In a vibrant display of maritime prowess, President Droupadi Murmu attended the Navy Day celebrations held at Blu Flag Beach in Puri, Odisha, addressing a large crowd of spectators. The occasion was steeped in reverence, as the President invoked the blessings of Varuna, the deity associated with the ocean, for the nation’s development. She expressed confidence in the Indian Navy’s capacity to safeguard the country’s maritime interests, emphasizing that this security is critical for the vision of a developed India, or Viksit Bharat, by the year 2047.

During her speech, President Murmu highlighted the significant progress the Indian Navy is making with the construction of 63 ships in India, underscoring the force’s commitment to becoming an ‘Atmanirbhar’ (self-reliant) entity. This ambition serves as a source of inspiration for innovation, particularly in an era she referred to as ‘Mission Mode.’ Reflecting on the Navy’s history, she acknowledged its integral role in India’s victory during the 1971 war and celebrated the Navy’s ongoing efforts to empower women within its ranks.

The President praised the pioneering spirit of the Indian Navy, noting its status as the first branch of the armed forces to integrate women Agniveers into its team. She referred to the commendable journey of Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa, who are currently circumnavigating the globe aboard the INSV Tarini as part of ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama II,’ demonstrating the commitment to female representation and capability in naval operations.

The Navy Day event marked its inaugural celebration on the eastern coast and was characterized by an array of spectacular displays showcasing the Indian Navy’s capabilities. Among the highlights were the performances of Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers executing ground attack maneuvers, alongside a dramatic demonstration by Marine Commandos (MARCOS) showcasing their combat skills through a hostage rescue operation. Additionally, the advanced helicopter fleet, including the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) and Chetak helicopters, contributed to the striking display of operational readiness.

In a nod to cultural heritage, women cadets performed a traditional Horn Pipe Dance, and advanced fighter jets such as the MIG-29K and Hawk aircraft were seen asserting their aerial dominance in the skies. The operational demonstrations featured a total of 15 warships, 37 aircraft, and a submarine, executing breathtaking maneuvers that included aerial displays, Combat Free Falls, slithering operations by MARCOS, and live rocket firing by Navy vessels.

As the sun set, the celebrations transitioned to a grand finale with the Beating Retreat Ceremony performed by the Eastern Naval Command Band, culminating in a Continuity Drill and a stunning Drone and Laser show, which left a lasting impression on the attendees. The entire event served not only as a celebration of military might but also as a poignant reminder of the sacrifice and dedication of naval personnel who have served in defense of the nation.

In a remarkable incident that unfolded on Wednesday morning, an Indian Navy helicopter made an emergency landing in a paddy field near the Amarda airstrip in Mayurbhanj district due to a technical malfunction. The helicopter was participating in the Navy Day event when it encountered difficulties while flying over the Rasgovindapur block.

Eyewitness accounts describe the helicopter hovering in the air, creating a sense of alarm among local farmers who were tending to their fields at the time. As the aircraft descended unexpectedly into the paddy field, curious onlookers flocked to the scene, drawn by the unusual sight.

A representative from the Navy confirmed that all crew members aboard the helicopter emerged unscathed. The flight crew immediately began addressing the technical issue during what was a brief halt lasting about 15 to 20 minutes. Demonstrating skill and professionalism, they resolved the problem and prepared for takeoff once again.

After successfully remedying the malfunction, the helicopter resumed its scheduled flight without incident, leaving the gathered crowd in awe of both the aircraft’s capabilities and the swift response of the crew. While naval authorities acknowledged the occurrence of this emergency landing, they have chosen not to reveal specific details regarding the nature of the technical snag that necessitated the swift action.

Notably, this marks the first emergency landing of its kind in the region for the current year, highlighting the unpredictability faced by aviation crews and the importance of emergency preparedness. The incident not only showcases the operational challenges in aviation but also the commitment of the Indian Navy to ensure the safety of its personnel during unforeseen circumstances.

Kathmandu: Nepal’s Ministry of Defence has announced that General Ashok Raj Sigdel, the Chief of the Army Staff of the Nepali Army, is scheduled to visit India from December 11 to December 14, 2024. This visit marks an important event in the ongoing military relations between the two neighboring countries.

In an official press statement, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that during this visit, General Sigdel will be honored with the rank of Honorary General of the Indian Army by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu. The visit will include high-level meetings with key Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. These discussions are expected to further strengthen the longstanding ties between the two nations.

One of the highlights of General Sigdel’s itinerary is his participation as a Reviewing Officer at the passing-out parade of Officer Cadets at the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun. This involvement underscores the close military cooperation and shared traditions between Nepal and India.

Notably, General Sigdel’s upcoming visit follows the recent trip by the Indian Army Chief, General Upendra Dwivedi, who visited Nepal from November 20 to November 24. During his visit, General Dwivedi was also conferred the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army by the President of Nepal, continuing a tradition that has been in place for over seven decades. This mutual practice of conferring honorary titles began with General KM Cariappa, the first Indian Army Chief to receive such an honor in 1950.

General Dwivedi’s visit included meetings with top Nepalese leaders, including President Ramchandra Paudel and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The exchange of honorary General insignia between the Indian and Nepali Armies has contributed significantly to the bilateral ties, which are bolstered further by the ongoing collaboration through the Gurkha Regiment. Currently, over 30,000 Gurkha soldiers from Nepal serve in the Indian Army, reflecting the deep-rooted bond of friendship between the two nations.

Furthermore, the regular high-level exchanges between India and Nepal enhance the military and diplomatic relations, allowing leaders from both sides to review and strengthen their comprehensive partnership. As General Sigdel prepares for his visit, the anticipation surrounding this event highlights the significance of military diplomacy in fostering robust ties between Nepal and India.

In a troubling incident in Jammu and Kashmir, a soldier from the Territorial Army was shot in the leg by terrorists in the Tral area of Awantipora, Pulwama. The soldier, who was reportedly on leave and had returned home, sustained the injury during the attack. Following the shooting, he was swiftly transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Thankfully, reports indicate that his condition is stable.

Security forces responded promptly by cordoning off the area to conduct searches and mitigate any further threats. This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region, as violence continues to affect both military personnel and civilians alike.

Earlier on the same day, news emerged of a significant encounter in Ganderbal, where security forces eliminated a terrorist linked to the recent grisly killings of six workers and a doctor at a private housing camp. The terrorist, identified as Junaid Ahmed Bhat, was affiliated with the Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba. Bhat had a record of involvement in several attacks across the region, including incidents in Gagangir and surrounding areas. This operation was initiated as part of a cordon and search effort led by Jammu and Kashmir Police.

The recent spate of violence in Jammu and Kashmir has raised concerns about security and the safety of both military and civilian populations in the delicate and often volatile environment. Security forces remain on high alert as they continue to investigate these incidents and work to restore order in the region.

Visakhapatnam witnessed a poignant tribute to the Indian Navy as the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) held a wreath-laying ceremony at the Victory at Sea War Memorial on Wednesday, commemorating Navy Day 2024. The solemn event was presided over by Rear Admiral Chetan Chandegave, the Flag Officer Submarines, and attended by various dignitaries including district collector M.N. Harendhira Prasad, police commissioner Shankar Brata Bagchi, GVMC commissioner P. Sampath Kumar, metropolitan commissioner K.S. Viswanathan, and Rear Admiral T. Sudhakar (Retd), vice president of the Navy Foundation, Vizag chapter. Additionally, G. Satyanandam, the Zilla Sainik welfare officer, was present to honor the occasion.

Celebrated annually on December 4, Navy Day marks a significant milestone in Indian naval history, particularly commemorating the achievements of the Indian Navy during the 1971 War. This year, the celebrations are especially significant as they underscore Operation Trident, a key operation that involved a successful assault on Pakistan’s naval base in Karachi.

The theme for this year’s celebrations, “Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation,” reflects the Indian Navy’s ongoing commitment to elevate its capabilities through advanced technological innovations and self-reliance.

Meanwhile, the main celebrations were taking place in Puri, Odisha, where Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi welcomed President Draupadi Murmu as the chief guest. The event drew attention with a spectacular display of naval prowess, featuring over 15 warships and submarines, along with an impressive fleet of 40 aircraft. The celebrations also included demonstrations by elite marine commandos (MARCOS) and personnel from the Indian Army, showcasing the multifaceted strength of the Indian armed forces.

Traditional elements added a cultural richness to the event, highlighted by the Beating the Retreat ceremony. In a blend of tradition and technology, the celebrations were further embellished by an eye-catching drone and laser show, captivating the audiences and demonstrating the evolving nature of naval strength in a modern context.

An Indian Navy helicopter was compelled to execute an emergency landing on a farmland in the vicinity of Amarda village, situated within the Rasagobindapur Police Limits of Mayurbhanj district. This incident occurred due to a technical issue, according to Superintendent of Police (SP) Varun Guntupalli.

The helicopter was navigating through the area when the technical fault arose, leading to the emergency landing about five kilometers from an airstrip of historical significance dating back to the Second World War. Fortunately, the helicopter was able to continue its journey after a brief delay of approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The adept handling of the situation by the crew ensured that the helicopter was able to take off without any further complications.

Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) had previously granted permission for the development of the airstrip, which spans around 160.35 acres near Amarda Road in the district. The land designated for the airstrip is owned by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

This incident highlights the challenges posed by technical issues in aviation, yet the successful resolution also emphasizes the crew’s competency and the overall safety protocols in place to manage such emergencies.

Every year on December 4, India honors Indian Navy Day, a celebration rooted in the Navy’s successful operation against Karachi Port during the 1971 conflict. This day serves as a reminder of the significant role the Indian Navy plays in securing the nation’s maritime borders, inspiring many young individuals to pursue careers within its ranks.

Ranked as the seventh most powerful navy globally, the Indian Navy is recognized for providing diverse and fulfilling career opportunities. Aspiring naval officers have various pathways to enlist after completing their Class 12 education, facilitating entrance into one of the armed forces renowned for its commitment to upholding national security.

One primary route for aspiring naval personnel is the National Defence Academy (NDA) examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year. The NDA exam invites candidates aged between 16.5 and 19, who must have completed their Class 12 education with subjects in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. After successfully passing the written examination, candidates progress to the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, which assesses their suitability for officer training.

Alternatively, candidates can explore the 10+2 BTech Cadet Entry Scheme. This programme is tailored for those who achieve impressive scores in the JEE Main examination. Successful candidates embark on a rigorous four-year training regimen at the Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala, Kerala. Upon completion, they attain the rank of officer in the Navy, along with a BTech degree. Candidates wishing to pursue this route must have completed their Class 12 with at least 70% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, and must secure a qualifying rank in JEE Main to be considered for the SSB interview process.

Younger applicants also have the option to join the Navy through the Agniveer scheme, recently introduced by the central government. This entry pathway is open to candidates between the ages of 17.5 and 21 years who have achieved a minimum of 50% in their Class 12 examinations, specifically in Mathematics and Physics. Notably, this opportunity also extends to students currently appearing for their Class 12 exams, making it an accessible route for many.

Another avenue for entering the Indian Navy is through the Indian Navy Entrance Test (INET), designed for those seeking either a permanent or short service commission. The INET is held twice a year, and applicants can easily access the application process online via the official Indian Navy recruitment website. Following a successful performance on the written examination, candidates are invited to partake in the SSB interview, marking another critical step toward a career in the Navy.

In summary, Indian Navy Day not only commemorates a significant historical victory but also serves as an invitation for the youth of India to consider a future where they can serve their country on the high seas. With multiple pathways to enlistment, including the NDA exam, 10+2 BTech Cadet Entry Scheme, Agniveer, and INET opportunities, the Indian Navy continues to attract those eager to embark on a rewarding career in defense.