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Army Colonel Assaulted by Govt Official Over LoC Fencing Project, Soldiers Retaliate

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A confrontation between a senior Army officer and a government official over the Line of Control (LoC) fencing project has triggered a wave of outrage on social media, particularly among military veterans and defence supporters. The incident allegedly involved the assault of Colonel Ankush Chaudhary, Commanding Officer of an engineer regiment, by Assistant Defence Estate Officer (ADEO) Triyam Singh.

Colonel Chaudhary, who was overseeing a critical LoC fencing initiative following a recent infiltration attack in Pahalgam, had reportedly approached the ADEO to obtain necessary approvals. The fencing project is part of enhanced border security measures in the region. When ADEO Triyam Singh refused to sign the essential board proceedings and approve the land-use documentation, Colonel Chaudhary personally visited Singh’s office to resolve the matter.

According to multiple reports, the meeting turned hostile when ADEO Singh allegedly assaulted the Army officer. In response, soldiers from the engineer regiment, loyal to their Commanding Officer, retaliated against the official. The altercation has ignited a broader conversation around the conduct of civil officials handling defence land matters and the challenges in executing urgent military infrastructure projects.

Veterans and serving personnel have rallied behind the soldiers and Colonel Chaudhary, with many highlighting the emotional and professional bond between commanding officers and their troops. Former Northern Army Commander Lt Gen (Retd) KJS Dhillon posted, “For the soldiers, CO is next only to God. Touching a CO has consequences. A CO has responsibility to protect his jawans and he will lay down his life doing so, and vice versa for the jawans.”

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The issue was made public by retired Army officer Sushil Singh Sheoran on social media platform X. Sheoran accused the Defence Estate Office (DEO) of corruption and obstructionism, stating, “The Defence Estate Office within the Ministry of Defence is known for its corruption and often tries to stall projects in exchange for bribes.”

While the Ministry of Defence has not issued an official statement yet, the incident has intensified calls for systemic reforms within the Defence Estate management system and better civil-military coordination in sensitive operational areas.

Meet Lieutenant Anni Nehra: Sword of Honour Winner at the Indian Military Academy

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Lieutenant Anni Nehra

On the bright morning of 14th June 2025, under the shadow of the iconic Chetwode Building at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, 21-year-old Anni Nehra from Rewari, Haryana, etched his name in history. Leading the parade with unmatched pride and precision, he was awarded the prestigious Sword of Honour — a symbol of excellence presented to the best all-round cadet of the Spring Term 2025.

Commissioned into the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment, Lieutenant Nehra also received the Silver Medal for securing the second position in the overall order of merit. The honours were a culmination of years of grit, perseverance, and a deep-rooted commitment to a proud family tradition of military service.

Lieutenant Anni Nehra

A Legacy Etched in Olive Green

Lieutenant Nehra is a third-generation soldier. His grandfather served in the 9 Jat Regiment, and his father, Devinder Nehra, retired as a Havildar from the 7 Jat Regiment. Inspired by tales of valour, discipline, and sacrifice shared at home, Anni grew up determined to don the uniform. “This award is not just mine, it belongs to my family, my instructors, and the values passed down through generations,” he said after receiving the honour, his voice resonating with humility and pride.

A Difficult Beginning: The Making of a Soldier

Anni Nehra’s journey was not devoid of hardship. As a young cadet at Rashtriya Military School, Belgaum, he grappled with the intensity of the military lifestyle. The physical rigour, emotional strain, and constant pressure once made him want to quit. He called home, unsure if he could go on.

But his father’s words changed everything. He encouraged Anni not to give up — to endure, adapt, and overcome. That turning point was pivotal. It instilled in him a fire that would guide him through the most challenging phases of his training and mould him into a leader.

NDA Years: From Cadet to Leader

In June 2021, Anni joined the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) as part of its 146th Course. Over the next three years, his transformation was remarkable. He earned the high responsibility of Battalion Cadet Captain (BCC) — a testament to his leadership qualities. At the NDA’s Passing Out Parade in May 2024, he was awarded the President’s Bronze Medal for standing third in the overall order of merit.

Each accolade was a reflection of his growth — from a boy battling doubt to a young man leading his peers with distinction.

IMA: Achieving the Pinnacle

After graduating from NDA, Anni joined IMA — the cradle of Indian Army leadership. His excellence continued to shine. He was appointed as Academy Cadet Adjutant (ACA), one of the most prestigious appointments at IMA, signifying complete trust in his discipline and leadership.

The Spring Term 2025 Passing Out Parade was a defining moment. Among 451 Gentlemen Cadets — including 32 from friendly foreign countries — it was Anni Nehra who was chosen to receive the Sword of Honour. The award, presented by Reviewing Officer Lieutenant General BKGM Lasantha Rodrigo of the Sri Lanka Army, recognised not just physical strength or academic excellence, but an unmatched all-round performance throughout training.

Anni

A Family’s Pride, A Nation’s Inspiration

Watching from the stands, his mother Suman Devi beamed with joy. “He grew up watching both his father and grandfather serve in the Army. That inspired him,” she said. Her younger son is currently a cadet at NDA and is expected to join IMA soon — further continuing the Nehra family’s proud service to the nation.

A Beacon for the Next Generation

Lieutenant Anni Nehra’s journey is not just about military honours; it is about the power of perseverance and the spirit of never giving up. From a struggling school cadet to the finest Gentleman Cadet of IMA’s Spring Term 2025, his story is a guiding light for every young Indian who dreams of wearing the uniform.

As he marches into the Indian Army, sword gleaming on his belt and legacy in his heart, Lieutenant Nehra carries with him the hopes of a grateful nation and the torch for those yet to follow.

Lieutenant Anni Nehra — may your courage inspire, your story lead, and your sword shine forever.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Likely to Visit China This Month

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Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to travel to China later this month to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) defence ministers’ meeting in Qingdao, a major coastal city in China’s Shandong Province. This visit, if confirmed, would mark the first ministerial-level engagement between India and China since relations began improving after the October 2024 agreement to de-escalate tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The SCO, which is being chaired by China this year, is a key regional grouping comprising 10 countries, including India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, and several Central Asian nations. The upcoming meeting will focus on regional security cooperation, counter-terrorism, and connectivity.

Rajnath Singh last met his Chinese counterpart, Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun, on the sidelines of the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Vientiane, Laos. That meeting followed the historic October 2024 agreement that resumed coordinated patrolling and troop disengagement in eastern Ladakh, ending a prolonged military standoff since the 2020 Galwan clash.

The visit is seen as part of a broader effort by both sides to restore normalcy in bilateral relations. The thaw began after a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. Since then, several confidence-building measures have been initiated, including the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, data sharing on transboundary rivers, restoration of direct air connectivity, and steps toward easing visa procedures and boosting cultural exchanges.

India has also reiterated its support for China’s SCO presidency, as emphasized during recent discussions in New Delhi between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong.

In addition to this anticipated visit, other high-level interactions have been taking place. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval visited China in December 2024 for the 23rd Special Representatives Meeting, and the Indian Foreign Secretary visited Beijing in January 2025. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is also expected to visit India later this year for the 24th round of SR-level talks.

In a further sign of improving ties, Chinese President Xi Jinping recently extended condolences to Indian leaders following the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad.

British F-35 Fighter Jet Makes Emergency Landing in Thiruvananthapuram Due to Fuel Shortage

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A British F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jet made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on Saturday night after experiencing a critical fuel shortage mid-flight. The jet, one of the most advanced in the Royal Air Force fleet, was reportedly en route over international airspace when it was forced to divert to the Indian airport.

Airport officials confirmed that the aircraft landed safely without incident and was guided to a secure bay. As of Sunday morning, the jet remains stationed at the airport, awaiting necessary clearance from Indian central authorities to proceed with refueling and resume its journey.

Sources at the airport indicated that standard emergency protocols were followed, and coordination between Indian civil aviation and military authorities ensured a swift response to the unplanned landing. No damage or injuries were reported.

The incident has drawn attention due to the presence of a fifth-generation fighter jet at a civilian airport, prompting heightened security measures around the site. While details about the aircraft’s mission and route remain classified, defense analysts suggest the situation underscores the challenges involved in long-distance deployment of such high-performance aircraft.

Diplomatic communication between the UK and India is ongoing, with both sides expected to resolve operational clearances promptly. The British High Commission in New Delhi has not issued a formal statement as of yet.

Iranian Missiles Strike Adani Owned Haifa Port and Oil Refinery

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In a major escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, Iranian ballistic missiles struck Israel’s Haifa port and an adjacent oil refinery late Saturday night, causing significant disruption to the country’s critical infrastructure. The strike is being seen as a direct response to recent Israeli attacks on Iranian interests, including an airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus.

Also Read: Adani-Operated Haifa Port Remains Unharmed Amid Iran’s Missile Strikes on Israel

Haifa port, a strategic maritime gateway that handles more than 30 percent of Israel’s imports, is majority-owned by India’s Adani Ports, which holds a 70 percent stake. The attack has raised alarms in international trade circles, particularly about potential disruptions to global shipping routes and maritime commerce.

This latest attack comes amid a sharp escalation in direct confrontations between Israel and Iran. Over the past few weeks, both nations have engaged in tit-for-tat military actions, resulting in mounting casualties. At least seven Israeli civilians have reportedly been killed and over 200 injured in recent hostilities, further inflaming public fears and regional tensions.

Security analysts warn that the targeting of Haifa could trigger broader repercussions for global energy markets, especially if the conflict disrupts maritime routes or oil supplies in the wider region. The port’s partial foreign ownership and its strategic importance to India and other international stakeholders add a global dimension to the crisis.

As the situation continues to evolve, there are increasing calls from world powers for immediate de-escalation. However, both Tehran and Tel Aviv appear to be weighing their next moves carefully, with military reinforcements and diplomatic consultations underway. The risk of a wider regional conflict remains high.

CDS 2 2024 Toppers SSB + Written Exam Marks

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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the marks for the candidates who participated in the Combined Defence Services Examination (II) of 2024. Aspirants who appeared for the examination can now access and download their marks through the official UPSC website at upsc.gov.in, marking a significant step in the commission’s transparent evaluation process.

Also Read: CDS 2 2024 Official Cut Off Marks For IMA, INA, AFA and OTA

In a commendable showcase of talent and preparation, a total of 64 aspirants have been recommended for the Officers Training Academy (Women), while 510 candidates have made their mark for the Officers Training Academy (Men). The results further highlight the success of candidates across various branches of the Indian armed forces, with 37 individuals receiving recommendations for the Indian Air Force, 89 for the Indian Naval Academy, and 223 for the Indian Military Academy, showcasing a wide range of skills and competencies.

Aditya Kumar emerged as a consistent performer, topping both IMA scoring 305 out of 600 marks and OTA Men with 222 out of 400 marks.

In INA, a rare tie occurred where three candidates—Siddharth M, Utkrisst Shankar, and Varade Tejas Deelip—secured 279 out of 600 marks each. This three-way tie at the top highlights how competitive this year’s batch has been. Notably, despite having the same score, their birth dates vary, which could have been used as a tie-breaker depending on institutional policy.

In AFA, Tanish Goyal claimed the top position in OTA Women with 292 out of 600 marks, showcasing strong performance and placing himself comfortably above his peers in that list.

In OTA Women, Annu stood out by topping with 217 out of 400 marks. Her score reflects both academic competence and performance in the selection process, placing her at the forefront among female aspirants.

Overall, these results reflect a diverse pool of high-performing candidates, with Aditya Kumar notably securing top ranks in two separate categories, and a rare instance of a three-way tie showcasing the intensity of competition.

IMA Toppers

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Here is the list of top 10 candidates:

SR. NOROLL NONAMEWRITTEN (300)SSB (300)TOTAL (600)
10808079ADITYA KUMAR161144305
20804941NISHANT KUMAR149152301
31102398VIPUL BUDANIA161132293
48100213TANISH GOYAL152140292
50811340HARSHDEEP SINGH145146291
66100256NAVNEET BHATT148141289
78400161VIKAS ASWAL161128289
86101264ABHAY TIWARI134153287
98400057ANKIT145142287
107901686LALIT SIKARWAR148138286

INA Toppers

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Here is the list of top 10 candidates:

SR. NOROLL NONAMEWRITTEN (300)SSB (300)TOTAL (600)
15700291SIDDHARTH M136143279
20100999UTKRISST SHANKAR132147279
37800523VARADE TEJAS DEELIP151128279
46600513HARSHWARDHAN DIXIT132145277
50601315MAINAK GHOSH149126275
66602941SHUBHAM SINGH119153272
71200647SHIVAM KUMAR145127272
86601445JADHAV PRASAD SANJAY125145270
91001182VALLURI AGASTHYA129141270
101103716JAI PRAKASH ANAND116154270

AFA Toppers

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Here is the list of top 10 candidates:

SR. NOROLL NONAMEWRITTEN (300)SSB (300)TOTAL (600)
18100213TANISH GOYAL152140292
26100256NAVNEET BHATT148141289
38400057ANKIT145142287
47901686LALIT SIKARWAR148138286
51403258SHUBHAM SINGH154126280
65700291SIDDHARTH M136143279
70100999UTKRISST SHANKAR132147279
87800523VARADE TEJAS DEELIP151128279
96600513HARSHWARDHAN DIXIT132145277
100601315MAINAK GHOSH149126275

OTA (Men) Toppers

OTA Chennai

Here is the list of top 10 candiadtes:

SR. NOROLL NONAMEWRITTEN (200)SSB (200)FINAL TOTAL (400)
10808079ADITYA KUMAR12696222
20817892NAVEEN11794211
33505064SAGAR SWAMI12384207
40805947ABHISHEK TIWARI10998207
55902094ARPIT KAUSHIK11194205
60200920DHEERENDRA SINGH11095205
70809333RAJ KAMAL11887205
81404081MAYANK SHARMA99104203
91103435HITESH RAJWANI99103202
101403258SHUBHAM SINGH11884202

OTA (Women) Toppers

Here is the list of top 10 candidates:

SR. NOROLL NONAMEWRITTEN (200)SSB (200)FINAL TOTAL (400)
10824416ANNU12889217
23402948MRIGU SAMBYAL106106212
30814867HARSHITA10799206
47000834JASMINE KAUR10891199
55200771SHIVANI RATHORE9899197
63505138STANZIN TSANGYANG9997196
70819452VAISHALI9599194
83505814DIKSHA9598193
96001362RITIKA DUBEY10587192
100816185SAUMYA KHATRI87104191

Conclusion

The UPSC CDS II exam, held on September 1, 2024, serves as a critical gateway for admission into 459 vacancies across various prestigious Indian military institutes. The examination is part of a rigorous selection process that includes both a written test and an interview for intelligence and personality assessment, conducted at one of the Services Selection Centres. This comprehensive process is designed to select qualified individuals aspiring to serve in the Indian military, ensuring a thorough evaluation of their intellectual and personality traits for roles in the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Indian Air Force Academy.

Israeli Strikes Cripple Key Iranian Nuclear Facility, IAEA Confirms

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Israeli airstrikes have inflicted critical damage on a major Iranian nuclear facility, significantly disrupting the country’s uranium enrichment process, according to a new assessment by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The strikes targeted Iran’s uranium-conversion facility in Isfahan, located roughly 400 kilometers south of Tehran.

The Isfahan site is essential to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, as it is the only facility in the country capable of converting raw uranium into feedstock for centrifuges. Without this capability, Iran’s ability to enrich additional uranium is effectively frozen, despite its existing stockpile. The IAEA report suggests the strikes could set back Iran’s fuel cycle operations by several months.

“If you interrupt that piece of the flow-sheet, the fuel cycle doesn’t work anymore,” said Robert Kelley, a former IAEA inspector and US nuclear engineer. He added that unless Iran has backup systems in place, it may take considerable time and resources to restore functionality.

The IAEA further confirmed that while Israel managed to destroy above-ground facilities at Iran’s primary enrichment site in Natanz, the heavily fortified underground sections remained intact. However, experts caution that extended military operations may prompt Iran to deepen its nuclear activities underground, potentially shutting out international inspectors.

The strikes also resulted in the deaths of nine senior Iranian nuclear scientists, delivering a serious blow to Tehran’s technical capabilities. “It’s going to make it very difficult for Iran to reconstitute the program to the level that it was at prior to these attacks,” said Suzanne Maloney of the Brookings Institution.

Iran retaliated over the weekend with hundreds of ballistic missiles and drone strikes targeting Israeli cities, heightening fears of a broader regional conflict.

Kelsey Davenport of the Arms Control Association warned that the attacks might hinder the IAEA’s ability to monitor Iran’s atomic program and could lead to the diversion of nuclear material to covert locations. With around 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium on hand, experts say Iran possesses enough material for multiple weapons if it chooses to exit the Non-Proliferation Treaty and expel inspectors.

The full strategic fallout from Israel’s strikes remains uncertain, but the damage to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and the deaths of key personnel mark a significant shift in the region’s security dynamics.

UK Deploys Additional Fighter Jets to Middle East Amid Escalating Iran-Israel Tensions

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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK is deploying additional military assets, including fighter jets, to the Middle East to support regional stability as tensions between Iran and Israel escalate. The statement came as Starmer was en route to the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Canada.

The move follows a dramatic surge in hostilities after Israel launched a large-scale air offensive on Friday, targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, senior military commanders, and scientists. In response, Iran retaliated with missile strikes, intensifying fears of a broader regional conflict.

“We are moving assets to the region, including jets, and that is for contingency support in the region,” Prime Minister Starmer told reporters traveling with him. Britain already maintains a military presence in the Middle East as part of its ongoing operations to counter threats in Iraq and Syria.

According to a spokesperson for the prime minister, deployment preparations began early Friday morning after intelligence indicated a rapidly deteriorating security situation in the region. The UK has since sent additional refuelling aircraft from its home bases, and more fighter jets are expected to be dispatched.

The redeployment underscores growing Western concern over the unfolding crisis and signals London’s commitment to safeguarding allied interests and deterring further escalation in the Middle East.

US Diverts Anti-Drone Systems from Ukraine to Middle East Amid Rising Threats

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In a major shift in American defense priorities, the United States has confirmed the transfer of key anti-drone systems from Ukraine to the Middle East. The move was officially acknowledged by U.S. Secretary of Defense Peter Hegseth during an interview with Fox News, where he defended the decision as necessary for safeguarding American personnel in a volatile region.

“I was at hearings in Congress all week. And I was asked: ‘Did you really transfer anti-UAV systems from Ukraine to the Middle East?’ I answered: ‘Yes, we did,’” said Hegseth. He emphasized that protecting American interests globally has become increasingly complex in the face of evolving threats. “Small systems can pose a serious danger. We are as ready as possible. The war is really changing right before our eyes — equipment, methods. It’s scary. Yes, it’s scary. But we have the right people on the ground,” he added.

The Pentagon’s decision comes amid a deteriorating security situation in parts of the Middle East, where U.S. military bases have reportedly faced an increase in drone and missile threats, particularly from Iran-backed groups using loitering munitions and Shahed-style UAVs.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed concern over the shift, confirming in a separate interview with ABC News that the U.S. will redirect 20,000 anti-drone missiles originally pledged to Ukraine toward defense operations in the Middle East. These missiles were intended to help Ukraine counter the persistent threat of Iranian-made Shahed drones used by Russian forces.

The reallocation of defensive aid raises questions about the future of Western support for Ukraine amid a grinding conflict with Russia. It also highlights the growing demand for mobile, responsive air defense systems in multiple conflict zones, forcing strategic trade-offs by defense planners in Washington.

While the U.S. maintains that the move is temporary and tactical, Kyiv has called for urgent consultations to reassess the balance of support as Russian attacks continue across eastern and southern Ukraine.

‘Pakistan’s Claim Inaccurate’: Dassault CEO Dismisses Rafale Loss Allegations in Operation Sindoor

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As speculation continues over India’s reported loss of a Rafale fighter jet during Operation Sindoor, Dassault Aviation CEO Éric Trappier has refuted Pakistan’s claims, calling them “inaccurate” and lacking substantiation. Trappier made these remarks in an interview with a French publication ahead of the upcoming Paris Airshow.

Pakistan had claimed it downed three Rafale jets during early May’s brief but intense aerial conflict with India. India has not officially confirmed or denied these reports, leading to widespread speculation. Trappier, however, dismissed the Pakistani version of events, stating, “The Indians did not communicate, so we do not know exactly what happened. What we already know is that the words of the Pakistanis — three destroyed Rafales — are inaccurate.”

The alleged losses have triggered debates in defense circles about the Rafale’s performance under live combat conditions. Responding to such concerns, Trappier stood by the aircraft’s capabilities and stressed the broader context of mission success. “When you operate combat aircraft, you complete a mission. The success of the mission is not having zero loss — it is having achieved your objectives,” he said. Drawing a historical parallel, he added, “During the Second World War, it was not said that the Allies had lost the war because they had lost troops.”

The Dassault chief further remarked that conclusions should be withheld until official details emerge. “We will see if there were losses or not, and if the war goals were achieved. When the truth comes out, some may have surprises,” he said, suggesting that the full operational picture remains classified for now.

Operation Sindoor marked the Indian Air Force’s first major combat engagement involving the Rafale fleet since their induction in 2020. The precision strike campaign has been credited with forcing Pakistan into an early ceasefire, and the IAF has reportedly documented the operation’s strategic success in detail.

While Islamabad’s claims have fueled headlines in Pakistan’s domestic media, defense analysts in India and abroad have expressed skepticism. Many cite a historical pattern of exaggerated claims by Pakistan and the absence of verifiable evidence to back the assertions.

Operation Sindoor is now seen not only as a milestone in India’s modern air combat capabilities but also as a test of credibility in wartime information warfare, where facts often compete with propaganda.