Srinagar recently witnessed a momentous celebration as the High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) of the Indian Army marked its platinum jubilee, commemorating 75 years of exceptional service in training and operational readiness in challenging terrains such as mountains, snow-covered areas, and glaciated regions of India.

Founded in 1948 initially as the Army Ski Training School, HAWS has transformed over the decades into a premier institution recognized for equipping the Indian Army, paramilitary forces, special missions, and personnel from allied nations with specialized combat skills. The school’s evolution reflects its commitment to meeting the unique demands of warfare in high-altitude environments, as highlighted by a spokesman from the Srinagar-based defense establishment.

The grand celebration underscored HAWS’ rich legacy and its significant contributions to national defense, adventure sports, and mountaineering. This milestone provided a moment for reflection on the school’s notable achievements, including its crucial involvement in historic military operations such as Operation Meghdoot in 1984 and Operation Vijay in 1999.

During the jubilee, special homage was paid to the valiant ‘mountain warriors’ whose exceptional courage and skills have been foundational to HAWS’ ethos and have played a vital role in safeguarding national interests. The institution is a repository of numerous gallantry awards, commendation plaques, and accolades in adventure climbing and winter sports, cementing its esteemed position in both military history and civilian accomplishments.

Reverently referred to as the ‘White Devils’, HAWS symbolizes excellence, resilience, and innovative spirit in overcoming formidable challenges and adversities. The platinum jubilee celebrations also served as an opportunity to honor the school’s heroes, acknowledge its remarkable legacy, and recommit to the pursuit of excellence in military training.

With its unmatched expertise and crucial operational significance, HAWS is poised to remain a cornerstone of India’s defense preparedness, bolstering its stature as a global leader in high-altitude warfare training. The occasion not only celebrated the past but also aimed to inspire future endeavors in military training and operations, ensuring that HAWS continues to produce elite soldiers adept at handling the rigors of mountain warfare.

The Vizag Navy Marathon is set to take place at RK Beach on December 15, showcasing a collaboration between the Indian Navy and various local agencies and sports organizations. The marathon has received certification from the Association of International Marathons (AIMS), underscoring its international standards and organization.

With participation expected to soar to around 13,000 individuals from both India and abroad, the event aims to cater to runners of all skill levels through multiple race categories. These categories include a Full Marathon, Half Marathon, a 10 km race, and a 5 km race, each with staggered starting times. The Full Marathon will kick off at 4:15 a.m., followed by the Half Marathon at 4:30 a.m., the 10 km race at 5:30 a.m., and the 5 km race at 6:15 a.m. All races will start and finish in front of the Vishwapriya Function Hall located near RK Beach.

Ensuring the safety and well-being of participants, the organizing committee has planned extensive medical support throughout the marathon. Five ambulances will be strategically stationed at the Start/Finish line and at key turn-around points for the Full, Half Marathon, and 10 km races. Additionally, twelve medical stations will be positioned along the race routes for rapid assistance, while physio teams will be present at both the Start/Finish line and critical locations along the route. Six mobile medical teams will also be deployed to provide immediate support in emergencies.

To assist participants with hydration, approximately 12 to 16 hydration stations will be set up along the marathon course, making it easier for runners to remain hydrated and energized as they tackle the challenges of the race.

Designated parking facilities will be available to accommodate spectators and participants, with slots prepared at AU English Medium School, AU Convention Hall, and the APIIC Grounds. All these arrangements indicate a robust commitment to delivering a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience for all involved in the marathon.

The Indian Army has reportedly uncovered a significant terrorist hideout in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the recovery of a substantial cache of arms and ammunition during a coordinated operation on December 11. According to military officials, the operation was carried out by troops from the Rashtriya Rifles in the densely forested area of Mahore.

During the operation, the army seized an AK assault rifle along with three magazines containing over 400 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, two pistols were recovered, accompanied by two magazines holding 14 rounds, as well as four hand grenades. Authorities indicated that the search operation was ongoing, and they were awaiting further details regarding the findings and any potential leads that may arise from the intelligence gathered.

This operation follows a tragic incident that occurred on December 9, when an Army soldier lost his life due to a mine blast near the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district. Havildar V Subbaiah Varikunta of the 25 Rashtriya Rifles was conducting an area domination patrol in the Thanedar Tekri region when he accidentally stepped on a landmine, resulting in his death. The loss of the soldier has raised concerns about mine safety in high-risk areas and has underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the armed forces in maintaining security in the region.

The operations and incidents in Jammu and Kashmir highlight the delicate security situation in the area, with continued efforts by the military to combat terrorism while ensuring the safety of their personnel. Further updates regarding the ongoing search and the implications of the uncovered arms cache are anticipated as the situation develops.

In a significant step towards enhancing disaster management capabilities in India, the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS) and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) formalized their collaborative efforts by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on December 11, 2024. This agreement seeks to bolster research, innovation, and the overall effectiveness of disaster response strategies across the nation.

The MoU establishes a comprehensive framework for joint initiatives that emphasize research in disaster management practices and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations. By focusing on providing evidence-based policy inputs to the Government of India, the partnership aims to inform decision-making and improve responses during emergencies.

Training programs designed to enhance the capacities of various stakeholders, including armed forces personnel, NDMA officials, and other key agencies, form a core component of this collaboration. These programs will equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage disaster scenarios.

Moreover, the agreement underscores the importance of public awareness campaigns centered around disaster preparedness and risk reduction. Such campaigns are critical for informing citizens about how to better prepare and respond to natural calamities, ultimately fostering a culture of resilience within communities.

Alongside domestic initiatives, the two institutions also plan to engage in international collaborations aimed at enhancing global cooperation in disaster management. This endeavor aligns seamlessly with India’s foreign policy objectives, positioning the country as a proactive player in international disaster management efforts.

The MoU was signed by Lt Gen Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd), an NDMA member, and Major General (Dr) Ashok Kumar (Retd), the director general of CENJOWS. Both leaders spoke about the strategic significance of the partnership for creating a safer and more disaster-resilient nation. Major General (Dr) Ashok Kumar highlighted the potential of joint research to yield actionable policy recommendations that can contribute to enhancing resilience not only within India but also on a global scale.

This agreement reinforces CENJOWS’s role as a think tank that bridges the gap between the armed forces and civilian agencies, while the NDMA reiterates its commitment to a holistic and technology-driven approach to disaster management. The collaboration is expected to yield substantial benefits, strengthening India’s ability to respond to disasters effectively and enhancing its reputation in international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.

Seventy-two-year-old S.L. Devaramani, a distinguished Indian Army veteran, recently showcased his remarkable athletic prowess at the sixth National Senior Citizens Open Championship held in Secunderabad. Competing against fellow senior athletes, Devaramani made headlines by securing two gold medals in the 3-km run and the 3-km race walk, alongside a bronze in the 1,500 m run.

This impressive feat adds to an illustrious athletic career spanning over 55 years, during which Devaramani has amassed more than 400 medals. His commitment to fitness and competition remained steadfast even after retiring from military service, as he continued to participate in numerous athletics events both nationally and internationally, including competitions in countries such as Sweden, Dubai, and Singapore.

At the championship in Secunderabad, Devaramani competed in three different events: the 1,500 m run, the 3-km run, and the 3-km race walk. His continued dedication to the sport serves as an inspiration to many, proving that age is no barrier to achieving excellence in athletics. The event not only highlighted his individual accomplishments but also emphasized the spirit and resilience of senior athletes striving to stay active and competitive well into their golden years.

In a significant social controversy, the Kodagu Sarvajanangada Okkuta has announced a peaceful bandh in Kodagu district tomorrow, aiming to address remarks made by a local lawyer about Indian Army heroes Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa and Padma Bhushan Gen. K.S. Thimayya. The bandh is scheduled to take place from 6 am to 12 noon.

During a press conference held yesterday, Okkuta Convenor Rajiv Bopaiah condemned the derogatory comments made by the advocate on social media, asserting that such statements create unrest within the community. He emphasized the organization’s demand for the exile of the lawyer from the district and indicated that they are prepared to engage in a legal battle if necessary to seek justice.

Bopaiah’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among local organizations, as support for the bandh has been garnered from various groups, underscoring a united front against what they perceive as disrespect towards revered figures in Indian military history. Chamber of Commerce President Nagendra Prasad noted that all business establishments in the area would close their doors in solidarity during the bandh hours.

Support for the bandh was echoed by leaders from other organizations present at the press meet, including Hotel Association Vice-President Zaheer, Bunts Association District President Jagadish, Owners and Drivers Association District President Medappa, and Kodagu Sarvajanangada Okkuta Member Prabhu Poonacha. Their collective efforts highlight a community-driven approach to safeguarding local sentiments and respecting the legacy of national heroes.