Chandigarh witnessed a significant visit by the Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, to the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) located in Shimla. During his visit, General Dwivedi was given an extensive briefing on various doctrinal elements and the institutionalized training protocols being employed across India’s numerous military training institutes.

The General praised the ongoing training initiatives at ARTRAC that are harnessing cutting-edge technological advancements. He highlighted the imperative of transforming the Indian Army into a Modern, Technology-Driven, Atmanirbhar (self-reliant), and Battle-Ready Force. This transformation aligns with the Army’s goal to enhance operational capabilities and adaptability in today’s complex defense landscape.

In his address to the personnel at ARTRAC, General Dwivedi urged all ranks to maintain their pursuit of excellence in training and operations. A key aspect of his visit included an interaction with the local veteran community from Himachal Pradesh, during which he recognized their contributions and sacrifices for the nation.

In related news, IIT Indore has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ARTRAC to promote advanced defense research and innovation. This collaboration aims to tackle pressing military challenges by leveraging emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and signal processing, further enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces.

Meanwhile, Kolkata recently hosted “Veer Gatha 2024,” an exhibition that showcased advanced military equipment and weaponry. Organized by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Education, the event was designed to provide students, NCC cadets, and dignitaries with insights into India’s military capabilities and advancements.

On a similar note, the Pangode military station in Thiruvananthapuram is preparing to honor exceptional soldiers of the Indian Army for their remarkable dedication and service to the citizens of Kerala. The ceremony, planned for Wednesday at the Cariappa Auditorium, will serve as an acknowledgment of these soldiers’ outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment to the nation.

In a significant development highlighting the longstanding military collaboration between India and Nepal, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi is preparing for a four-day visit to Nepal next week. This visit takes place ahead of Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli’s planned official trip to China next month, his first since taking office in July.

General Dwivedi’s upcoming trip underscores a century of shared history, strategic interests, and robust security cooperation between the two nations. Defence sources indicate that the visit is poised to enhance bilateral ties, paving the way for further collaborations on various fronts, including joint military exercises, training programs, and strategic discussions addressing regional and global security concerns.

Nepal has maintained a close relationship with India through consistent military training exchanges, visits, and efforts to modernize its defence capabilities. This partnership is highlighted by the ongoing defence modernization initiatives, which have already seen over 300 Nepali Army personnel trained in specialized fields such as counterinsurgency, leadership development, and peacekeeping within India this year. Notably, Indian Army personnel also participate in training courses in Nepal, fostering mutual military enhancement.

During his visit, General Dwivedi is expected to engage in extensive discussions with his Nepalese counterpart, General Ashok Raj Sigdel, as well as interact with top political leaders in the Himalayan nation. A crucial aspect of India-Nepal military cooperation lies in the annual Surya Kiran joint military exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability between the two armed forces. The next iteration of this pivotal exercise, which focuses on counterterrorism, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance, is scheduled for December 2024 in Nepal.

Additionally, the historical presence of a large population of Indian ex-servicemen in Nepal plays a significant role in fortifying the bonds between the two countries. General Dwivedi is also anticipated to visit the revered Muktinath Temple, which holds special significance as a place of pilgrimage and has recently been honored with the installation of ‘Bipin Bell’ in February 2023, commemorating India’s first Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat.

Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli’s recent rise to power, following a coalition formation between the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) and the Nepali Congress, adds an intriguing dimension to the geopolitical landscape. While Nepali prime ministers traditionally maintain close ties with India upon taking office, Oli’s upcoming visit to China has been interpreted as a move reflecting a pro-China stance, signifying a potentially shifting dynamic in regional alliances. The unfolding events will be closely monitored as India and Nepal work to solidify their historical military partnership amidst evolving geopolitical realities.

In a significant move to bridge the gap between academia and military needs, the Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE), representing the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) of the Indian Army, has entered into a comprehensive partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology, Indore (IIT Indore) through a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaborative effort is designed to enhance synergies in academic and research initiatives aimed at addressing pressing challenges faced by the military.

The MoU sets forth a strategic framework focused on addressing critical military problem definitions, promoting resource sharing, and driving innovation in key areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Communications, Signal Processing, and VLSI Technology. Lt Gen K H Gawas, the Commandant of MCTE, underscored the significance of this collaboration, stating that it is essential for aligning cutting-edge academic innovations with the evolving demands of modern warfare. He emphasized that this initiative would bolster the Indian Army’s technological preparedness on future battlefields, resonating with the government’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, which seeks to enhance self-reliance in defense technologies.

Similarly, Prof Suhas S Joshi, Director of IIT Indore, pointed out the invaluable opportunity this partnership provides to the academic community. By engaging directly with real-world military challenges, faculty and students can enrich their research efforts and develop practical, impactful solutions for national defense. This collaboration is expected to reaffirm the Indian Army’s leadership role in the integration of advanced technologies into defense applications, thus setting a new standard for military-academic partnerships in India.

The MoU outlines several critical components aimed at maximizing the benefits of this collaboration:

• Research Collaboration: Both institutions will work together to define and address Military Problem Definition Statements (PDS), ultimately developing solutions that are relevant and applicable in the field.

• Exchange Programs: Structured exchange initiatives for faculty and students will facilitate the sharing of expertise and knowledge between the military and academic circles.

• Joint Training Modules: The partnership will include the development of joint training modules and capsule courses tailored to meet the specific needs of both military personnel and academic participants.

• Access to Infrastructure: Collaborating entities will benefit from access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and laboratories, promoting advanced prototyping and research and development efforts.

This partnership not only highlights the importance of integrating innovative technologies into defense strategies but also serves as a model for future collaborations between the military and educational institutions, fostering a culture of innovation and shared learning for the betterment of national security.

Rajouri, India – In a commendable showcase of determination and talent, seven girls from the southern region of Pir Panjal have earned their spots on the Jammu and Kashmir state volleyball team, poised to compete at the national level. These young athletes, who underwent training under the mentorship of the Indian Army, have demonstrated outstanding skill and sportsmanship, marking a significant achievement not only for themselves but for their community.

The journey toward this achievement began on August 29, 2024, when the Indian Army implemented a volleyball coaching program in the Rajouri and Poonch districts, attracting 30 enthusiastic young girls eager to engage with the sport. With the assistance of experienced coaches from Jammu and Kashmir’s sports authorities, as well as physiotherapists, the Army developed a structured training module that emphasized fundamental skills, game strategies, and physical fitness.

The impact of this initiative has been remarkable. Nineteen girls advanced through the ranks to participate in district-level competitions across three age categories: U-14, U-17, and U-19. Their hard work and dedication paid off, as 15 of these talented players went on to represent Jammu Division in state-level trials. Ultimately, seven players were selected to represent Jammu and Kashmir at national tournaments, a commendable feat that includes three competing in the U-19 category, one in U-17, and three in U-14.

For many of these girls, stepping onto a volleyball court was a groundbreaking experience that challenged societal norms often restricting women’s involvement in sports. With strong support from the Indian Army’s program, they were provided with a platform to excel, fostering not only their athletic skills but also their confidence and leadership abilities.

One of the coaches associated with the program conveyed the broader significance of this achievement, stating, “This is not just about volleyball; it’s about showing the world what girls from Rajouri and Poonch can achieve when given the right opportunities.” The efforts have resonated across the local community, with parents and community members rallying behind the initiative, celebrating the girls’ accomplishments as a collective triumph for the region.

This inspiring success story underscores the transformative effect of dedicated mentorship and community support, highlighting the potential of young women in sports when barriers are broken and opportunities are created.

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi is set to embark on a significant four-day official visit to Nepal starting November 20. This trip aims to enhance the robust defense ties between India and Nepal, a relationship that has been marked by historical camaraderie and shared military heritage.

A key focus of General Dwivedi’s visit will be to address the ongoing recruitment issue surrounding Nepali Gorkhas in the Indian Army. Since the introduction of the Agnipath scheme in 2022, Nepal has halted the sending of its citizens to join the Indian forces. This decision has resulted in a notable shortfall of over 12,000 Nepali Gorkhas, particularly in the traditional Gorkha regiments, which are vital components of the Indian Army. From India’s side, efforts have been made to incentivize Nepal to send its Gorkha aspirants to join under the Agniveers program, which allows recruits to serve on a contractual basis for four years, with only a quarter allowed to transition to permanent roles.

The situation around Gorkha recruitment holds historical significance, as Gorkha soldiers have been integral to the Indian Army’s legacy since its inception, having previously served in the British Army. According to Major General Ashok Kumar (retired) from the Centre For Joint Warfare Studies, these soldiers have displayed extraordinary valor and sacrifice in numerous conflicts and counterterrorism operations.

General Dwivedi’s visit is viewed as an opportunity to break the deadlock on this recruitment issue. His leadership may help to find a solution beneficial for both nations, particularly as India seeks to absorb non-retained Agniveers into civilian roles, potentially encouraging the Nepali government to reconsider its stance.

The defense relationship between India and Nepal is further solidified by various joint training exercises and defense modernization initiatives. This year alone, over 300 Nepali Army personnel received crucial training in India across multiple disciplines including counterinsurgency and peacekeeping.

One notable aspect of this military collaboration is the annual Surya Kiran joint military exercise, focusing on counterterrorism, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance. The upcoming 18th edition of this exercise is set to take place in Nepal, aiming to enhance operational synergy between the two armed forces.

The bilateral defense cooperation has also seen India provide military equipment to Nepal, further solidifying this relationship. The ongoing dialogue through the Nepal-India Bilateral Consultative Group on Security Issues (NIBCGSI) has resulted in significant strides in fulfilling Nepal’s defense needs.

Another important facet of General Dwivedi’s visit will be the mutual honor extended to both countries’ military leaders, particularly the tradition of conferring honorary ranks of General, which symbolizes the deep-rooted respect and shared military legacy between India and Nepal.

Beyond military discussions, General Dwivedi is expected to connect with the large community of Indian ex-servicemen residing in Nepal, many of whom are engaged in improving education, healthcare, and rural development in the country.

As part of the visit, General Dwivedi is also likely to pay homage at the revered Muktinath Temple, a site of spiritual significance. This visit is particularly poignant given the late General Bipin Rawat’s expressed wish to visit the temple, leading to the installation of the ‘Bipin Bell’ in his memory last year.

Overall, General Dwivedi’s upcoming trip to Nepal represents a pivotal opportunity to strengthen bilateral defense ties, tackle sensitive recruitment issues, and reinforce the enduring relationship between the two nations.