (ICG), reaffirming the importance of joint operations and inter-agency synergy in securing India’s strategic frontiers.
A key highlight of the visit was the demonstration of operational battle drills, showcasing seamless integration and multi-agency coordination at the tactical level. These drills reflected the high state of combat readiness and the ability of India’s armed forces to respond effectively to evolving security threats in the region.
On the occasion of the Indian Coast Guard Raising Day, the COAS extended his compliments to ICG personnel, acknowledging their crucial role in coastal security, maritime surveillance, and disaster response.
In his address, General Upendra Dwivedi interacted with all ranks, commended their dedication and professional excellence, and felicitated individuals for their outstanding contributions to national security. His visit served as a morale booster for the troops and reinforced the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to operational preparedness and national defence.
In a remarkable achievement, Naik Veer Singh of the Battle Axe Division was adjudged the Best Foreign Student and secured top honours in the prestigious nine-month-long Sniper Course conducted in Sri Lanka. His exceptional performance is a testament to the high training standards and operational excellence of the Indian Army.
The Sniper Course, known for its rigorous selection criteria and demanding training regimen, evaluates participants on precision shooting, stealth tactics, endurance, and battlefield adaptability. Naik Veer Singh’s outstanding performance in the course highlights his exceptional marksmanship, tactical proficiency, and resilience, setting a benchmark for future participants.
His achievement not only brings pride to the Indian Army but also strengthens the military cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. The Indian Army continues to excel in international military competitions, reflecting its commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards in modern warfare.
Naik Veer Singh’s success serves as an inspiration for fellow soldiers and underscores the Indian Army’s legacy of producing world-class warriors capable of excelling on any battlefield.
In a significant step toward strengthening India-Bhutan defense ties, a high-level delegation led by Lieutenant General Batoo Tshering, Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the Royal Bhutan Army, visited the Officers Training Academy (OTA) Gaya. The visit aimed to foster deeper cultural and military cooperation between the two nations.
During their visit, the delegation gained firsthand insights into the rigorous training regimen and daily life of Officer Cadets at OTA Gaya. They observed various training modules, including physical endurance drills, tactical exercises, leadership development programs, and classroom sessions designed to prepare cadets for the challenges of military service.
This visit forms part of a six-day official tour to India, focused on enhancing bilateral military cooperation and exploring new avenues for defense collaboration. The Royal Bhutan Army and the Indian Armed Forces share a long-standing and strategic partnership, with India playing a crucial role in training and equipping Bhutanese defense personnel.
Lieutenant General Batoo Tshering’s visit underscores the enduring friendship and military camaraderie between Bhutan and India. It also paves the way for greater cooperation in defence training, joint exercises, and knowledge exchange, strengthening regional security and mutual trust between the two nations.
In the realm of space exploration, few stories are as inspiring as that of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. As an accomplished test pilot and an astronaut candidate, Shukla represents the pinnacle of dedication, skill, and ambition. His journey is not just a personal triumph but also a beacon of hope for aspiring aviators and space enthusiasts across India. Here are five inspiring facts about this remarkable individual that highlight his contributions and aspirations.
Early Life and Inspirations
A Journey Begins in Lucknow
Born on October 10, 1985, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Shubhanshu Shukla grew up in a family that valued education and perseverance. As the youngest of three siblings, he was motivated by the tales of valor from the Kargil War, which ignited his passion for serving in the armed forces. This early inspiration laid the foundation for his future career in the Indian Air Force.
Shukla’s academic journey took him to the National Defence Academy (NDA), where he honed his skills and developed a strong sense of discipline. Graduating in 2005, he was commissioned into the Fighter stream of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in June 2006. His time at the NDA not only equipped him with technical knowledge but also instilled in him the values of leadership and teamwork.
Distinguished Military Career
A Rising Star in the IAF
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s military career is marked by significant achievements. With over 2,000 hours of flight experience, he has flown a diverse range of aircraft, including the Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, and Jaguar. His expertise as a test pilot and Fighter Combat Leader has earned him respect and recognition within the IAF.
Promotion to Group Captain
In March 2024, Shukla was promoted to the rank of Group Captain, a testament to his exceptional contributions to the IAF. His leadership skills and commitment to excellence have made him a role model for many young officers in the force, inspiring them to strive for greatness in their careers.
Selection as an Astronaut Candidate
The Gaganyaan Program
In 2019, Shubhanshu Shukla was selected as one of the four astronaut candidates for India’s ambitious Gaganyaan program, which aims to send the first Indian astronauts into space. This historic mission is a significant step for India in establishing itself as a formidable player in the global space community.
Rigorous Training
After being shortlisted, Shukla underwent rigorous training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia, where he completed basic astronaut training in 2021. Following his return to India, he continued his training at the Astronaut Training Facility in Bengaluru, preparing for the challenges of space travel. This comprehensive training regimen has equipped him with the skills necessary to excel in the demanding environment of space.
Axiom Mission 4: Pioneering Space Exploration
The Upcoming Mission
In August 2024, it was announced that Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla would serve as the pilot for Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), a private mission to the International Space Station (ISS) scheduled for launch in 2025. This mission marks a significant milestone, as he will become the first Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS in nearly 40 years, following the legendary Rakesh Sharma.
Collaborative Efforts
The Axiom Mission 4 is a collaborative effort between NASA, ISRO, and Axiom Space, showcasing the power of international partnerships in advancing human space exploration. As the mission pilot, Shukla will work alongside a diverse crew, conducting scientific experiments and outreach programs during the 14-day mission. This collaboration underscores the importance of global cooperation in pushing the boundaries of space exploration.
Inspiring Future Generations
A Vision for the Youth
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is not just focused on his mission but is also passionate about inspiring the next generation of explorers. He believes that his journey to space can ignite curiosity among young Indians and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). By sharing his experiences through pictures and videos, he aims to connect with the youth and motivate them to dream big.
Embracing Cultural Heritage
During his time aboard the ISS, Shukla plans to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage by practicing yoga and sharing elements that represent India. This initiative reflects his commitment to promoting Indian traditions and values on a global platform, further inspiring young minds to embrace their roots while reaching for the stars.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s journey from a young boy in Lucknow to a pioneering astronaut is a testament to the power of dreams, dedication, and hard work. His achievements serve as an inspiration for countless individuals aspiring to make their mark in the fields of aviation and space exploration. As he prepares for the Axiom Mission 4, Shukla embodies the spirit of adventure and the relentless pursuit of knowledge, paving the way for future generations to follow in his footsteps.
In a world where possibilities seem limitless, Shukla’s story reminds us that with courage and determination, we can all reach for the stars.
The Inter-Squadron Cross-Country Championship at the Indian Naval Academy (INA) witnessed an extraordinary display of grit, endurance, and teamwork as officer trainees pushed their physical and mental limits across a grueling course.
A total of 517 officer trainees, including 53 women cadets, tackled the demanding terrain that featured steep slopes, rugged jungle tracks, and challenging beach runs. The event tested not only their physical endurance but also their determination, resilience, and strategic teamwork—key attributes essential for future naval leaders.
After an intense contest, Eagle Squadron emerged victorious, securing the coveted championship title. Their stellar performance highlighted the squadron’s exceptional fitness, coordination, and winning attitude.
The championship is a testament to the Indian Naval Academy’s commitment to shaping future naval officers by instilling a culture of fitness, perseverance, and competitive spirit. Such physically demanding events play a crucial role in preparing officer trainees for the challenges of a naval career, reinforcing the values of resilience, discipline, and teamwork.
With each participant demonstrating remarkable fortitude, the event was a resounding success, further strengthening the spirit of camaraderie and excellence among the cadets.
A thought-provoking panel discussion on the topic “IN SMART: Is it Smart?” was held at the Naval Base, Kochi, under the aegis of INHS Sanjivani. The event brought together a distinguished panel of experts who deliberated on the effectiveness of the IN SMART policy in promoting mental health and well-being in the Indian Navy.
The discussion focused on various aspects of the Divisional System and Departmental Organisation, highlighting their pivotal role in fostering mental resilience among naval personnel. The panellists emphasized that a well-structured support system within the Navy significantly contributes to the psychological well-being of sailors and officers alike.
A key takeaway from the discussion was the comprehensive approach required for overall personal and professional growth. The importance of physical fitness, career advancement, family support, financial security, and spiritual well-being was underscored as essential components of a well-rounded and resilient naval force.
Rear Admiral Srinivas Maddula,Flag Officer Sea Training (FOST), graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He lauded the initiative and reiterated the Navy’s commitment to fostering a supportive and stress-free environment for its personnel.
The interactive session allowed participants to engage in meaningful dialogue, sharing their perspectives and experiences on mental health challenges within the Navy. The discussion was highly engaging and well-received, offering valuable insights into the implementation and future enhancement of the IN SMART policy.
The event reinforced the Indian Navy’s dedication to holistic well-being and emphasized the significance of structured mental health programs to ensure operational readiness and personal growth among its personnel.
Vice Admiral Deepak Kumar Goswami, AVSM, assumed the prestigious duties of Director General Naval Projects (DGNP), Mumbai, on 1st February 2025. An alumnus of the Naval College of Engineering, INS Shivaji, he was commissioned into the Indian Navy in November 1988 and has served with distinction for over 36 years.
Distinguished Career and Key Roles
Vice Admiral Goswami has held several key positions, significantly contributing to naval infrastructure development, warship design, and modernization projects. His vast experience includes:
Leadership in Naval Ship Repair Yards – Served as Admiral Superintendent Dockyard (ASD) at NSRY Karwar and NDMB (Naval Dockyard, Mumbai), overseeing critical maintenance and repairs.
Advanced Naval Engineering – Extensive expertise in naval project management and warship maintenance.
Strategic Planning and Modernization – Prior to his current role, he served as Assistant Chief of Materiel (D&R) at Naval Headquarters, focusing on design and refit strategies.
Role as DGNP, Mumbai
As Director General Naval Projects (Mumbai), Vice Admiral Goswami will oversee key infrastructure and modernization initiatives critical to strengthening the Indian Navy’s maritime capabilities.
His leadership is expected to drive enhanced operational readiness, dockyard expansions, and naval fleet sustainment efforts, further bolstering India’s blue-water naval ambitions.
Air Marshal Venkataramanan Rajasekhar, AVSM, assumed the prestigious appointment of Air Officer-in-Charge Maintenance at Air Headquarters on 1st February 2025.
A distinguished officer, he is a postgraduate in Control Systems from IIT Bombay and brings over 37 years of extensive experience in technical and operational domains within the Indian Air Force.
Distinguished Career and Key Contributions
Throughout his illustrious career, Air Marshal Rajasekhar has contributed significantly in various fields, including:
Communication and networking – Enhancing operational connectivity across IAF platforms.
Aircraft maintenance – Strengthening the serviceability and reliability of critical assets.
Technical training – Developing and implementing advanced training methodologies.
One of his most notable contributions was his pivotal role in the conceptualization, planning, design, and execution of the AFNET project—a secure and advanced communication network that has revolutionized IAF’s digital and operational capabilities.
Key Appointments Held
Before assuming his current role, Air Marshal Rajasekhar held several high-profile positions, including:
Commandant, MILIT – Spearheading training and capacity-building initiatives at the Military Institute of Technology.
Director General (Systems) – Overseeing critical technological advancements in defence systems.
As Air Officer-in-Charge Maintenance, he is now responsible for sustaining, modernizing, and ensuring the operational readiness of IAF’s aircraft and technical assets, further strengthening India’s air power and technological superiority.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) Air Force Station Jalahalli witnessed a grand Valedictory Parade today, marking the successful completion of training for 741 Agniveervayu trainees, including 88 women, in various technical streams.
The event showcased the discipline, skills, and technical expertise acquired by the trainees during their rigorous training program. These young air warriors are now equipped with the necessary knowledge and operational proficiency to contribute to the IAF’s technical and combat support roles.
Key Highlights of the Ceremony:
Technical Excellence: Trainees specialized in various fields such as aircraft maintenance, avionics, and weapon systems.
Women in Defence: The inclusion of 88 women trainees highlights the increasing role of women in the IAF’s operational and technical domains.
Commitment to the Nation: The Agniveervayu batch is now ready to be deployed across different IAF bases, strengthening India’s air defense and operational readiness.
The Agniveer Vayu scheme, introduced under the Agnipath initiative, aims to train and deploy young personnel in the Indian Air Force for a four-year tenure, enhancing the nation’s air combat and support capabilities.
The parade at Jalahalli stands as a testament to the IAF’s commitment to fostering a technologically proficient and mission-ready force.
