A solemn naming ceremony was held for the newly constructed Kargil Bypass Bridge, which has been officially named ‘Captain Anuj Nayyar, Maha Vir Chakra Setu’. The ceremony was organised by the Indian Army as a tribute to the valour of Captain Anuj Nayyar and the soldiers of the 17 JAT Battalion, as well as the enduring support of the local people of Kargil.

Captain Anuj Nayyar was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest gallantry award, for his courageous role in capturing the Pimple Complex on the western slopes of Point 4875 in the Mushkoh Valley during Operation Vijay in 1999.

The ceremony was attended by Captain Nayyar’s mother, Meena Nayyar, his younger brother Karan Nayyar, family guests, members of the 17 JAT Battalion, and civil dignitaries. Meena Nayyar and Karan Nayyar unveiled a commemorative plaque during the event.

In her emotional address, Meena Nayyar recalled her son’s bravery and expressed her gratitude that his name will now be permanently associated with the land where he made the supreme sacrifice.

The newly named bridge will serve as a key bypass to Kargil town, improving traffic flow and connectivity on the crucial National Highway 1-D, which plays a vital role in both civilian travel and military logistics in the region.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi will sponsor the education of 22 children from Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district who lost one or both parents in Pakistan shelling during Operation Sindoor, senior Congress leader Tariq Hameed Karra announced on Monday.

Speaking to reporters in Rajouri, Karra said the initiative follows Gandhi’s visit to Poonch in the aftermath of heavy cross-border shelling and drone attacks by Pakistan from May 7 to 10. The attacks were in response to Indian missile strikes on terror infrastructure across the Line of Control following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

Poonch alone reported 13 civilian deaths, the highest in the region, out of a total of 28 fatalities during the Pakistani offensive. Several children were left orphaned or lost their primary breadwinners, prompting Gandhi to ask Congress leaders to compile a list of school-going children in need of support.

“A lot of civilian casualties and damage to properties took place in Poonch and Rajouri. Rahul Gandhi visited the bereaved families and instructed us to identify children who lost a parent or both, especially those who were dependent on them for education. We have submitted a list of 22 such children from Poonch, and more names may be added,” Karra said.

The Congress leader said he will visit Poonch on Tuesday to distribute the educational assistance on Gandhi’s behalf.

“This is a personal gesture by Rahul Gandhi to ensure the children’s education does not suffer due to the tragedy. It is aimed at giving them a sense of security and continuity,” he added.

Karra also clarified that there were no rifts with pre-poll ally National Conference but pointed out the Congress was still waiting for a coordination committee with the ruling party to be formed, even nine months after the elections.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi will sponsor the education of 22 children from Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district who lost one or both parents in Pakistani shelling during Operation Sindoor, senior Congress leader Tariq Hameed Karra announced on Monday.

Speaking to reporters in Rajouri, Karra said the initiative follows Gandhi’s visit to Poonch in the aftermath of heavy cross-border shelling and drone attacks by Pakistan from May 7 to 10. The attacks were in response to Indian missile strikes on terror infrastructure across the Line of Control following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

Poonch alone reported 13 civilian deaths, the highest in the region, out of a total of 28 fatalities during the Pakistani offensive. Several children were left orphaned or lost their primary breadwinners, prompting Gandhi to ask Congress leaders to compile a list of school-going children in need of support.

“A lot of civilian casualties and damage to properties took place in Poonch and Rajouri. Rahul Gandhi visited the bereaved families and instructed us to identify children who lost a parent or both, especially those who were dependent on them for education. We have submitted a list of 22 such children from Poonch, and more names may be added,” Karra said.

The Congress leader said he will visit Poonch on Tuesday to distribute the educational assistance on Gandhi’s behalf.

“This is a personal gesture by Rahul Gandhi to ensure the children’s education does not suffer due to the tragedy. It is aimed at giving them a sense of security and continuity,” he added.

Karra also clarified that there were no rifts with pre-poll ally National Conference but pointed out the Congress was still waiting for a coordination committee with the ruling party to be formed, even nine months after the elections.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday confirmed in Parliament that the three terrorists responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack were neutralized in Operation Mahadev, conducted in Jammu and Kashmir a day earlier. Addressing the Lok Sabha during the debate on Operation Sindoor, Shah named the terrorists as Suleiman, Afghani, and Gibran—senior operatives of the Pakistan-backed Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit.

“These three terrorists who massacred 26 civilians in Baisaran Valley have been eliminated,” Shah declared, crediting the coordinated effort of the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police. Suleiman, identified as a top Lashkar commander, had direct involvement in the Pahalgam incident. Afghani and Gibran, too, were on the most-wanted list.

The Home Minister said he rushed to Srinagar immediately after the April 22 attack, conducting high-level security reviews to ensure the culprits did not escape across the Line of Control. He revealed that the Intelligence Bureau had received human intelligence on May 22 regarding the terrorists’ presence in Dachigam near Srinagar. Following confirmation of their location, a joint operation was launched on July 22 that ended with all three terrorists being killed.

To confirm their involvement in the Pahalgam attack, Shah detailed the forensic process. “The NIA had earlier arrested the locals who provided shelter to these terrorists. They identified the bodies. We also recovered the rifles used—one M9 and two AK-47s—and flew them to the Chandigarh FSL. Ballistic analysis confirmed a 100 percent match between these weapons and the bullet shells recovered from the Pahalgam site,” he said, holding up the report and citing verification by six forensic scientists.

Among the most striking pieces of evidence, Shah mentioned Pakistani voter IDs for two of the terrorists and chocolate wrappers manufactured in Pakistan recovered from their belongings. “This confirms that they came from across the border. What further proof is needed?” he asked, strongly criticising senior Congress leader P Chidambaram for questioning Pakistan’s role in the attack.

Shah condemned the Opposition for not welcoming the elimination of the terrorists, stating, “The killers of our citizens are dead, but some in the House are not happy. This is shameful.” He concluded by asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi not only led the elimination of terrorist masterminds through Operation Sindoor but that security forces have now brought their executioners to justice.

The announcement was met with applause from BJP MPs and protests from the Opposition benches.

The Indian Army and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) have launched the 14th edition of their joint military drill, Exercise Bold Kurukshetra, at a training facility in Jodhpur. The exercise, which began on July 27, continues a 20-year tradition of defense collaboration between the two nations and aims to boost joint operational capabilities under a United Nations mandate.

The opening ceremony featured a ceremonial plaque and flag exchange, symbolizing the enduring military cooperation between India and Singapore. Senior officers from both sides, including those from the Indian Army’s Bogra Brigade and the SAF contingent, attended the event and initiated the first phase of the exercise, which included tactical discussions and a table-top simulation to foster operational synergy.

In the coming days, troops will participate in complex field maneuvers, including live fire exercises and combat coordination drills designed to enhance interoperability in peacekeeping and conflict scenarios. The joint training focuses on responding to multi-domain threats, conducting joint planning, and executing coordinated responses in simulated conflict zones.

Established in 2003, Exercise Bold Kurukshetra has become a key pillar of India-Singapore military ties. The cooperation was further strengthened through the 2017 naval logistics agreement that allows both sides to access each other’s bases for refueling and supplies. According to a 2022 study published in the Journal of Defense Studies, joint training exercises such as this one have been shown to improve coordination in multinational operations by up to 30 percent.

This year’s exercise takes place against the backdrop of growing global peacekeeping challenges. With over 80,000 troops deployed worldwide in UN missions, India and Singapore’s focus on readiness and coordination underscores their commitment to global peace and security efforts.

Beyond joint army training, the India-Singapore strategic partnership includes a wide range of defense collaborations, from maritime security to joint naval drills and emerging technology development. These initiatives are part of a broader framework laid out under the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) and other bilateral strategic pacts.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has initiated an investigation into the killing of Sulieman alias Asif, the alleged mastermind of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. He was gunned down along with two associates in a high-intensity encounter with security forces in the Harwan area near Srinagar on July 28. The operation, codenamed Operation Mahadev, was executed by the Indian Army’s elite para commandos in the rugged terrain of Dachigam forest.

A team of NIA officials arrived at the Police Control Room (PCR) in Srinagar on Tuesday to identify the bodies of the three slain terrorists. Officials said the agency is bringing in witnesses in small groups to confirm the identity of Sulieman with complete certainty.

The security forces launched Operation Mahadev after technical surveillance intercepted a satellite phone signal connected to the Pahalgam attack. Acting swiftly on the input, troops traced the source to the Mulnar area near Dachigam National Park and carried out the strike.

Apart from Sulieman, the two other terrorists neutralized have been identified as Jibran and Hamza Afghani. Jibran was allegedly involved in the deadly terror attack at the Sonamarg Tunnel project site in October 2024 that claimed seven lives, including that of a doctor. Hamza is believed to be a Pakistani national.

From the encounter site, security personnel recovered one M4 carbine, two AK-series rifles, and a cache of ammunition. The bodies were transported to the PCR late Monday evening.

As many as 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed in the April 22 terror attack at Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam. The incident led to the launch of Operation Sindoor on May 7, an extensive cross-border crackdown on terror infrastructure based in Pakistan.

The Army believes another terrorist group may be active in the surrounding forest region. Search operations are underway.

Meanwhile, political reactions have started pouring in. The Congress party has questioned the intelligence failure and raised concerns over the security lapses that allowed the Pahalgam attack to occur.

As the Indian Air Force prepares to bid farewell to its iconic MiG-21 Bison fleet by the end of 2025, one veteran stands out for his unmatched bond with the aircraft. Air Commodore Surendra Singh Tyagi (Retd), now 83 years old, holds the world record for the most flying hours on a MiG-21, having logged 4,306 hours and 6,316 sorties during his career.

With the aircraft approaching retirement, Tyagi has expressed a heartfelt wish to fly the MiG-21 one final time. “This is one request which I will be making to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, whom I shall be meeting very soon,” he said in a candid phone conversation from his home in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

Tyagi’s association with the MiG-21 is legendary. His record was recognized by the Russian government in 2013, when the Russian ambassador presented him with a trophy acknowledging his exceptional achievement. The Indian Air Force also honored him with a golden plaque, and he was felicitated by then Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao in 1993.

“I never flew for myself. You flew for the people with you, and you gave them whatever positive things you learnt,” Tyagi reflected. Beyond his flight hours, he is remembered as a mentor who trained and inspired generations of IAF pilots.

The MiG-21, which entered IAF service in 1963, has been a cornerstone of Indian air power. It played key roles in the 1965 and 1971 wars, and later in the Kargil conflict, and has seen multiple upgrades over the years. The MiG-21 Bison, introduced in the early 2000s, brought modern radar, avionics, and missile capabilities to the ageing platform, keeping it combat-ready into the 21st century.

Despite its achievements, the aircraft has faced criticism due to its high accident rate. Over 400 crashes have been recorded since its induction, earning it the unfortunate nickname “flying coffin.” The IAF has been steadily phasing out the MiG-21, replacing it with more advanced jets such as the Tejas, Rafale, and the upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft. The final squadron, No. 3 “Cobras” based at Nal in Rajasthan, is expected to retire by late 2025.

Air Commodore Tyagi’s request for a final sortie is a powerful symbol of his bond with the aircraft. While a solo flight at his age is unlikely due to medical and operational constraints, a ceremonial sortie in a two-seat MiG-21 trainer with an active IAF pilot remains a possibility. Such a gesture would serve as a meaningful tribute to both the pilot and the platform.

Tyagi’s story mirrors the evolution of the IAF. He began flying the MiG-21 when it was among the most advanced fighters in the world, capable of challenging Pakistan’s F-86 Sabres and F-104 Starfighters. Over the decades, he witnessed the aircraft’s transformation and its role in shaping India’s air dominance.

His final flight would not only honor a lifetime of service but also mark a poignant farewell to an aircraft that defined an era in Indian military aviation.

A seminar exploring the long-standing civilizational and cultural ties between India and Tibet was held at the Headquarters Central Command in Lucknow, bringing together military officers, academics, and civil officials. The event delved into centuries-old connections, tracing back to the 6th century when Buddhism spread from India to Tibet.

Retired Major General MS Mokha delivered the keynote address, offering historical insights that were well received by the attendees. Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Command, praised the session and emphasized the importance of understanding historical narratives in shaping current strategic perspectives. A veteran of key commands, including the Fire and Fury Corps in Leh and the Counter Insurgency Force in Kashmir, Lt Gen Sengupta underscored how historical awareness contributes to strategic culture and perception management.

As part of the seminar, a ceremonial exchange took place where Lt Gen Sengupta presented an award to a civilian participant, symbolizing cooperation between the military and civilian communities. A group photograph featuring all attendees captured the inclusive nature of the event.

This initiative aligns with Central Command’s broader goals of fostering cultural understanding and supporting veteran resettlement programs. The seminar also recalled India’s longstanding support for Tibet, notably when the 13th Dalai Lama was granted asylum during Qing China’s unsuccessful invasion in the early 20th century.

By revisiting these historical linkages, the event aimed to spark contemporary dialogue on strategic cooperation and cultural diplomacy, potentially influencing India’s regional outlook and engagement with its Himalayan neighbors.

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has decided to include ‘Operation Sindoor’ in school textbooks, drawing strong praise from Army veterans who see the move as a major step toward educating students about India’s internal security operations.

Wing Commander Praful Bakshi (Retd.) said the operation had become a powerful symbol of India’s fight against terrorism. “It is essential for school children, college students, and the public to understand the impact of Operation Sindoor. It has now become a symbol that marks the beginning of the end of terrorism in India,” he said.

Colonel Rajiv Khakera (Retd.), who served in the Army’s Corps of Air Defence, called it a proud moment. “We all saw how the Army used precision firepower and missile systems during Operation Sindoor. It’s a matter of great happiness that every child in the country will now learn about this heroic chapter. It will motivate many to join the Army,” he told IANS.

Lt Colonel Kapil Dutt (Retd.) called the decision “very good” and said that students learning about Operation Sindoor would be deeply inspired. “It will ignite a sense of service and inspire many to pursue a career in the armed forces,” he added.

Retired officers believe that Operation Sindoor, which played a decisive role in shaping India’s counter-terrorism doctrine, should be preserved in national memory. They said including it in school books ensures that the sacrifices of soldiers and the lessons of modern warfare reach future generations.

General P.S. Malhotra (Retd.) welcomed the development and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s outreach efforts, especially through programs like ‘Mann Ki Baat’. “The Prime Minister is connected to the people. Operation Sindoor’s inclusion in NCERT books strengthens our national identity,” he said.

NCERT is expected to implement the change in the upcoming academic session, as part of a larger initiative to integrate military history and national pride into India’s education system.

The Supreme Court on Monday expressed serious dissatisfaction with Madhya Pradesh Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah’s apology over his defamatory remarks against Indian Army Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, calling it inadequate and lacking sincerity.

A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi reprimanded the BJP minister for failing to issue a proper public apology and said his conduct was “testing the court’s patience.” The bench added that the minister’s actions were making it difficult to believe his intentions were genuine.

The remarks came during the hearing of a case concerning Shah’s controversial statements about Col Qureshi, who had briefed the nation on the Army’s actions during Operation Sindoor. The minister had faced backlash after a widely circulated video showed him making offensive comments following the operation.

Shah’s lawyer, K. Parmeshwar, told the court that an apology had been posted online and that it would be submitted on record during the next hearing. However, the court made it clear that a mere online apology would not suffice and insisted on a more meaningful acknowledgment of wrongdoing.

Seeking clarity on the investigation’s progress, the court questioned a member of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and directed the team to file a status report by August 13. The court noted that the SIT had examined 87 individuals so far and was still reviewing statements.

The three-member SIT was set up following directions from the apex court. The bench instructed the investigators to take the probe to its logical conclusion within the statutory 90-day timeframe. The matter will next be heard on August 18.

The controversy erupted after Shah’s remarks about Col Qureshi were widely condemned. During a previous hearing, the Madhya Pradesh High Court had described the language used by the minister as “language of gutters,” reflecting the severity of the allegations against him.

The Indian Army has tested a suite of advanced surveillance and artificial intelligence technologies during a high-altitude military exercise named ‘Divya Drishti’ in East Sikkim. Held in July 2025, the exercise aimed to assess the Army’s preparedness for future warfare scenarios by integrating AI-driven tools with ground and aerial surveillance systems.

Troops from the Trishakti Corps simulated realistic combat conditions using unmanned aerial vehicles, drones, and ground-based platforms to evaluate sensor-to-shooter capabilities. Key systems on display included AI-enabled sensors that were networked through secure communication systems, allowing seamless data flow from forward areas to command centres in real time.

The Ministry of Defence said the exercise focused on enhancing battlefield awareness and reducing decision-making time. “On the modern battlefield, the ability to see more, understand quickly, and act fast decides success,” it stated.

Lieutenant General Rakesh Kapoor, Deputy Chief of Army Staff (IS&C), reviewed the exercise on behalf of Army Headquarters. General Officer Commanding of Trishakti Corps, Lt Gen Zubin A Minwalla, said that the technologies were tested under demanding conditions to draw actionable insights that would influence future doctrine and tactics.

The Army’s Eastern Command described the exercise as a step toward greater self-reliance and digital transformation, in line with the Army’s Decade of Transformation plan and the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Officials indicated that lessons from ‘Divya Drishti’ will be incorporated into training and procurement strategies to ensure the Indian Army stays ahead in modern high-tech conflict environments.