In a proactive response to rising concerns over the safety of military personnel, the Indian Army has launched a dedicated helpline service designed to assist soldiers and veterans around the clock. This initiative, implemented after a disturbing custodial assault incident involving an Army officer and his fiancée in Odisha, aims to provide immediate support in emergencies or assault situations.
The helpline, identified by the number 155306, will be manned by trained Military Police personnel, ensuring that both male and female officers are available to address incoming calls. One of the key features of this service is the recording of all calls, which will facilitate efficient follow-up for every case reported. The operational framework of the helpline includes integrated coordination with provost units and relevant civil authorities, enabling quick response times throughout the country.
The system is designed to be accessible without requiring any dialing prefix from the caller, making it convenient for users across all major telecom providers. Upon calling, individuals are expected to relay their service details along with a brief account of the incident in question. The helpdesk will then mobilize the nearest Provost Police unit to respond accordingly. To enhance accountability, call management software will be employed to track the progress of reported cases, ensuring that every incident is followed up.
Importantly, the helpline is focused exclusively on emergency situations, explicitly excluding non-crisis issues like land disputes or interpersonal conflicts, such as marital disputes. This clear delineation is intended to streamline the helpline’s operations and prioritize the most critical incidents.
The establishment of this helpline reflects the Army’s ongoing commitment to bolster support and security for its members in light of growing incidents of violence against military personnel. The recent custodial assault that sparked this initiative occurred on September 14 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, where the officer and his fiancée were reportedly ambushed by a group of miscreants. Following the incident, which raised significant concerns within the Army, the case is now being handled by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) as part of an overarching effort to address such incidents effectively.
In a significant gesture of appreciation, Governor Arif Mohammed Khan visited the Pangode Military Station in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday, where a special event was held to honor the valiant soldiers of the Indian Army for their dedicated service to the people of Kerala. The event, aptly named ‘Veer Vachan Vandan,’ which translates to ‘Brave Soldier,’ celebrated both the commitment and the sacrifices made by these servicemen, symbolizing their oath and salute to the motherland.
During the ceremony, Governor Khan presented the prestigious Governor’s citation to the 2nd Battalion of the Madras Regiment, recognized for their exemplary contributions. The citation was received by Colonel Avinash Kumar Singh, the Commanding Officer, along with Subedar Major Selven. In addition to the battalion’s recognition, 16 officers stationed at Pangode were individually felicitated for their remarkable service across various fields.
A defense spokesperson noted the crucial role that the Indian Army has played in providing hope during times of crisis, whether responding to natural disasters or addressing internal security challenges. Their efforts, particularly in rescuing citizens during calamities such as the severe landslides in Wayanad, have cemented their reputation as pillars of strength and reliability within the community.
Brigadier Salil M.P., the Station Commander of Pangode Military Station, was also in attendance, alongside other serving personnel. The ceremony not only celebrated the bravery and dedication of the soldiers but also reinforced the bond between the Indian Army and the local populace, showcasing the deep respect and admiration that the people of Kerala have for their armed forces.
The French Army is in the process of evaluating the Indian Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) to address its artillery requirements, as confirmed by a senior officer during a recent visit to India. Brigadier General Stephane Richou highlighted the need for an advanced artillery system, indicating that the Pinaka is among various global options being considered to replace the aging unitary rocket launchers (LRU) currently in service.
Currently, the French military operates nine LRUs, which were first acquired over a decade ago. However, these systems are expected to surpass their operational lifespan by 2027, prompting the need for upgrades. France aims to procure ten new launcher systems by the year 2030, followed by an additional thirteen by 2035. While there is a preference for developing a sovereign system, the option of procuring an off-the-shelf foreign system remains open.
In response to this requirement, two French consortiums, led by MBDA and Thales, have participated in the initiative to provide suitable replacements. Additionally, the American-made M142 HIMARS and the Israeli PULS systems are also under consideration as potential purchases.
The evaluation of the Pinaka system marks a significant step in enhancing military cooperation between France and India. Brigadier General Richou emphasized that this collaboration goes beyond mere business interests, signifying a shared vision and commitment towards a unified future in defense partnerships.
The Pinaka MBRL itself was developed in India as a successor to the Soviet-origin Grad system during the late 1980s to early 1990s. It stands out as one of India’s successful defense export ventures, with ten Pinaka regiments having been operational within the Indian Army since the year 2000. The initial variant, the Pinaka MK1, boasts a range of approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles). Currently, an upgraded MK2 version is undergoing user trials, extending its range to 75 kilometers (46 miles). The Indian government has also greenlit the development of two additional Pinaka variants, which will feature ranges of 120 kilometers (74 miles) and an impressive 300 kilometers (186 miles), enhancing India’s artillery capabilities further on the global stage.
In a ceremony highlighting the dedication and resilience of the Armed Forces’ medical community, the book “Care during COVID Pandemic: A Military Dental Hospital Commandant’s Diary” was formally presented to Surg Vice Adm Arti Sarin, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (#DGAFMS). The presentation was made by Maj Gen B Jayan, Commandant, CMDC (Eastern Command), in the esteemed presence of Lt Gen Vineet Sharma, Director General Dental Services (#DGDS) and Colonel Commandant of the Army Dental Corps.
Chronicling Resilience During a Global Crisis
The book is a poignant narrative documenting the unwavering commitment, innovative strategies, and adaptive measures undertaken by a large specialty dental facility of the Armed Forces during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. It captures:
The resilience of military healthcare professionals in ensuring patient care and safety.
The innovation in integrating public health measures into dental and specialty care.
The commitment to maintaining operational readiness while prioritizing the well-being of patients and personnel.
A Testament to Military Medical Excellence
The diary serves as a testament to the Armed Forces’ ability to adapt and excel in the face of a global crisis. It not only highlights the pivotal role of military dental services in safeguarding health during the pandemic but also underscores their contribution to the broader public health framework.
Leadership Acknowledgment
Receiving the book, Surg Vice Adm Arti Sarin praised the efforts of the Armed Forces’ medical and dental teams, commending their dedication to duty and the innovative measures implemented during a time of immense global uncertainty. Lt Gen Vineet Sharma also expressed pride in the Army Dental Corps’ efforts, emphasizing the importance of such documentation for future learning and preparedness.
This publication stands as a valuable resource and an inspiration for healthcare providers, shedding light on the unique challenges faced and overcome by military healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a reflection of the Armed Forces’ enduring commitment to excellence in both patient care and public health integration.
Army Law College (ALC), Pune, held its prestigious Graduation and Award Ceremony, celebrating the remarkable achievements of the Classes of 2023 and 2024. The event was graced by two esteemed dignitaries—Hon’ble Justice Dr. Neela Gokhale of the Bombay High Court as the Chief Guest and Hon’ble Prof. Dr. Suresh Gosavi, Vice-Chancellor of Savitribai Phule Pune University, as the Guest of Honour.
Recognizing Excellence
The ceremony witnessed the felicitation of several distinguished students, with Miss Deah Kapoor emerging as a standout achiever. Her exceptional accomplishments earned her three top honors:
These accolades symbolize her unparalleled academic achievements and holistic excellence, making her an inspiration for her peers and future graduates.
A Rising Star in Legal Education
Established just six years ago, Army Law College, Pune, has quickly distinguished itself as a leading institution in legal education, particularly among regional law colleges affiliated with Savitribai Phule Pune University. The college’s picturesque 13-acre campus near Lonavala provides a serene and conducive environment for academic and personal growth.
ALC offers two integrated 5-year law programs—BBA, LL.B and BA, LL.B—designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills for a successful career in law. The institution’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its growing reputation for producing well-rounded, competent legal professionals.
A Milestone Celebration
The Graduation and Award Ceremony not only marked an important milestone for the graduating students but also reinforced ALC’s dedication to fostering academic brilliance and leadership. The presence of distinguished guests and the recognition of outstanding students like Miss Kapoor underscored the college’s commitment to shaping the future of legal education in India.
As ALC continues to build on its achievements, it stands poised to make even greater contributions to the field of law and the broader academic landscape.
Military personnel are known for their well-groomed, short haircuts that project an image of professionalism, discipline, and order. The different types of army hairstyles have been designed with functionality in mind, and each style serves a specific purpose. In this article, we will explore the most common types of army hairstyles.
Army Hair Cutting Style
Army hair-cutting style refers to the specific hairstyles that are required for military personnel. These styles are designed to be low maintenance and practical, as well as project a professional and disciplined appearance.
The basic guidelines for army hair-cutting style vary depending on the military branch and the specific job requirements. However, there are certain characteristics that are common to most military haircuts:
Short length: Most army haircuts are short, with the hair on the sides and back of the head clipped close to the scalp. The hair on top of the head is usually slightly longer but still relatively short.
Tapered sides and back: The hair is usually tapered, meaning that it gradually gets shorter as it approaches the neckline and sideburns. This creates a neat and uniform appearance.
No bangs: Most army haircuts do not include bangs or a fringe, as this can interfere with vision and get in the way of hats or helmets.
No extreme styles: Military haircuts should be conservative and practical, avoiding any extreme styles or colors that might be distracting or unprofessional.
The high and tight is one of the most popular Indian army hair styles, and it is characterized by a closely cropped cut on the sides and back of the head. The hair on top is usually only a few inches long and is cut in a tapered fashion. This style is ideal for military personnel who are frequently exposed to harsh conditions as it is easy to maintain and does not require much styling.
2. Crew Cut
The crew cut is similar to the high and tight, but it is slightly longer on the top. It is a classic military hairstyle that has been in fashion since World War II. The hair is typically cut to a uniform length of around an inch and is tapered on the sides and back. The crew cut is also low maintenance and requires little styling.
3. Buzz Cut
The buzz cut is the shortest of all army hair styles, and it is characterized by hair that is shaved to the same length all over the head. The buzz cut is popular because it is very low maintenance, and it is ideal for military personnel who are frequently exposed to harsh environments. This hairstyle is also commonly used by cadets and Indian army special forces operatives during training.
4. Regulation Cut
The regulation cut is a style that is commonly used in the Indian Army. It is similar to the crew cut, but it is slightly longer on the top. The hair on top is usually cut to a length of around two inches and is tapered on the sides and back. The regulation cut is ideal for military personnel who need to maintain a professional appearance while in uniform.
5. Ivy League
The Ivy League is a style that is similar to a crew cut but is slightly longer on the top. The hair is typically tapered on the sides and back, and the hair on top is usually around two to three inches long. The Ivy League is a classic hairstyle that is often seen in military academies.
6. Side Part
The side part is a classic hairstyle that has been used in the military for many years. It is characterized by a part that is shaved into the hair on one side of the head, and the hair on top is usually around two to three inches long. The side part is a versatile hairstyle that can be styled in different ways to suit the individual.
7. Flat Top
The flat top is a style that is characterized by a flat, horizontal top that is usually about an inch or two long. The hair on the sides and back is cut short, and the top is tapered to create a flat surface. The flat top is a popular hairstyle among military personnel and is often used in the US Air Force.
In conclusion, the different types of army hairstyles have been designed to serve specific purposes. They are all low maintenance and easy to maintain, which makes them ideal for military personnel who are frequently exposed to harsh conditions. These hairstyles also project an image of professionalism, discipline, and order, which is important for military personnel.
Which is the hairstyle of the Indian army
The standard haircut for the Indian Army is a very short buzz cut, with the hair on the sides and back of the head shaved to the scalp and the hair on top trimmed to a short length.
India’s inaugural Defence Space Exercise, ‘Antariksha Abhyas 2024,’ successfully concluded today after three days of intense discussions, strategic planning, and knowledge sharing. Held from November 11-13, this groundbreaking event marked a historic step towards strengthening India’s capabilities in space operations, safety, and security.
The event culminated with an inspiring address by Air Vice Marshal Pawan Kumar, Director General of the Defence Space Agency (DG DSA). In his speech, Air Vice Marshal Kumar highlighted India’s steadfast commitment to ensuring secure, safe, and sustainable operations in space. He also praised the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in charting a progressive roadmap for India’s future in the space domain.
“Antariksha Abhyas is a testament to our nation’s determination to safeguard its interests in the final frontier. Together, we will harness the power of space technology to secure a brighter, safer future for India,” said Air Vice Marshal Kumar.
The exercise featured an impressive lineup of speakers from prominent organizations, including the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) under the Ministry of Defence. Key topics addressed included:
Space Safety and Security: Strategies to safeguard critical assets in space and mitigate risks from debris and potential conflicts.
International Space Laws: Insights into global legal frameworks governing space operations and India’s role in shaping their evolution.
Technological Advancements: DRDO and ISRO showcased cutting-edge technologies and innovations that will shape the future of space exploration and defense.
‘Antariksha Abhyas’ has laid the foundation for India’s integrated approach to space as a critical domain of defense. It emphasized the need for collaboration among military, scientific, and diplomatic communities to address the unique challenges posed by the space environment.
The exercise is poised to serve as a blueprint for future initiatives aimed at bolstering India’s strategic edge in space operations. By fostering dialogue and innovation, it underscores India’s resolve to navigate the complexities of the “final frontier” with resilience and foresight.
As the curtains close on this landmark event, India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in space defense is set on a secure and promising trajectory. Antariksha Abhyas 2024 is not just an exercise—it is a declaration of India’s readiness to embrace the challenges and opportunities of space in the 21st century.
General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), presided over the 35th Tri-Services Training Commanders’ Conference held at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi. The conference brought together senior commanders from the Indian Armed Forces and Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff to deliberate on key aspects of training and strategize for enhancing operational readiness and combat potential.
During the conference, detailed discussions were held on the optimal utilization of existing training infrastructure and resources, with an emphasis on leveraging the collective potential of training establishments across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The conference aimed to foster jointmanship and strengthen synergy between the three services to prepare for the evolving dynamics of modern warfare.
General Chauhan highlighted the importance of integrated training to ensure the Indian Armed Forces remain prepared to face unique security challenges and fight future wars effectively. Stressing the significance of tri-services synergy, he noted that joint training initiatives are critical to achieving supremacy in the evolving multi-domain battlespace.
“The evolution of training methodologies is imperative to equip our armed forces for the complexities of future warfare. We must ensure that our training establishments adopt innovative approaches to meet emerging security challenges while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism,” said General Chauhan.
The Tri-Services Training Commanders’ Conference serves as a platform for commanders from all three services to collaborate, share insights, and develop cohesive strategies for enhancing combat efficiency. The forum enables the Armed Forces to align their training objectives with operational goals, ensuring preparedness for both conventional and unconventional threats.
The 35th TSTCC reinforced the commitment of the Indian Armed Forces to achieve greater operational efficiency through unified efforts and enhanced training capabilities. The conference underscored the significance of fostering a joint operational mindset to address the complexities of modern warfare and maintain India’s strategic edge.
The discussions and resolutions from this landmark conference are expected to guide the evolution of training policies and practices across the tri-services, further strengthening India’s defense capabilities.
The US Army has announced a significant partnership with Florida-based Repkon, awarding the company a contract valued at $435 million to develop a new TNT factory in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. This factory will mark the first local source of TNT in the United States since the 1980s, a move that highlights the growing need for domestic production of critical military materials.
Senator Mitch McConnell made the announcement, emphasizing the importance of the project for both national security and local economic development. He noted that the National Security Supplemental bill he championed in the Senate has facilitated this vital investment, which will bolster the defense industrial base upon which the military relies. “I’m proud that this funding will establish this TNT capability right here in Kentucky, helping retool the defense industrial base our military relies on,” McConnell stated.
The facility will play a crucial role in producing trinitrotoluene (TNT), which is essential for ammunition and explosives used by the military, including the widely utilized 155-millimeter artillery shells. Congressman Brett Guthrie, who joined McConnell at the ceremony, affirmed that the project is expected to have a positive economic impact on the region, supporting over 50 local jobs.
The initiatives surrounding the new TNT production hub align with the Army’s strategy to reduce reliance on overseas suppliers, which has been a pressing concern in recent years. This development is seen as critical for accelerating timelines in replenishing munitions inventory and enhancing overall readiness for future military operations. The contract was facilitated through the Army’s Joint Program Executive Office Armaments & Ammunition (JPEO A&A) and the Contracting Command—Rock Island.
Douglas Bush, the US Army Acquisition, Logistics and Technology Assistant Secretary, remarked, “This is a major step forward in rebuilding our industrial base and ensuring we have the critical capabilities to support our warfighters.” He stressed that reshoring TNT production not only empowers the US to have greater control over its supply chain but also enhances security, especially amidst increasing global challenges.
Adding to this sentiment, JPEO A&A Officer Maj. Gen. John Reim highlighted the facility’s strategic importance, stating that it would support the mission to develop, procure, and deliver safe, reliable, and lethal munitions to both US joint forces and international partners. Reim noted the facility’s role in strengthening the defense industrial base and fostering future collaborations with allies.
As the Army moves forward with this historic initiative, the establishment of the TNT factory in Kentucky is positioned not only as a leap towards self-sufficiency in munitions production but also as a significant boost to local employment and economic growth in the Muhlenberg County area.
A 10-day National Integration Tour organized by the Indian Army for students from Palizi in East Kameng and the Rest of Arunachal Pradesh (RALP) concluded at the Chandimandir Military Station. This initiative, part of the Indian Army’s outreach program, aimed to inspire young minds to appreciate and embrace the rich diversity of India.
During their journey, a group comprising 20 students and two teachers explored significant cultural and historical landmarks in Delhi and Chandigarh. Among the highlights of the tour was a visit to the Western Command Heritage Museum, where students gained insights into the nation’s military history and heritage.
Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Command, personally interacted with the students. He shared his own experiences and reflections from his time in Arunachal Pradesh, emphasizing the importance of each individual’s role in the journey of nation-building. His motivational address left a profound impact on the students, underscoring the values of service, dedication, and unity.
The itinerary also featured visits to notable attractions like the Mahendra Pratap Zoological Park, the famous Rock Garden, and the picturesque Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh. Through these excursions, the students not only enjoyed recreational activities but also absorbed lessons on environmental conservation and cultural appreciation.
This National Integration Tour reflects the Indian Army’s ongoing commitment to fostering unity and understanding among the diverse populations of India. Through initiatives like Operation Sadbhavana, the Army aims to bridge gaps and create a sense of belonging in a multicultural society, reinforcing the ethos of teamwork and harmony among the youth of the nation.
