An Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopter made an emergency landing near Changa village in Gujarat’s Jamnagar district on Monday morning due to a suspected technical snag. The incident occurred around 11:00 AM near Rangmati Dam, approximately 22 kilometers from the Jamnagar Air Force Station.
According to Superintendent of Police Premsukh Delu, the emergency landing was a precautionary measure after the helicopter experienced technical issues mid-flight. Thankfully, there were no injuries reported among the crew or civilians in the area.
Upon receiving information, IAF personnel and local authorities rushed to the site. After conducting necessary technical inspections, the helicopter was declared serviceable and later flown back to base safely.
IAF officials have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the malfunction. The timely response and professional handling of the situation ensured that no harm came to those on board or on the ground.
The incident highlights the preparedness and quick response of the Indian Air Force in handling in-flight emergencies, maintaining both operational safety and public confidence.
A state-of-the-art Pediatric & Sedation Dental Clinic, complete with a dedicated play area, was inaugurated at the Indian Naval Dental Centre (INDC) Danteshwari on April 15, 2025. The facility was officially opened by Surgeon Rear Admiral KM Adhikari, Command Medical Officer of the Western Naval Command (WNC), marking a significant step forward in enhancing dental care services for the naval community.
The newly established clinic is equipped with an advanced inhalational sedation unit, along with essential monitoring and emergency equipment, designed to cater to children of all age groups, including those with special needs. This setup ensures a safe and comfortable environment for young patients, offering therapeutic treatment modalities such as behavior management and anxiolysis to reduce anxiety during dental procedures.
The clinic is also integrated with the Extended Integrated Care (EIC) system at INHS Asvini, the Indian Navy’s largest hospital in Mumbai, known for its pioneering medical services since its commissioning in 1951. This collaboration aims to provide high-quality, comprehensive dental care to the children of naval personnel, addressing a critical need for specialized pediatric dental services within the armed forces.
INDC Danteshwari, first commissioned on December 12, 2018, at Colaba, Mumbai, has been a cornerstone in providing world-class multi-specialty dental care to the naval community. With the addition of this new clinic, the center continues its legacy of ensuring patient safety, comfort, and access to the latest in dental healthcare practices, further solidifying the Indian Navy’s commitment to the well-being of its personnel and their families.
INHS Asvini, a premier naval hospital in Mumbai, conducted a lecture and demonstration on fire safety and prevention on April 16, 2025, as part of National Fire Service Week. The annual observance, held from April 14 to 20, commemorates the brave firefighters who lost their lives in a tragic ship explosion at the Mumbai dockyard in 1944, while also promoting awareness about fire safety measures.
The event was led by Senior Station Fire Officer Mr. HS Shinde and his team from Colaba Fire Station. They delivered an insightful lecture highlighting the importance of adhering to safety protocols in high-risk environments like naval facilities. The session also included a hands-on demonstration, where participants were trained in the handling and usage of various types of fire extinguishers, as well as techniques for the safe evacuation and carriage of casualties during fire emergencies.
Naval personnel, dressed in their white uniforms, actively participated in the event. A group photo captured them standing alongside fire trucks, showcasing their engagement in the initiative. Another segment of the program featured practical training, with officers demonstrating the effective use of fire extinguishers to combat simulated fire scenarios.
This initiative underscores the critical need for fire safety preparedness. According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Safety Research, hands-on fire safety drills can reduce emergency response times by up to 30%, significantly enhancing the chances of saving lives during fire incidents. Events like these at INHS Asvini play a vital role in fostering a culture of safety and readiness, ensuring personnel are well-equipped to handle emergencies and contribute to a fire-safe environment.
Lieutenant General Nagendra Singh, General Officer Commanding of Chetak Corps, felicitated Rifleman Ujjwal Kumar Singh for his outstanding achievements at the Australian Rowing Championship 2025. The ceremony, held at the Chetak Corps headquarters, celebrated Ujjwal’s remarkable haul of two gold medals in the Lightweight Double Skull and Eight-Seater events, along with a silver medal in the Quad Skull event, marking a significant milestone for the Indian Army’s sports initiatives.
Ujjwal’s success at the international stage underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to fostering sporting talent through programs like the Mission Olympics, which was established in 2001 to train athletes for global competitions, including the Olympics. The Army Rowing Node in Pune, part of this initiative, has been instrumental in honing Ujjwal’s skills, offering world-class training facilities and coaching. The Army currently trains over 450 athletes across 11 disciplines, with rowing being a key focus area under the Army Sports Institute (ASI) and other specialized nodes.
Lieutenant General Nagendra Singh, who assumed command of Chetak Corps in January 2024, lauded Ujjwal for his hard work, resilience, and dedication, describing him as a role model for aspiring sportspersons. “Ujjwal’s achievements are a source of inspiration for all. His success reflects the disciplined training environment and unwavering support provided by the Indian Army to its athletes,” Lt Gen Singh stated during the felicitation. The Chetak Corps, based in Bathinda, has been actively involved in nurturing talent, contributing to the Army’s broader goal of achieving excellence in sports.
Ujjwal’s victories add to the Indian Army’s growing legacy in sports, which has seen notable success in events like the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. However, rowing remains a challenging field for India on the global stage. Ujjwal, alongside teammate Arvind Singh, had previously competed in the lightweight double sculls at the 2024 Olympic qualifiers but narrowly missed securing a quota, finishing third. His recent performance in Australia signals a promising trajectory for Indian rowing, with hopes of stronger representation in future international competitions, including the Olympics.
The Indian Army’s Mission Olympics program continues to play a pivotal role in identifying and training athletes, with facilities like the Army Rowing Node at the College of Military Engineering (CME) in Pune providing state-of-the-art infrastructure. The program has produced several Olympians, with 16 soldiers representing India at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Ujjwal’s achievements are a testament to the Army’s vision of blending military discipline with sporting excellence, aiming to bring more laurels to the nation on the global stage.
A significant meeting of senior officers from the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy took place at Vijay Durg, the headquarters of the Indian Army’s Eastern Command in Kolkata, to discuss operational readiness, jointness, and integration among the three services. The gathering underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance synergy within the Indian Armed Forces, aligning with the nation’s broader military reforms.
Lieutenant General RC Tiwari, Army Commander of the Eastern Command, hosted the meeting, which was attended by Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Air Command, Air Marshal Surat Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command, Air Marshal Rakesh Sinha, Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, and Commodore Ajay Yadav, Naval Officer-in-Charge for West Bengal. The officers engaged in discussions focused on bolstering coordination and interoperability across the Army, Navy, and Air Force, a critical aspect of modern warfare and national security.
The meeting at Vijay Durg, formerly known as Fort William until its renaming in February 2025, reflects the Indian government’s push to shed colonial legacies while strengthening military unity. The renaming of Fort William, a historic British-era military stronghold, to Vijay Durg—meaning “Fort of Victory”—is part of a broader initiative to reclaim India’s cultural heritage and assert its national identity. The decision, announced in mid-December 2024, has sparked mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a powerful symbol of post-colonial pride, while others debate the implications of altering historical landmarks.
This gathering also aligns with the Indian Armed Forces’ ongoing transition toward Integrated Theatre Commands (ITCs), a transformative military reform aimed at creating unified operational structures. The concept, which has been in development for years, gained momentum with the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) role in January 2020. The CDS, along with tri-service organizations like the Integrated Defence Staff, has been instrumental in driving jointness and integration. Recent reports indicate that a formal proposal for ITCs is in a mature stage, with 2025 designated as the “Year of Reforms” by the Ministry of Defence, focusing on theatre commands, cybersecurity, space, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and robotics.
The officers’ discussions at Vijay Durg build on previous demonstrations of tri-service collaboration, such as the joint combat display witnessed by Lt Gen Tiwari, Air Marshal Singh, and Commodore Yadav in March 2025. That event showcased the seamless coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force, reaffirming their preparedness to tackle multi-dimensional threats.
As India continues to modernize its military framework, meetings like the one at Vijay Durg highlight the commitment to fostering unity and operational efficiency across the armed forces, ensuring a robust defense posture for the nation.
A recent road rage incident involving Indian Air Force (IAF) officer Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose has sparked a national debate after CCTV footage seemingly altered public perception of what transpired. However, as the narrative continues to evolve, it is crucial to consider the broader context and circumstances before rushing to judgment against a decorated military officer.
The altercation occurred near the DRDO colony in CV Raman Nagar, Bengaluru. Wing Commander Bose and his wife, Squadron Leader Madhumita Das, were en route to the airport when an encounter with a biker took a violent turn. In a video message shortly after the incident, Bose—his face visibly bloodied—alleged that he was verbally abused in Kannada and physically attacked when he stepped out to confront the rider. He claimed the biker assaulted him with a key, causing severe injuries to his face and neck.
Following this, an FIR was filed, and the biker was arrested based on the official complaint by Squadron Leader Das. Initial reports, including those from major news outlets, suggested that the officer had been targeted possibly due to the DRDO sticker on his vehicle, fuelling speculation of a language-based confrontation.
The emergence of CCTV footage days later led to a swift shift in narrative. The visuals, now viral on social media, show Wing Commander Bose involved in a physical altercation with the biker, who has been identified as a delivery worker. Clips show Bose engaging aggressively, including pushing, kicking, and attempting to restrain the individual on the ground.
However, context remains crucial. The footage does not capture the complete sequence of events—particularly what triggered the confrontation. It also does not show the alleged initial provocation or the claimed use of abusive language. In fact, the moments leading up to the physical encounter—those that may have caused a trained officer to believe he or his wife was under threat—are not visible.
A Trained Officer Acting Under Perceived Threat?
Wing Commander Bose, a senior IAF officer with an impeccable service record, has dedicated his life to the defence of the nation. His instinctive reaction in a high-stress situation could very well be attributed to a perceived threat to his safety or that of his wife. In such scenarios, military training often prompts personnel to neutralise threats quickly and decisively.
While critics argue that the officer used excessive force, supporters stress that the footage lacks audio and fails to provide the full scope of the exchange—verbal or physical—that may have preceded the altercation. In the absence of this vital context, assumptions about intent and proportionality may be premature.
The rapid vilification of the officer on social media and by certain sections of the media raises important questions about trial by public opinion. While transparency and accountability are essential, it is equally important to ensure that the rule of law prevails and that a thorough, fair investigation is conducted before branding anyone guilty.
It’s also worth noting that the FIR was registered in the immediate aftermath based on the injuries sustained by Wing Commander Bose—evidence that points to a real physical confrontation, not a fabricated claim. The idea that the officer acted without provocation is purely speculative until verified through a proper legal process.
Call for a Balanced, Lawful Approach
Deputy Commissioner of Police D. Devaraj has clarified that the incident appears to be a case of road rage, dismissing any language-related motive. This assertion refocuses attention on the immediate conflict rather than broader social triggers.
As emotions run high on both sides, the need of the hour is calm, objective scrutiny. The IAF and law enforcement agencies must be allowed to complete their internal and external inquiries, ensuring justice is served without compromising institutional integrity or individual dignity.
Final Thoughts
Every citizen, including those in uniform, is accountable under the law. But they are also entitled to the same due process as any other individual. To reduce this complex incident to a simplistic binary of right and wrong is to ignore the grey areas that often define real-life conflicts.
Wing Commander Bose’s years of disciplined service and the credibility of his initial report cannot be dismissed outright on the basis of an incomplete visual narrative. Until all facts emerge, it is vital that the officer’s side of the story is heard with the same seriousness and respect accorded to any civilian.
Let us uphold the principle that justice must be based on facts, not fervour—and that accountability must apply equally, without bias or haste.
In a poignant moment filled with honour and deep personal sorrow, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), paid a heartfelt tribute to Naib Subedar Baldev Singh of the 18th Battalion, Jammu and Kashmir Rifles (18 JAK RIF), who lost his life in the line of duty at Kumar Post on the Siachen Glacier — the world’s highest and one of the most challenging battlefields.
The solemn wreath-laying ceremony took place at Shraddhanjali Sthal, Base Hospital, Delhi Cantonment. General Dwivedi laid a wreath on the mortal remains of the valiant Junior Commissioned Officer, marking not just a military farewell but a deeply personal one, as Naib Subedar Baldev Singh was once his subordinate and mentee in the same battalion.
A Bond Forged in Service and Brotherhood
Naib Subedar Baldev Singh was inducted into the Indian Army in 2002 during the height of Operation Rakshak in the Kashmir Valley. In October 2003, General Dwivedi, then a Colonel, took over command of the 18 JAK RIF. It was during this tenure that he first encountered the young and promising Baldev Singh, who was serving in Delta Company at the time.
Recognizing his potential early on, Col Dwivedi nominated him for specialist duties in the battalion’s Signal Platoon and personally mentored him in the demanding role of an Infantry Signaller. Over the years, the bond between the two soldiers grew beyond the professional realm into one of mutual trust, respect, and almost familial connection.
Baldev Singh served with distinction, participating in numerous operational missions alongside his commanding officer, consistently exhibiting courage, technical expertise, and unflinching commitment to duty. He was promoted to the rank of Naib Subedar approximately a year ago — a recognition of his dedication and leadership.
Supreme Sacrifice at Siachen
On April 20, 2025, while deployed at Kumar Post in the unforgiving terrain of the Northern Glacier in Siachen, Naib Subedar Baldev Singh lost his life. Known for its sub-zero temperatures and hostile environment, Kumar Post remains one of the most treacherous military outposts in the world, demanding both physical endurance and mental fortitude from those stationed there.
His sacrifice has left an indelible void, not just in the ranks of 18 JAK RIF, but also in the heart of the Army Chief, who mourns the loss of a comrade he personally groomed and served with.
Nation Mourns a Braveheart
The Indian Army, through an official statement, expressed its unwavering support to the bereaved family and acknowledged the gallant service of Naib Subedar Baldev Singh, whose legacy will inspire generations of soldiers to come.
“The Indian Army stands in steadfast solidarity with the bereaved family during this hour of grief and salutes the indomitable spirit and devotion to duty of Naib Subedar Baldev Singh. His legacy of sacrifice and service will continue to inspire generations of soldiers,” the release stated.
Tributes poured in from all ranks across the force:
Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, Army Commander, Northern Command, saluted the supreme sacrifice and reiterated that Northern Command stands firmly with the family.
The GOC, Fire and Fury Corps, along with officers and soldiers, also paid their respects, hailing his bravery and ultimate sacrifice.
As the nation bows its head in respect, the story of Naib Subedar Baldev Singh remains a shining example of service, sacrifice, and the enduring bond between soldiers — one that transcends ranks and time.
In a significant blow to the Naxal insurgency, a joint operation by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Jharkhand Police resulted in the elimination of eight Maoists, including three high-ranking members, in the dense Lugu forest of Bokaro district on Monday. The operation, led by the CRPF’s 209 Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), targeted a group of 20–25 armed Naxals following precise intelligence inputs.
The encounter, which began around 5:30 AM under the Lalpania police station limits, saw a fierce gunfight between the security forces and the insurgents. Among the Naxals neutralized were one Central Committee Member, one Special Area Committee Member, and one Zonal Committee Member, dealing a severe setback to the Communist Party of India (Maoist), a banned organization leading the insurgency in India’s “Red Corridor.” The operation also led to the recovery of a substantial arms cache, including rifles, explosives, and other weaponry, underscoring the scale of the threat posed by the group.
The CoBRA unit, specially trained for jungle warfare and counter-insurgency operations, has been instrumental in tackling the Naxal menace since its inception in 2009. This operation marks another success in the Indian government’s ongoing efforts to curb the decades-long insurgency, which has claimed thousands of lives since its peak in the late 2000s. According to official data, the Naxal influence has significantly reduced from 180 affected districts in the late 2000s to about 38 districts in 2025, largely due to sustained security operations and development initiatives in affected regions.
Jharkhand Police and CRPF officials hailed the operation as a testament to the coordination between forces and their commitment to ensuring national security. No casualties were reported among the security personnel involved in the operation. The encounter comes amid renewed efforts by the government to address the root causes of the insurgency, such as poverty and lack of development, while maintaining a strong security presence in the region.
A road rage incident in Bengaluru has left Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose and his wife, Squadron Leader Madhumita Das, allegedly assaulted while on their way to Kempegowda International Airport. The incident occurred early Monday morning, April 20, 2025, as the couple was traveling from the DRDO Colony in CV Raman Nagar. Bose sustained facial and head injuries and was treated at a hospital following the attack.
According to D Devaraj, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for East Bengaluru, the incident stemmed from a confrontation on the road. Madhumita Das was driving her husband to the airport when a man, identified as Vikas Kumar, approached from the opposite direction, leading to a heated altercation. The situation escalated when both parties exited their vehicles and engaged in a physical fight. During the scuffle, 6-7 youngsters nearby attempted to intervene and pacify the situation, but the conflict persisted.
DCP Devaraj emphasized that the incident was a clear case of road rage, a growing issue in Bengaluru, and not related to any linguistic or regional disputes. “This is not a case related to any language or reason. It is a clear-cut case of road rage, which is very common in Bengaluru. Both of them could have avoided this,” Devaraj stated. He added that Vikas Kumar, a resident of Babusapalya who works at a call center, has been arrested in connection with the assault.
The incident has sparked concerns over the rising number of road rage cases in Bengaluru. Reports indicate that such incidents have become increasingly frequent, with citizens expressing frustration over growing lawlessness on the city’s roads. In a similar incident reported earlier this year in TC Palya, miscreants damaged a car’s wing mirror during a heated argument, highlighting the escalating menace of road rage, particularly at night.
Authorities have urged citizens to report such incidents promptly by dialing 112 for swift police response. Bengaluru Police continue to stress the importance of adhering to traffic rules to ensure road safety for all. The investigation into the assault on the IAF officers is ongoing, with further details awaited.
In a significant stride towards integrating cutting-edge technology into military training, the 39 Gorkha Training Centre in Varanasi, under the aegis of Surya Command, recently conducted a 3D Printing and First-Person View (FPV) Drone Development Course. The program aimed to equip soldiers with advanced skills in drone assembly, programming, and real-time flight control, fostering innovation and technical excellence on the battlefield.
The course provided hands-on experience, enabling participants to successfully build and operate fully functional FPV drones. Soldiers engaged in practical sessions that transformed theoretical concepts into tangible prototypes, enhancing their understanding of emerging technologies. The training environment, blending technology with rigorous instruction, created an unparalleled learning experience for the trainees.
This initiative follows the inauguration of a state-of-the-art 3D Printing Lab at the same centre earlier this year, reflecting the Indian Army’s commitment to leveraging modern technology for defence advancements. The use of 3D printing in military applications allows for on-site production of spare parts, reducing logistical challenges and enhancing self-reliance in remote operations—a practice increasingly adopted by militaries worldwide, as noted in studies like NATO’s 2017 Additive Manufacturing Feasibility Study.
FPV drones, which have gained prominence in modern warfare, offer real-time reconnaissance, precision strikes, and electronic warfare capabilities. Their tactical significance has been underscored in conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war, where drones have proven to be low-cost, high-impact tools for both offensive and defensive operations. The Indian Army’s training program also incorporates lessons from such conflicts, preparing soldiers to both utilize and counter FPV drones effectively.
The course at the 39 Gorkha Training Centre, a key training hub for the 3rd and 9th Gorkha Battalions, marks a pivotal step in the Indian Army’s broader mission to develop next-generation soldiers. By equipping personnel with skills in 3D printing and drone technology, the Army is ensuring its forces are future-ready to address evolving battlefield challenges. This initiative is part of a larger effort under hashtags like #YearOfDefenceReforms and #OnPathToTransformation, emphasizing capability development and technological empowerment within the armed forces.
The program has been lauded as a much-needed step towards imbibing technology into military operations, with participants receiving recognition for their achievements. Brigadier Ashish Gupta, who presided over the course’s closing ceremony on March 20, 2025, presented certificates and awards to the trainees, highlighting their role in driving innovation on the ground. The Indian Army continues to set a benchmark in military training, ensuring its soldiers are at the forefront of technological advancements in defense.
