The Indian Navy’s Sailing Vessel, the INSV Tarini, has reached its inaugural port of call in Fremantle, Perth, Australia, as part of its ambitious global circumnavigation expedition, Navika Sagar Parikrama II. Arriving on November 9, this significant milestone follows a formidable 38-day voyage originating from Goa, which was flagged off by Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi on October 2.

During this extensive journey, the vessel has successfully covered an impressive distance of 9,000 kilometers. Notable achievements during the expedition include crossing the Equator on October 24 and the Tropic of Capricorn shortly after on October 27. The voyage was anything but smooth, as the crew, comprising Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A, faced a variety of challenging weather conditions. They navigated through everything from calm seas to extreme weather, contending with winds reaching up to 40 knots and turbulent waters.

The progress of the INSV Tarini has been a matter of close observation for the Navy Chief, who received daily updates throughout the expedition. On the eve of Diwali, while the crew was still at sea, he reached out to them, expressing his admiration for their unwavering motivation and dedication to their mission.

Upon arriving in Australia, the INSV Tarini was met with a warm and celebratory welcome by a number of dignitaries. This welcome included the Consul General of India in Perth, the Defence Advisor from Canberra, the Secretary of the Indian Navy Sailing Association, as well as representatives from the Royal Australian Navy. The event also garnered attention from local media and Indian Naval veterans residing in Australia. Additionally, the Tamil Association of Western Australia extended their hospitality to the crew.

The expedition to Australia is one of four critical stops in the voyage, emphasizing the Indian Navy’s commitment to continuing the legacy of the INSV Tarini’s first circumnavigation. It also highlights important themes of gender equality, sustainability, and global maritime cooperation. Furthermore, the venture serves as a testament to India’s dedication to enhancing relationships with international maritime communities and stands as an ambassador of the country’s rich maritime heritage.

In a remarkable blend of film and community engagement, popular actor Vijay, who also leads the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), visited the prestigious Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai on Friday. The occasion marked both a film shoot and an informal outreach during Vijay’s newly embarked political journey.

Upon arriving at the sprawling OTA located in St Thomas Mount, Vijay received an enthusiastic welcome from the soldiers and their families gathered in the auditorium. The actor, often revered and affectionately dubbed ‘Thalapathy’ by his fans, proved to be generous with his time. When the film crew suggested a meet and greet with the army personnel, Vijay enthusiastically agreed, much to the surprise of the gathered troops.

This interaction comes shortly after the release of “Amaran,” a biopic centered on the late Major Mukund Varadarajan, who was killed in action in Kashmir. The film, featuring Sivakarthikeyan in the title role alongside Sai Pallavi as his wife, Indu Rebecca Varghese, has enjoyed blockbuster success and heightened interest in military narratives within the Tamil film industry.

Vijay’s connection to the military extends beyond professional engagements. He previously visited the home of the late martyr to spend time with his daughter, Arshia, who is known to be one of his fans. Their heartfelt encounter—marked by a memorable moment where he held her in his lap for a selfie—produced images that quickly went viral, solidifying Vijay’s rapport with the family and his position as a beloved figure in the community.

As he prepares for what he has announced to be his retirement from acting following the completion of ‘Thalapathy 69,’ his upcoming film directed by H Vinoth, this event underscores both his philanthropic heart and his career trajectory. The actor’s willingness to engage directly with the armed forces showcases his commitment to bridging the gap between his stardom in Kollywood and his political ambitions with the TVK, all while honoring the sacrifices made by the soldiers of India.

In a tragic turn of events during an ongoing anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, a junior commissioned officer has been killed. The soldier has been identified as Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar, hailing from the 2 Para Special Forces unit. His death occurred amid a joint operation initiated in the Bhart Ridge area, which began on Saturday, following the recent murders of two local Village Defence Guards (VDGs).

The operation was launched in response to the heinous act of abduction and murder of the VDGs, Nazir Ahmad and Kuldeep Kumar. Their bodies were discovered with gunshot wounds in the Keshwan forest area, prompting security forces to launch extensive searches in the Kuntwara and Keshwan forests starting Thursday evening.

On Sunday around 11 am, contact was established between security forces and terrorists, leading to a fierce firefight after forces zeroed in on the militants in the Keshwan forest. The Army’s White Knight Corps confirmed the operation through a post on social media platform X, noting that this joint endeavor involved both the Army and local police. The post emphasized the operation was specifically targeting the group responsible for the abduction and killing of the two innocent villagers and confirmed that contact with the terrorists had been made, initiating the exchange of fire.

In the initial stages of the engagement, four Army personnel were injured and subsequently evacuated to a hospital, where they are reported to be in critical condition. Security officials have indicated that approximately three to four terrorists remain encircled in the area, with active combat operations continuing as sporadic exchanges of gunfire were reported.

As the operation unfolds, authorities remain focused on neutralizing the threat posed by the terrorists, underscoring their commitment to maintaining security and safety in the region. The ongoing situation illustrates the complex and dangerous nature of counter-terrorism efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the risks faced by security personnel in their line of duty.

In a tragic turn of events, a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) from the Army’s special forces lost his life during an intense gunfight with terrorists in the remote forested areas of Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, on Sunday. The conflict unfolded against the backdrop of heightened security operations following the brutal murder of two Village Defence Guards (VDGs) in the region.

The deceased soldier has been identified as Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar from the 2 Para regiment. The Army honored his sacrifice, emphasizing the bravery and commitment he displayed during the operation. The encounter began around 11 am when joint search teams from the Army and local police engaged the terrorists hiding in Keshwan forest, which is located just a few kilometers from where the bodies of the VDGs, Nazir Ahmad and Kuldeep Kumar, were recently discovered.

In response to the alarming situation following the killings of the VDGs, a large-scale search operation was initiated in the Kuntwara and Keshwan forests. The operation commenced on Thursday evening after the villagers were reportedly abducted and murdered by the same group of terrorists.

According to the Jammu-based White Knight Corps, the security forces acted on specific intelligence that pointed to the presence of terrorists in the Bhart Ridge area of Kishtwar. In a statement on X, they reported, “This is the same group which had abducted and killed 02 (two) innocent villagers (Village Defence Guards). Contact was established and a firefight ensued.”

During the initial confrontation, four Army personnel, including the JCO, sustained injuries and were subsequently evacuated to a medical facility. Officials later stated that while three of the injured soldiers were in critical condition, Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

The General Officer Commanding of the White Knight Corps and all ranks of the Army expressed their condolences for the loss of the brave soldier. In a tweet, they remarked, “We stand with the bereaved family in this hour of grief,” illustrating the strong sense of camaraderie and support within the ranks.

Additionally, a police spokesperson confirmed that the encounter was ongoing, noting that three or four terrorists were believed to be trapped in the vicinity, intensifying the urgency of the operation. As the situation developed, the search operation continued meticulously, with local security forces determined to root out the threat posed by terrorism in the area. Reports indicated that the operation remained active until the last updates were received, highlighting the challenges faced by security forces in ensuring the safety of local communities.

The Eastern Naval Command (ENC) has announced that this year’s annual Operational Demonstration, a key highlight of the Navy Day celebrations, will take place at the picturesque Blue Flag Beach in Puri, Odisha. Official communications indicate that the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, will serve as the Chief Guest for the event, reinforcing the significance of this occasion.

The Operational Demonstration, dubbed OpDemo2024, is set to showcase the Indian Navy’s extensive maritime capabilities and operational strength. This year’s event seeks not only to display the Navy’s multifaceted competencies but also to enhance maritime awareness among the public and pay homage to India’s rich seafaring heritage, as stated by the Eastern Naval Command.

The choice of Puri as the venue is symbolic, reflecting the deep connection between the Indian Navy and the maritime history of Odisha. Organizers are collaborating closely with the Odisha government and local authorities to ensure the event runs smoothly. To accommodate the anticipated influx of spectators, provisions are being made for seating that will enable both locals and tourists to witness the live demonstrations from the beach.

In addition to the on-site experience, the event will cater to a broader audience; it will be broadcast live on national television and streamed via the Indian Navy’s official YouTube channel, ensuring that those unable to attend in person can still engage with the festivities.

Preparations for the event are already underway, with the Naval Officer In Charge at Odisha, Commodore B. Deepak Aneel, recently meeting with Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command. During their meeting, they reviewed plans for the upcoming Baliyatra festival and the operational demonstration. The discussions also encompassed recent humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations carried out by the Navy in Odisha, particularly in response to cyclone Dana, alongside forthcoming coastal security exercises and other operational matters.

As anticipation builds for OpDemo2024, it stands not only as a celebration of naval prowess but also as a reminder of the Indian Navy’s commitment to service, both in safeguarding the nation and providing aid in times of crisis.

The Indian submarine INS Vela made its arrival in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Sunday as part of a scheduled three-day visit to the island nation, according to the Indian High Commission. The submarine, which measures 67.5 meters in length and operates with a crew of 53, is under the command of Commander Kapil Kumar. Notably, INS Vela is an indigenous Kalvari-class diesel-electric submarine that was officially commissioned into the Indian Navy on November 25, 2021.

During its stay in the capital, the crew of INS Vela is set to engage in various activities organized by the Sri Lanka Navy, aimed at fostering mutual cooperation and camaraderie between the two naval forces. According to a statement from the Sri Lankan Navy, personnel from the Sri Lankan Navy are also expected to visit the submarine, where they will attend an awareness program focusing on its operational capabilities.

Additionally, the crew members of the submarine will have the opportunity to explore several tourist attractions across the country. Following its visit, INS Vela is scheduled to depart Colombo on November 13.

The Indian embassy highlighted that the visit is categorized as an Operational Turn Around (OTR), which allows the submarine to replenish essential provisions. This visit is part of a broader trend, as Indian Navy and Coast Guard ships and submarines routinely make port calls in Sri Lanka.

The timing of this visit aligns with India’s overarching ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and complements Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, encapsulated in the ‘SAGAR’ initiative, which stands for “Security and Growth for All in the Region.”

During its stay, Commander Kapil Kumar is slated to meet with Rear Admiral WDCU Kumarasinghe, the Commander of the Western Naval Area, at the Western Naval Headquarters. Furthermore, joint activities are arranged, including a basketball match between the submarine’s crew and personnel from the Sri Lanka Navy at the Sri Lanka Naval Base in Welisara, emphasizing the spirit of friendly competition and collaboration between the two nations.

In a notable development for India’s defense manufacturing sector, a senior French army official has expressed interest in evaluating India’s Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher systems. Brigadier General Stephane Richou, who is currently visiting India for bilateral discussions, emphasized the growing significance of India’s role in global defense production. “We are evaluating the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system because we need a system like that. We are evaluating the system among the other systems offered by the highest countries offering such systems. India is among the highest countries producing weapons,” he stated.

Brigadier General Richou’s remarks reflect the deep-rooted relationship between France and India, which goes beyond mere commercial interests. He pointed out that this engagement signifies robust cooperation and a vision for a common future. The ongoing dialogue underscores the mutual reliance and collaboration between the two nations in defense technology and manufacturing.

The Pinaka, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), showcases impressive capabilities with a striking range exceeding 75 kilometers. Its production involves various Indian defense companies, including Solar Industries, L&T, Tata, and the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). The system has already gained international recognition with orders from countries like Armenia, and interest from additional nations is reportedly on the rise.

This weapon system was also a topic of discussion during the recent visit of Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan to France, indicating the strategic importance assigned to it by senior military officials. Brigadier General Richou further highlighted the depth of technological collaboration between France and India, referencing joint projects such as the Scorpene submarines, which have reinforced bilateral military ties.

Additionally, the two countries have been engaging in joint military exercises, with the Shakti exercise showcasing their commitment to training together. As part of this ongoing collaboration, France also announced plans to host a substantial contingent from the Indian Army for the 25th edition of their joint military exercises.

Moreover, France has solidified its status as the second-largest importer of Indian defense equipment, following the United States. This partnership particularly emphasizes electronics components, contributing to a more integrated defense ecosystem between the two countries. The evolving dynamics of defense cooperation reflect a strategic alignment that resonates with both nations’ visions for enhanced military capabilities and collaborative development.