In a tragic development in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) from the Army’s special forces was killed during a gunfight with terrorists on Sunday, while three other soldiers sustained injuries. The operation is part of an intensified search following the recent killings of two Village Defence Guards (VDGs) in the region.

The fallen soldier has been identified as Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar of 2 Para, whose sacrifice was honored by the Army. The confrontation occurred around 11 am when a joint search party comprising the Army and police stumbled upon the terrorists in the Keshwan forest. This site is located just a few kilometers from where the bodies of the two VDGs, Nazir Ahmad and Kuldeep Kumar, were discovered. The VDGs had been victims of a brutal attack earlier, prompting a significant military response.

The search operation was launched on Thursday evening after the militants allegedly abducted and murdered the VDGs. The Army’s White Knight Corps, based in Jammu, communicated the details of the ongoing initiative on social media, stating that the operation was prompted by specific intelligence regarding terrorist activity in the Bhart Ridge area of Kishtwar. The military indicated that they were targeting the same group responsible for the abductions and subsequent killings of the VDGs. Contact with the terrorists was established, which led to an engaged firefight.

During the initial exchange of fire, four Army personnel were injured, including the JCO. They were promptly evacuated to a nearby medical facility, where three of the soldiers were reported to be in critical condition. Despite medical intervention, Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

In a heartfelt tribute, the Army tweeted their condolences, stating, “GOC White Knight Corps and all ranks salute the supreme sacrifice of braveheart Nb Sub Rakesh Kumar of 2 Para (SF). Sub Rakesh was part of a joint counter-insurgency operation launched in the general area of Bhart Ridge, Kishtwar. We stand with the bereaved family in this hour of grief.”

A police spokesperson confirmed that the encounter was still ongoing, with reports indicating that three or four terrorists are believed to be trapped in the area. Search operations continued into the evening, with security forces engaged in efforts to neutralize the militant threat. The situation remains tense as authorities work to address the ongoing violence and safeguard the region.

A Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) belonging to the Army’s special forces was killed in a confrontation with terrorists on Sunday in a secluded forest area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district. The operation is part of an intensified security effort following the recent murder of two Village Defence Guards (VDGs), which has heightened tensions and prompted a more aggressive response from the military.

The deceased soldier has been identified as Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar of the 2 Para regiment. The Army has paid tribute to his ultimate sacrifice. The encounter began around 11 am when joint teams from the Army and local police engaged with the terrorists in the Keshwan forest, not far from where the bodies of the two VDGs, Nazir Ahmad and Kuldeep Kumar, were recently found.

The security forces launched a significant search operation in the Kuntwara and Keshwan forests following the abduction and subsequent murder of the VDGs. The Army’s Jammu-based White Knight Corps announced the operation through a post on X, detailing the intelligence that led to the confrontation. The statement indicated that the security forces were acting on specific information regarding the terrorists believed to be involved in the earlier killings of the villagers.

According to officials, the initial gunfight resulted in injuries to four Army personnel, including the JCO. They were promptly evacuated to a nearby hospital, where the condition of three soldiers was reported to be critical. Unfortunately, Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar later succumbed to his injuries. The General Officer Commanding of the White Knight Corps and all ranks of the Army expressed their condolences, emphasizing their support for the bereaved family.

A police spokesperson confirmed an ongoing encounter with the terrorists connected to the earlier attacks on the VDGs, indicating that three or four suspects were believed to be trapped in the vicinity. Authorities continued their extensive search operations as the situation developed. The tragic incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region and the bravery of those serving in the armed forces.

In a significant development for India’s defense landscape, the Indian Army has formally announced the induction of the Asmi machine pistol into its arsenal, days after the United States imposed sanctions on Lokesh Machines, the manufacturer of the weapon. The announcement, made on Tuesday, follows the completion of the delivery of 550 units to the Army’s Northern Command approximately three months ago.

The Asmi, a product of collaborative efforts led by Colonel Prasad Bansod of the Indian Army and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), represents a strong push towards India’s goal of self-reliance in defense, often referred to as “Atmanirbharta.” This robust and compact weapon is specifically designed for close-quarter battles and specialized operations. The semi-bullpup design of the pistol allows for single-handed operation, making it versatile for use in various combat scenarios.

Earlier this year, Lokesh Machines, established in Hyderabad in 1983, delivered the 9x19mm caliber Asmi submachine guns which were chosen over other prominent competitors, including the Israeli Uzi and the German Heckler and Koch MP5. The weapon, equipped with an 8-inch barrel and a high-capacity magazine that holds up to 33 rounds, has garnered interest not only from the Indian Army but also from several state police forces, the National Security Guard (NSG), the Assam Rifles, and the Border Security Forces (BSF).

The timing of this announcement comes amidst heightened scrutiny on Lokesh Machines following sanctions imposed by the US Treasury Department. These sanctions are reportedly due to the firm’s alleged efforts to export machine tools to Russia, potentially aiding Moscow’s weapons manufacturing sector. In light of the sanctions, the Ministry of External Affairs of India has asserted that the Indian firms listed have not violated any laws.

The introduction of the Asmi machine pistol is seen as a crucial step in bolstering India’s defense capabilities and promoting indigenous manufacturing within the country. The successful design, development, and production of the Asmi within a span of less than three years is indicative of the capabilities of Indian defense manufacturers in meeting the armed forces’ operational needs.

One Indian Army soldier was killed and three others sustained injuries during a violent encounter with suspected militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar and Srinagar districts. The incident occurred on Sunday while security forces were engaged in a search operation in the Bhart Ridge forest area of Kishtwar, responding to specific intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists.

In a social media update, the White Knight Corps of the Indian Army confirmed the operation was initiated due to reports of militant activity, specifically naming the group responsible for the recent abduction and killings of two local villagers, identified as Nazir Ahmad and Kuldeep Kumar. These civilians, who served as village defense guards, were kidnapped and killed by the Kashmir Tigers, an organization believed to be affiliated with Jaish-e-Muhammad, just two days prior to the military operation.

During the operation, the exchange of gunfire resulted in the death of Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar from the 2 Para (Special Forces) battalion. The Army expressed condolences, stating, “We stand with the bereaved family in this hour of grief.”

The recent killings of the villagers spurred public outrage, leading to protests by local residents who demanded decisive actions from authorities to curb the escalating violence and militancy in the area. The local populace is increasingly agitated by the frequency of attacks.

Meanwhile, a separate operation in the Zabarwan forest region near Srinagar resulted in another exchange of fire between security forces and suspected militants. A police source revealed that the operation was also launched based on credible intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists in that area.

The Kashmir Valley has witnessed a notable increase in confrontations between militants and security forces over the past month. Reports indicate at least five such incidents occurred within the last three days. Just the day before, a suspected militant was killed in the Rampur-Rajpur forests of Sopore in North Kashmir, while two more militants were eliminated during a clash in Baramulla district. Other skirmishes on the same day led to additional casualties in Bandipora and Kupwara, highlighting the challenging security situation prevailing in the region.

In a tragic turn of events, Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar, an officer serving in the elite 2 Para (Special Forces), was killed in action during a fierce gunfight with terrorists in the Kishtwar region of Jammu and Kashmir. The incident unfolded as part of a coordinated counter-terror operation initiated by the Indian Army and local police in an area known as Bhart Ridge, with the encounter starting around 11 AM on a recent Saturday.

The operation was launched in response to heightened security concerns following the brutal killing of two village defense guards (VDGs), Nazir Ahmad and Kuldeep Kumar, whose bodies were discovered riddled with bullets. The deaths of the VDGs had sparked an intensified search for the terrorists responsible, leading the armed forces to deploy joint search parties in the forested areas of Kuntwara and Keshwan, where the operation was concentrated.

Reports indicate that during the confrontation with the terrorists, three other soldiers sustained injuries. The army’s 16 Corps took to social media platform X to announce the sacrifice of Naib Subedar Kumar, honoring his commitment and bravery in the line of duty. His loss deeply resonates within the ranks of the armed forces and the communities affected by ongoing violence in the region.

As the security forces continue their operations to root out terrorism, the death of Naib Subedar Kumar underscores the persistent threat that remains in Jammu and Kashmir. Civilians and local security personnel alike express their condolences, mourning the loss of a dedicated soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of his nation. Further investigations and operations are expected as authorities seek to bring the perpetrators of the recent attacks to justice.

As part of the Navy Day 2024 celebrations, the Indian Navy held a captivating performance by the Symphonic Band organized by INS Netaji Subhas and the Marine Training Unit (MTU) in Kolkata. The event took place at the bustling South City Mall on November 9, 2024, attracting an enthusiastic crowd of over 1,500 residents from Kolkata.

The Indian Navy Band, officially known as the Indian Naval Symphonic Band, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1945. Currently stationed at INS Kunjali, the band initially comprised 50 skilled musicians. Each member of the band not only holds a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university but is also proficient in playing at least one military-sponsored musical instrument.

Over the years, the Indian Naval Symphonic Orchestra has evolved to include 125 musicians who perform in various concert settings. The diversity of their repertoire has expanded significantly, thanks in part to various conductors who have led the band through its history. The orchestra now showcases an eclectic mix that includes symphonies, solos, concertos, and contemporary music, with genres ranging from Indian classical to Western pop.

The band has also made notable strides in fusing traditional Indian music with Western styles. Musicians have skillfully incorporated improvisational elements of Hindustani classical and Carnatic ragas into their performances, creating a unique blend that resonates well with audiences. Traditional Indian instruments, such as the Mridangam, Tabla, and other Carnatic instruments, have been integrated into their orchestral arrangements, enhancing the overall sound.

In recent years, the band has taken significant steps to enrich its musical offerings by adding a larger string section, which now features violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. This addition has transformed the ensemble into a complete symphonic orchestra, allowing for a more nuanced and dynamic performance experience.

The event at South City Mall not only celebrated the vibrant culture of the Indian Navy but also provided a platform for the community to appreciate the art of music as performed by the naval band. The enthusiasm of the audience highlighted the deep connection between the Navy and the people of Kolkata, making the celebration a memorable occasion for all involved.

In a significant leap towards enhanced military capabilities, Israel has been making headlines for its innovative use of micro drones, a trend that has caught the attention of armed forces worldwide. Among those taking note is the Indian Army, which has now integrated similar drone technology into its operations. The recent spotlight on this development highlights the “Black Hornet,” a compact, palm-sized surveillance drone that is currently deployed by Indian Army units operating in the challenging terrains of Jammu and Kashmir.

The adoption of the Black Hornet reflects a growing emphasis on advanced aerial surveillance techniques in modern warfare, particularly in the context of anti-terror operations. These insect-sized drones are equipped with cutting-edge technology that allows soldiers to gather crucial intelligence covertly. One of the standout features of the Black Hornet is its ability to transmit live visuals, offering real-time situational awareness. This capability is especially vital when it comes to assessing environments inside buildings where potential threats may be lurking.

The operational advantage provided by these drones extends beyond mere observation. In high-stakes scenarios, where engagement with enemy combatants occurs, the Black Hornet can confirm targets silently, thereby minimizing the risk to soldiers on the ground. The quiet deployment of these drones is a game changer, enabling forces to maintain the element of surprise and execute operations with greater precision.

India Today TV’s in-depth examination of the Black Hornet sheds light on its multifaceted applications in contemporary military strategies. As threats evolve and the nature of conflict transforms, the integration of such advanced technologies is crucial for any armed force looking to stay ahead in the asymmetric landscape of modern warfare.

This shift towards utilizing micro drones encapsulates a broader trend in military innovation, with countries recognizing the importance of adapting to technological advancements. As Israel sets a precedent in drone warfare, the Indian Army’s proactive approach to similar technologies underscores its commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness in regions plagued by instability and insurgency.

The incorporation of micro drones like the Black Hornet not only enhances intelligence-gathering capabilities but also sets the stage for future advancements in aerial reconnaissance and surveillance. As military forces around the world continue to explore the potential of drone technology, the Indian Army’s steps in this direction could serve as a model for others, exemplifying the strategic advantages that come with embracing cutting-edge innovations on the battlefield.

In a significant move towards self-reliance in defense technology, the Indian Army has successfully inducted 550 units of the indigenously developed ‘Asmi’ machine pistols into the Northern Command. This milestone underscores India’s commitment to the ‘Atmanirbharta’ initiative, a program aimed at enhancing the country’s capabilities in defense manufacturing and reducing dependency on foreign imports.

The ‘Asmi’ machine pistol, conceived and developed by Colonel Prasad Bansod of the Indian Army in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), represents a 100 percent Make in India product. The manufacturing of ‘Asmi’ is carried out by Lokesh Machines, based in Hyderabad, highlighting the potential within India’s defense sector for home-grown innovation and production.

Designed specifically for close-quarter battles and specialized operations, the ‘Asmi’ pistol stands out for its compact and sturdy design. Key features include:

• Compact and Lightweight Design: Tailored for quick maneuverability in confined spaces, ‘Asmi’ is ideal for environments where speed and agility are paramount during combat situations.

• Semi-Bullpup Configuration: This unique design allows the weapon to function effectively both as a pistol and a submachine gun. It supports single-handed operation, which is particularly beneficial when responding swiftly in high-pressure encounters.

• High Firing Rate: The ‘Asmi’ delivers a high rate of fire, a crucial attribute for suppressing enemy positions during close encounters, ensuring that soldiers can maintain tactical superiority.

• Range and Accuracy: With an effective range suitable for close-quarter battle and urban operations, the ‘Asmi’ provides reliable accuracy for engagements at short to medium distances. This enhances the operational effectiveness of soldiers in varied scenarios.

• Reliability and Durability: Designed to endure rugged conditions, the ‘Asmi’ is robust and highly reliable across diverse weather and terrain, guaranteeing consistent performance even in challenging environments.

• Indigenous Manufacturing and Customization: As a fully Make in India product, ‘Asmi’ can be customized to fulfill specific operational requirements and can be rapidly produced to meet the Indian Army’s needs. This flexibility ensures a reliable supply chain and adaptability in evolving combat situations.

The induction of the ‘Asmi’ machine pistol marks a progressive step for the Indian Army and reinforces the nation’s ambition towards bolstering indigenous defense capabilities. As the Indian military continues to evolve, the ‘Asmi’ serves as a testament to India’s innovative spirit and determination to achieve self-sufficiency in critical sectors of defense.

An Indian Army para commando lost his life during a gunfight with terrorists in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. The encounter unfolded in the Keshwan forests, where a joint search operation conducted by the Army and local police aimed to intercept a group of terrorists believed to be hiding in the area. This operation had been ongoing since Thursday evening, triggered by the tragic killings of two village defense guards (VDGs) earlier in the week.

The confrontation began around 11 am, prompting a swift engagement between the security forces and the militants. A police spokesperson indicated that three to four terrorists were believed to be cornered during the encounter. Unfortunately, Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar of the 2 Para (Special Forces), who was among the soldiers involved, sustained serious injuries and later succumbed to his wounds. Two other soldiers were also injured during the skirmish and have since been evacuated and airlifted for medical treatment to the base hospital in Udhampur.

The terrorists engaged in this encounter are reportedly linked to the abduction and murder of the two VDG members that initiated the anti-terror operations in the area. The Army spokesperson confirmed that efforts were ongoing to neutralize the group of terrorists involved in these earlier killings, with operations actively concentrated in the Chas forest area of Kishtwar.

Simultaneously, security forces have launched another anti-terror operation in the Zabarwan forest region of Nishat, Srinagar, in a bid to further clamp down on militant activities across the area. This reflects an intensified effort by security agencies to find and eliminate threats within the region.

In response to the soldier’s sacrifice, the White Knight Corps, responsible for military operations in the Kishtwar area, paid tribute to Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar through a message on social media. Their statement expressed profound respect for his bravery and offered condolences to his family during this difficult time. The gesture underscored the high regard in which the armed forces hold those who lay down their lives in service to the nation.

Kolkata: Lieutenant General Ram Chander Tiwari, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Eastern Command of the Army, has called for increased involvement from local Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from West Bengal in the realm of indigenous defence production. His comments came during East Tech, a two-day defence technology exhibition organized by the Indian Army’s Eastern Command in collaboration with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM). The exhibition aims to provide a showcase for participants to present their products and innovative solutions to senior military officials and other government stakeholders, aligning with the broader Make in India initiative particularly in the defence sector.

During his address, Lt Gen Tiwari noted the presence of over 140 representatives from the defence industry who had gathered to demonstrate their manufacturing capabilities. He emphasized the significant role of West Bengal, which boasts the highest number of MSMEs in India, in contributing to defence manufacturing efforts. Referring to the need for more local firms to engage in the defence sector, he urged the minister to facilitate this participation, expressing hope that future editions of East Tech would see greater involvement from regional companies.

The GOC-in-C underlined the unique strategic significance of the Eastern Command’s area of responsibility, which presents distinct environmental challenges that directly influence the military capabilities required. He stressed the necessity of adapting to new threats as they emerge, calling upon the defence industry to rise to the occasion and deliver the battlefield solutions needed.

Lt Gen Tiwari highlighted the evolving nature of modern warfare, particularly pointing to drone technology as a major disruptor on the battlefield. He articulated the Army’s intent to enhance its operational units with advanced drones capable of both armed and surveillance roles. He expressed confidence that domestic defence industry partners could develop reliable, interference-proof drones suitable for high-altitude and contested environments, which are critical given the operational contexts faced by the armed forces.

Moreover, he addressed the growing need for an effective counter-drone infrastructure in light of increasing capabilities displayed by militaries globally and regionally. This necessity underscores the importance of maintaining operational readiness and resilience amid the rapidly changing landscape of modern defence challenges.