In a significant shift in military leadership, Lieutenant General V Hariharan has officially taken over command of the Indian Army’s prestigious Strike One Corps, succeeding Lieutenant General Sanjay Mitra. The ceremonial handover took place at a formal event attended by senior officers and marked by the display of national and unit flags, including the iconic “Dot On Target” insignia that reflects the corps’ proud combat heritage from the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars.
Strike One Corps, headquartered in Mathura, has undergone a strategic realignment in recent years. Since its reassignment to the Northern Command in 2021, the corps has played a pivotal role in ensuring India’s operational readiness along the sensitive Sino-Indian border in Ladakh. This realignment came in the wake of increased tensions following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, prompting the Indian Army to reinforce its presence in the region, which now hosts over 500 tanks and approximately 50,000 troops.
Lt Gen Hariharan addressed officers and troops after assuming command, urging all ranks to maintain the highest levels of professionalism, morale, and operational readiness. He emphasized the importance of constant preparedness, especially in high-altitude terrain, where Strike One Corps is frequently engaged in drills such as the recent Parvat Prahaar exercise conducted in Eastern Ladakh.
His predecessor, Lt Gen Sanjay Mitra, retires after a distinguished career spanning 34 years. His service record includes extensive operational experience along both the Line of Control and the Line of Actual Control, as well as multiple accolades, including the Chief of Army Staff and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief commendations.
With around 90 Lieutenant Generals among its 43,000 officers, the Indian Army continues to ensure dynamic leadership and institutional continuity. This transition is viewed as a key step in bolstering India’s northern defense posture amid evolving regional security challenges.
A notable leadership transition took place at INS Eksila, a vital naval engineering facility under the Eastern Naval Command, as Commodore Rupesh Venugopal officially assumed command from Commodore Ashutosh Bhat on June 16. The ceremonial handover, marked by the traditional exchange of insignia, signified a smooth and dignified change of command at one of the Indian Navy’s most technologically significant bases.
INS Eksila, commissioned on August 26, 2000, and named after the ancient city of Ekasila Nagaramu—modern-day Warangal—has long stood as a symbol of India’s naval engineering self-reliance. The base specializes in the overhaul of marine gas turbines and gas turbine generators, a feat it has been accomplishing without foreign assistance since its first successful overhaul in December 1996. Since then, the facility has completed over 66 turbine overhauls, including complex models such as the GTG 1250 2E TC, significantly contributing to the Indian Navy’s maintenance capabilities.
The transition ceremony was conducted with full military honors, reflecting the operational importance of the establishment. Commodore Venugopal, known for his extensive engineering expertise, is expected to further advance INS Eksila’s strategic goals. Under his leadership, the base is likely to continue its role in reducing India’s dependence on foreign technology. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Defense Studies credited the facility with achieving a 30% reduction in foreign reliance for naval turbine repairs.
Commodore Ashutosh Bhat, the outgoing commanding officer, has been lauded for his innovative approach during his tenure. One of the highlights of his command was the base receiving the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Trophy for Best Green Practice in 2021, recognizing its commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency.
Defense experts emphasize that structured leadership transitions such as this one ensure continuity, enhance institutional memory, and boost unit effectiveness. A 2019 U.S. Naval War College study highlighted how such handovers preserve cohesion and readiness in military units.
Strategically located in Visakhapatnam, INS Eksila remains an integral part of India’s efforts to achieve self-reliance in defense under the AatmaNirbhar Bharat initiative. The leadership change signals the continuation of a robust tradition of excellence and innovation in support of the Indian Navy’s mission to safeguard national maritime interests.
In a stirring story of perseverance, sacrifice, and national pride, Aman Pratap Singh from Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, has achieved a remarkable feat—shedding 46 kilos and walking away from a lucrative corporate career to become a Flying Officer in the Indian Air Force (IAF). His journey is not merely a personal victory but a symbol of grit, familial honor, and a deep-rooted passion to serve the nation.
Early Life and a Proud Military Legacy
Aman hails from Karanda Basant Patti, a quiet village in the Ghazipur district. His life has been steeped in the ethos of military service, with his lineage tracing back generations:
Grandfather (Sheetaldan Singh): Served in the Indian Navy
Father (Manoj Singh): Served in the Indian Air Force
Surrounded by stories of duty and discipline, Aman was raised with a strong sense of patriotism. The uniform wasn’t just a career aspiration—it was a family legacy waiting to be carried forward.
Pandemic and Weight Gain
Like many others, Aman faced unexpected challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic. Remote work, lack of physical activity, and pandemic-related stress led to rapid weight gain, pushing his weight beyond 100 kg—well above the IAF’s eligibility criteria. The fear of letting his dream slip away served as a turning point.
The Transformation
Refusing to surrender to circumstances, Aman launched a disciplined fitness regimen to reclaim his dream. His strategy included:
Structured Diet: Cutting processed foods, focusing on clean, balanced nutrition
Intense Workouts: Combining cardio, strength, and stamina training
Consistent Routine: Early mornings, regular tracking, and unwavering discipline
Mental Fortitude: Battling self-doubt with a clear vision of success
In a matter of months, Aman shed 46 kilos, transforming both his body and mindset. His transformation became a testament to what unwavering determination can achieve.
Quitting a Corporate Job
At the peak of a promising corporate career in a multinational company, Aman made a bold move—he resigned. While most would view such a role as the pinnacle of success, Aman prioritized his passion for the Indian Air Force, dedicating himself fully to rigorous exam preparation and physical training.
Cracking AFCAT
The road to the Indian Air Force is far from easy. Aman committed himself wholeheartedly to preparing for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) and related evaluations. His preparation included:
Academic Readiness: Intensive study of math, reasoning, and general awareness
Physical Conditioning: Meeting the IAF’s demanding physical standards
Interview Skills: Practicing for group discussions and personality assessments
His dedication bore fruit when he successfully cleared the selection process and earned admission to the prestigious Air Force Academy in Hyderabad.
Training at AFA
Training at the Academy is both rigorous and transformative. Aman underwent:
Physical Drills: Challenging routines to build physical resilience
Theoretical Instruction: Studies in aviation, military strategy, and operations
Leadership Development: Teamwork, decision-making, and responsibility under pressure
Fueled by his goal and family legacy, Aman thrived under pressure and emerged stronger with every challenge.
Commissioning as a Flying Officer
On June 14, 2025, Aman’s dreams were realized when he was commissioned as a Flying Officer during the Passing Out Parade at the Air Force Academy. The event, officiated by Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, saw 252 cadets take the oath to serve the nation. For Aman, it was the culmination of years of sacrifice—and a moment of immense pride for his family and village.
New Role in the Indian Air Force
Aman has been commissioned into the Administrative Branch of the IAF, where he will take on key responsibilities such as:
Personnel Administration: Ensuring the welfare and efficiency of IAF personnel
Operational Logistics: Supporting mission readiness through meticulous planning
Advanced Training: Undergoing further professional development before his first posting
Over the next three months, he will undergo specialized training before stepping into his first operational role.
A Source of Inspiration
Aman’s story has struck a chord far and wide, especially among youth from small towns and villages. His journey sends a clear message:
Determination can rewrite destiny
Personal sacrifice leads to greater purpose
Courage to follow your dream is the ultimate reward
In an age where many chase comfort, Aman’s decision to serve stands as a powerful example of integrity and patriotism.
Recognition and Community Celebration
Aman’s achievement has been met with widespread celebration across various platforms. In his village, he received a hero’s welcome, with locals organizing a grand reception to honor his success. His story has also become a source of inspiration in local schools, where it is now featured in motivational talks to encourage students to pursue their dreams. In the media, leading national and regional news outlets have highlighted his remarkable journey, showcasing it as an example of perseverance and patriotism. On social media, his dramatic physical transformation and motivational posts have struck a chord with thousands, earning him admiration and support from people across the country.
Air India flight AI 159, scheduled to depart from Ahmedabad to London at 1:10 PM today, was abruptly canceled just before takeoff due to a reported technical snag. The flight, which was expected to carry over 200 passengers, had recently been renamed from AI 171—the same flight number involved in the June 13 crash that claimed over 180 lives. That incident, which saw a Boeing 787 Dreamliner crash into a residential area near Ahmedabad airport, left only one survivor and triggered nationwide concern over aviation safety.
Today’s cancellation has intensified scrutiny of Air India’s operational standards. Passengers were left stranded at the airport, with the airline offering refunds and alternate booking arrangements. The renaming of the flight and the abrupt halt in departure reflect the growing pressure on Air India to regain public confidence and demonstrate accountability.
#BREAKING: Air India flight AI 159 from Ahmedabad to London scheduled to depart at 1:10 PM was cancelled before takeoff due to a technical snag. Over 200 passengers were affected by the cancellation. Passengers asked to take refund. AI 159 is the new name given to AI 171 flight.
Aviation experts believe the detection of the latest technical fault could point to more stringent inspections implemented in the wake of the recent disaster. According to India’s aviation regulator, there has been a 15 percent increase in the reporting of technical issues on long-haul flights since 2023. A 2024 report by the Safety Matters Foundation indicated that 20 to 30 percent of such incidents may be linked to pilot fatigue and systemic maintenance deficiencies.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, despite its strong global safety reputation, has come under renewed examination following the rare fatal crash. With investigations ongoing into both the fatal incident and today’s flight cancellation, aviation authorities are facing mounting calls for comprehensive safety audits across the Air India fleet. Industry observers warn that the latest developments underscore the urgent need for structural reforms in flight operations, safety training, and maintenance practices.
In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing conflict with Iran, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have claimed responsibility for the assassination of Major General Ali Shadmani, Iran’s newly appointed top military commander. The IDF stated that Shadmani, the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, was killed in an overnight airstrike in central Tehran.
The airstrike comes just four days after Shadmani was appointed to the position by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following the death of his predecessor, Lt. Gen. Gholamali Rashid, in a previous Israeli attack. Khamenei had praised Shadmani’s “meritorious services and valuable experience” while conferring upon him the rank of Major General.
The IDF described Shadmani as the most senior military official in Iran, calling him the “war chief of staff” and the closest remaining military figure to the Supreme Leader. According to Israeli intelligence, Shadmani commanded both the IRGC and the Iranian Armed Forces and played a central role in formulating Iran’s combat strategy.
“In his various roles, he had a direct influence on Iran’s offensive plans targeting the State of Israel,” the IDF said in a statement. The military further alleged that the Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters under Shadmani was responsible for managing combat operations and approving strategic attack plans.
“For the second time in five days, the IDF has eliminated Iran’s war-time chief of staff,” the statement read, emphasizing the precision and intelligence involved in the strike.
The strike coincides with a show of international backing for Israel. At the recently concluded G7 Summit in Italy, world leaders issued a joint statement affirming Israel’s right to self-defense amid rising tensions in the Middle East. The communiqué, published by Canada, reiterated the G7’s “commitment to peace and stability” and explicitly supported “the security of Israel.”
Iranian authorities have not yet officially confirmed the death of Ali Shadmani, but state-affiliated media have gone silent on his activities since the alleged strike. Analysts warn that this assassination could provoke a strong retaliatory response from Tehran, potentially escalating the regional conflict further.
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global inter-governmental watchdog on money laundering and terrorist financing, has strongly condemned the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, calling attention to the critical role of financial networks in facilitating such acts of violence.
In an official statement, the FATF noted that the attack “could not occur without money and the means to move funds between terrorist supporters,” marking only the third time in a decade that the body has issued such a condemnation. The move signals growing global concern over the financial infrastructures that support extremist networks.
Sources have confirmed that the FATF is preparing to release a groundbreaking report next month that, for the first time, will recognize “state-sponsored terrorism” as a distinct and serious source of terror financing. This marks a significant shift in global counterterrorism discourse and aligns with long-standing Indian assertions regarding Pakistan’s alleged role in sponsoring cross-border terrorism.
The FATF’s upcoming report will include a comprehensive analysis of terrorist financing risks and introduce a new toolkit to assess contextual risk, helping countries more accurately identify and expose jurisdictions that support terror activities. Indian officials had earlier submitted a dossier urging the FATF to include Pakistan back on the ‘grey list’ for its continued financial and operational support to terror groups.
“This, and other recent attacks, could not occur without money and the means to move funds,” the FATF reiterated in its statement. “The international community feels the severity of the attack and highlights that such attacks will not go unpunished.”
India remains one of the few countries whose National Risk Assessment identifies state-sponsored terrorism as a core threat. The FATF’s recognition of this risk is expected to bolster India’s diplomatic efforts to isolate terror-sponsoring nations and enhance global mechanisms to choke terror funding at the source.
The FATF will also host a webinar in the coming weeks to help stakeholders in both public and private sectors understand evolving risks in terrorist financing and better respond to them with effective policy tools.
A significant leadership transition took place at the Indian Army’s Konark Corps today, as Lt Gen AVS Rathee officially assumed command from Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra. The ceremonial handover, conducted near the strategically vital Rann of Kutch, highlighted the corps’ enduring role in defending India’s southern frontier with Pakistan.
Upon assuming command, Lt Gen Rathee paid homage to fallen soldiers in a solemn wreath-laying ceremony, reaffirming the corps’ reverence for its legacy. He called on troops to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and operational effectiveness, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in a region marked by complex terrain and historical tensions.
Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra concluded a two-year tenure that saw substantial gains in combat readiness and inter-agency coordination. Under his leadership, the Konark Corps enhanced its adaptability to desert warfare and intensified collaboration with the Border Security Force, particularly through joint operations involving the Creek Crocodile unit. These efforts have contributed to a 40% reduction in cross-border infiltration and smuggling attempts, according to recent military assessments.
The Rann of Kutch region, which witnessed intense action during the 1965 Indo-Pak War, continues to be of strategic importance due to its un-demarcated boundaries and persistent security threats. The Konark Corps, established in 1987, was specifically created to address these challenges and has since become a cornerstone of India’s defensive strategy in the southwest.
Lt Gen Rathee’s appointment is seen as a continuation of efforts to modernize and streamline the corps’ operations. With a mandate to integrate advanced technologies and strengthen joint-force synergy, his leadership is expected to bolster the army’s overall strategic posture in the region. As India faces evolving threats across multiple domains, the Konark Corps remains a key element in ensuring border integrity and operational superiority.
Mizoram Governor General (Retired) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, led the 84th Raising Day commemorations of the Assam Regiment on Monday with a solemn ceremony held at the War Memorial in Treasury Square, Aizawl. The event paid homage to the regiment’s heroic legacy, particularly its critical role in the Battle of Kohima during World War II.
Governor Singh, a decorated former Army Chief known for his service in counterinsurgency operations in the Northeast, laid a wreath at the memorial to honor soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. His presence symbolized deep respect for the regiment’s enduring contribution to national defense and the inspiration it continues to provide.
Following the tribute, a tea gathering was held at the Assam Rifles Ground where the governor interacted with ex-servicemen and senior officers. The informal session emphasized camaraderie and offered a moment of reflection on the regiment’s journey and its continuing relevance in India’s military tradition.
The Assam Regiment, established in 1941, gained national prominence during the Burma Campaign of World War II. Its fierce stand during the Battle of Kohima in 1944 is remembered as a turning point that halted the Japanese advance into India. Despite sustaining significant losses, the regiment’s determination in the face of overwhelming odds earned it a legendary status.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Brigadier Pushpendar Sorayan, Deputy Inspector General of HQ 23 Sector Assam Rifles, and Padma Shri awardee Hav Lalbiakthanga, president of the World War II Veterans’ Association. Their presence added historical and emotional depth to the celebrations.
Mizoram has recently intensified its support for veterans through progressive welfare initiatives. Since 2020, the state has increased funding for ex-servicemen by 15% and introduced policies to ease their transition into civilian life. These include educational and job concessions, and exemptions from specific qualification requirements for veterans who have served for over three years.
The Raising Day celebration not only honored the Assam Regiment’s past but also reaffirmed Mizoram’s commitment to the welfare of its veterans, ensuring that the sacrifices of the regiment’s heroes remain remembered and respected.
A heart-wrenching scene unfolded in Rajasthan’s Jaipur as Lieutenant Colonel Deepika Chauhan bid a tearful farewell to her husband, Lt Col (Retd) Rajveer Singh Chauhan, who died in a tragic helicopter crash near Kedarnath on June 15. The funeral took place with full military honors as friends, family, and dignitaries gathered to pay their respects.
Wearing her Army uniform, Lt Col Deepika Chauhan was seen weeping beside her husband’s coffin, later leading the funeral procession while carrying his photograph. The former Army officer was piloting a Bell 407 helicopter operated by Aryan Aviation when it crashed near Gaurikund in Rudraprayag district during a routine Kedarnath-to-Guptkashi flight. The crash claimed the lives of seven people, including a two-year-old child.
#WATCH | Jaipur, Rajasthan: Lt Colonel Deepika Chauhan bids a tearful goodbye to her husband, Lt Colonel Rajveer Singh Chauhan (Retd), who was the pilot of the helicopter that crashed in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, on June 15.
Rajasthan Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, along with several other political leaders and military veterans, attended the solemn event, underscoring the gravity of the loss.
Lt Col (Retd) Rajveer Chauhan had served the Indian Army with distinction for 15 years before transitioning to civil aviation. He joined Aryan Aviation Pvt. Ltd. in October 2024 and had accumulated over 2,000 hours of flying experience. According to his LinkedIn profile, Chauhan played a significant role in planning and executing flight missions across challenging terrains, with contributions that extended beyond aviation into rural development and public welfare.
#WATCH | Jaipur, Rajasthan: Lt Colonel Rajveer Singh Chauhan (Retd) was one of the seven people who died in a helicopter crash in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand on June 15.
Visuals from Shastri Nagar as his wife, Lt Colonel Deepika Chauhan, Rajasthan Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore… pic.twitter.com/iudUvCoHhM
The couple’s story was one of endurance and hope. They became parents just four months ago after 14 years of marriage, a detail that added to the emotional weight of the loss.
Following the crash, the Uttarakhand government suspended all helicopter operations on the Char Dham Yatra route for two days as a precaution. A high-level investigation into the cause of the crash has also been ordered.
The nation mourns the loss of a committed officer whose legacy is marked by service, sacrifice, and devotion—both in uniform and beyond.
Lieutenant General Gambhir Singh, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Gajraj Corps, undertook a comprehensive visit to high-altitude forward areas within the Corps Zone to assess operational preparedness and oversee ongoing training activities. The inspection focused on locations situated above 15,000 feet, reinforcing the Indian Army’s sustained emphasis on readiness in some of the country’s most demanding terrain.
During the visit, Lt Gen Singh interacted extensively with troops deployed in these challenging environments, commending their resilience, discipline, and ability to adapt to extreme weather and rugged geography. According to a 2023 study in the Journal of Military Medicine, specialized acclimatization techniques—now integral to training regimens—have led to a 40 percent drop in altitude-related illnesses among soldiers operating in these zones.
The Gajraj Corps holds significant strategic responsibility for India’s northeastern frontier along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. The region has been under heightened military focus following the 2020 border clashes. A 2021 RAND Corporation report had earlier highlighted the tactical importance of this region, citing a steady increase in troop strength and the introduction of more frequent, terrain-specific operational cycles.
A key feature of the visit was the evaluation of domestically developed drone technologies being tested by the Gajraj Corps. These UAV systems, produced under indigenous innovation initiatives, reflect the Indian Army’s push for self-reliance and modernization in line with evolving threats.
Lt Gen Singh also acknowledged the dual role played by the Army in both defense and community engagement. He cited the successful execution of the Spiti Marathon 2024 in Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul-Spiti region as an example of how military readiness can also promote public participation. The marathon, which included a 77-km endurance run and shorter community events, showcased the Army’s physical capabilities in high-altitude environments while strengthening civil-military relations.
Concluding his visit, Lt Gen Singh urged all personnel to continue exemplifying excellence and to uphold the ethos of “Fight Forward, Fight Aggressive,” reaffirming the Army’s steadfast commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty under all conditions.
