In a significant announcement, the Indian Army has opened applications for unmarried male and female law graduates under the Judge Advocate General (JAG) Entry Scheme. This opportunity is part of the course scheduled to commence in October 2025, aimed at granting Short Service Commission in the JAG branch of the Indian Army.

Interested candidates must adhere to the nationality criteria outlined in the notification available on the official Indian Army recruitment website. The age requirement dictates that applicants should be between 21 and 27 years old as of July 1, 2025. Therefore, candidates must have been born between July 2, 1998, and July 1, 2004, to qualify.

Educational prerequisites for applicants include holding an LLB degree—either a three-year professional degree post-graduation or a five-year degree after completing twelve years of schooling. The degree must be obtained from a college or university recognized by the Bar Council of India, with candidates required to achieve a minimum aggregate score of 55%. Additionally, candidates with LLM qualifications or who are currently pursuing LLM must have scores from the CLAT PG 2024 examination.

This recruitment drive offers a total of eight vacancies, with four positions designated for men and four for women. Selected candidates will undergo Pre-Commission training at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai, contingent upon available vacancies and eligibility criteria. Those who complete the program will receive a ‘Post Graduate Diploma in Defence Management and Strategic Studies’ from the University of Madras. The final assignment of Arms and Services will occur before the cadets graduate from OTA.

The Indian Army will cover the entire training cost at OTA. However, if a candidate is withdrawn from the training for specified reasons mentioned in the notification, they will be required to reimburse the government at a rate of Rs. 17,561 per week, a figure subject to updates as notified.

Candidates must refrain from marriage during their training, and living arrangements must be separate from their parents or guardians. The policy states that candidates cannot marry until they have completed their full training at OTA.

The Short Service Commission offered is valid for 14 years—initially spanning 10 years, with an option to extend for an additional four years. Officers who express interest in extending their service beyond ten years may be considered for Permanent Commission (PC) based on their eligibility and suitability. Those who do not receive a PC offer but remain fit and suitable will have the option to continue their service as Short Service Commission Officers (SSCOs) for the entire 14-year period.

SSCOs wishing to exit after five years can apply to the Army Headquarters during their fifth year of service, provided they have not attended any specialized courses. Additional details regarding service conditions are available in the notification.

Aspiring candidates must submit their applications online through the Indian Army’s recruitment portal by 3:00 PM on November 28, 2024. The website also contains comprehensive instructions and guidelines for the application process.

Once applications are received, the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army) will shortlist candidates for the Service Selection Board (SSB) Interviews, which will be conducted at various selection centers, including Prayagraj, Bhopal, Bangalore, and Jalandhar. Candidates will be notified of their interview call letters via their registered email and SMS. The selection process includes a two-stage procedure, with successful candidates from Stage I proceeding to Stage II. The SSB interview lasts for five days, followed by medical examinations for those who clear the second stage. Candidates recommended for training will receive joining letters based on merit and availability of vacancies, subject to fulfilling all eligibility requirements.

IIT Kanpur is achieving significant breakthroughs in defense innovation with the development of a new indigenous drone tailored for the Indian Army. This drone, referred to as a ‘swadeshi’ variant of the Kamikaze drone, represents a sophisticated advancement aimed explicitly at enhancing military capabilities in operational environments. The design and engineering behind the drone have been spearheaded by experts from the institute, who have concentrated on ensuring its utility in battlefield conditions.

The drone is equipped to locate and neutralize enemy tanks, weaponry, and personnel within minutes, showcasing its utility in critical military situations. Early testing within IIT Kanpur’s laboratories has yielded encouraging results, and should the Indian Army endorse the project, comprehensive trials are anticipated to commence within six to eight months.

Over a development span of two and a half years by the Aerospace Engineering Department at IIT Kanpur, the drone has evolved into a functional prototype with a carrying capacity of up to 2 kilograms. Professor Subramanyam Saderla outlined that the drone operates at a speed range of 35 to 40 kilometers per hour but has the potential to accelerate to as much as 180 kilometers per hour. It boasts a minimum operational range of 100 kilometers, which can be adjusted according to mission requirements. This high-capacity drone marks a first for the Indian military landscape.

Looking towards the strategic market, the exact production expenses are still being finalized; however, IIT Kanpur aims for a revenue target of Rs 1,500 crore from this drone technology within the next five years. Professor Saderla detailed that this drone functions as a ‘suicide drone,’ indicating its capacity to engage targets autonomously while remaining under comprehensive military control; operators can destroy the drone if required post-launch.

In terms of features and operational capabilities, the drone utilizes a rechargeable power system, offering an endurance of 3 to 4 hours on a single charge. It is equipped with infrared sensors and GPS technology, delivering real-time, precise information on enemy locations which facilitates long-range surveillance and tracking. Additionally, its silent operation enhances its stealth capabilities, while the ability to capture high-definition photos and videos further bolsters its reconnaissance functionalities.

Recently, the drone caught the attention of Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, who visited IIT Kanpur and witnessed its capabilities firsthand, recognizing its potential significance for bolstering national defense mechanisms.

In a related development, IIT Kanpur previously introduced a pioneering solar-powered drone, named ‘Maral’, aimed at revolutionizing aerial surveillance. This innovative design, developed in partnership with industry leaders, integrates solar panels to empower the drone to operate independently on sunlight. This leap towards sustainable aviation technology is set to redefine operational standards in surveillance, diminishing reliance on conventional fuel sources.

With Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasizing India’s ambition to emerge as a leader in drone technology, such innovations underscore the urgent need for modern defense solutions. Addressing the recent Delhi Defence Dialogue, Singh highlighted how these advancements fit within the frameworks of Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, projecting their potential to significantly bolster the Indian economy.

Kamikaze drones, often described as loitering munitions or suicide drones, are unmanned aerial systems designed to engage and destroy targets by crashing into them. Their prevalence has been observed in contemporary conflicts, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the hostilities between Israel and Hamas, validating the growing role of such technologies in modern warfare strategies.

In response to a shocking incident involving the alleged custodial assault of an Army captain, the Indian Army has initiated a dedicated 24/7 helpline for both soldiers and veterans. This new service can be accessed through the helpline number 155306, which is designed to provide immediate assistance in emergency situations, particularly in cases of physical assault. However, it is important to note that the helpline will not address non-crisis issues such as land disputes or marital conflicts.

According to reports, calls made to this helpline will be recorded, ensuring that each case can be followed up efficiently. The system will be bolstered by coordinated efforts with provost units and civil authorities, thereby facilitating quick responses nationwide. This development comes against a backdrop of rising concerns regarding the safety and security of military personnel.

The recent case that prompted this initiative involved an Army officer who reportedly faced custodial abuse, along with allegations of sexual harassment against his fiancée, at the Bharatpur police station on the night of September 14-15. The couple had visited the police station to lodge a complaint about a road rage incident when the alleged abuses occurred. This incident not only sparked outrage but also led to significant embarrassment for the Odisha police.

In light of these events, the Indian Army has expressed its serious concerns to the Odisha government, which has since taken action by suspending five police officers involved in the case. Additionally, a Crime Branch investigation has been ordered to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding this incident.

The establishment of the helpline represents a proactive step by the Indian Army to bolster the support mechanisms available for its personnel, reflecting a commitment to addressing the safety and well-being of both active soldiers and veterans in the face of mounting challenges.

A profound sense of sorrow enveloped Barnog village in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, on Tuesday as the community gathered to pay their last respects to Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar. The arrival of his mortal remains was met with heartfelt tributes and emotional farewells from family, friends, and residents, who filled the area with chants of “Jai Hind” amid their mourning.

Rakesh Kumar, whose life was tragically cut short during a gunfight with terrorists in Kishtwar district, had recently returned home on leave. His family had been looking forward to his plans to rebuild their home, which was damaged during monsoon rains the previous year. Speaking of their loss, his brother Karam Singh recounted, “Our ten-room house was damaged last year, and we were living in a rented house. Rakesh had promised to start the construction of the new house in January.”

The family is left to grieve the loss of Rakesh Kumar, who is survived by his wife, Bhanupriya, their 13-year-old daughter Yashshwini, 7-year-old son Pranav, and his 90-year-old mother, Bhati Devi. His remains were transported by a special Army helicopter, which landed at the Kangni helipad on Monday afternoon. From there, they were taken to Ner Chowk Medical College before reaching the family’s home in Barnog on Tuesday morning.

Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar served with valor in the Army’s 2 Para and was killed while engaged in action against terrorists who were implicated in the kidnapping and murder of two Village Defence Guards (VDGs) in the area. The shocking killings prompted a significant combing operation by security forces throughout Kuntwara and Keshwan, with special forces commandos aggressively pursuing the terrorists believed to be involved. The Kashmir Tigers, a faction linked to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), claimed responsibility for the attack on the VDGs.

This year’s violence in the region has escalated, with 16 security personnel, 10 civilians, and three VDGs reported killed in various attacks across Jammu. Security forces, in response, have also managed to neutralize 13 terrorists in the area. In a separate wave of violence in Kashmir, nine security personnel and 15 civilians lost their lives as a result of terrorist activities, while 24 terrorists were killed by security forces.

As the villagers and family members gathered to honor Rakesh Kumar’s sacrifice, the weight of their loss served as a somber reminder of the ongoing struggles faced in the region due to terrorist activities, and the further call to action for safety and justice.

A heavy cloud of sorrow loomed over Barnog village in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district as the local community mourned the loss of Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar, a Junior Commissioned Officer who was killed in a firefight with terrorists in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir. His body was brought back to his home on a special Army helicopter and the atmosphere was charged with conflicting emotions, where cries of “Jai Hind” echoed alongside the deep sorrow felt by his family and villagers, who gathered in large numbers to pay their respects.

Rakesh Kumar, a dedicated soldier of the Army’s 2 Para unit, tragically lost his life on Sunday while engaged in operations against terrorists who had recently abducted and killed two Village Defence Guards (VDGs). His brother, Karam Singh, revealed that Rakesh had been in the process of planning to rebuild their family home, which had been damaged by monsoon rains, and was making arrangements to commence the construction in January. The family has been residing in rented accommodation since that time.

Rakesh is survived by his wife, Bhanupriya, and their two young children: thirteen-year-old daughter Yashashwini and seven-year-old son Pranav. He is also survived by his elderly mother, Bhati Devi, who is 90 years old. The depth of the loss was palpable as the community rallied to support the grieving family.

Rakesh’s remains were first transported to Kangni helipad and later to Ner Chowk Medical College before being returned to his village for the final rites, underscoring the gravity of his sacrifice. The firefight that claimed his life also resulted in injuries to three other soldiers as they were pursuing the terrorists involved in the recent attacks that had destabilized the region.

The situation in Kishtwar remains tense, exacerbated by the terrorist faction linked to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) claiming responsibility for the abduction and killings of the VDGs. In an effort to restore security, extensive search operations have been launched in the Kuntwara and Keshwan areas, with special forces commandos spearheading the efforts.

This year alone, Jammu has witnessed a significant toll, with 16 security personnel, 10 civilians, and three VDGs reported killed in various incidents. In a response to these threats, security forces have been proactive, neutralizing 13 terrorists in the area, while Kashmir has seen an additional nine personnel and 15 civilians fall victim to terror attacks, resulting in the elimination of 24 terrorists by security forces.

As the village of Barnog laid Rakesh Kumar to rest, the memory of his bravery and commitment to duty will endure, a testament to the sacrifices made by soldiers in the fight against terror, and a poignant reminder of the impact of such loss on families and communities.

The Indian Army’s motorcycle expedition team has successfully concluded a three-day journey through the breathtaking and rugged landscapes of eastern Arunachal Pradesh, covering a distance of 550 kilometers. This expedition, which aims to commemorate the heroic sacrifices made during the Battle of Walong in 1962, was officially flagged off at the Walong War Memorial.

The riders, comprising 20 members of the Indian Army alongside local adventure enthusiasts, kicked off their journey from Dibang Valley on November 9. Their itinerary took them through several picturesque locations including Roing, Tezu, and the vibrant village of Hayuliang, ultimately culminating at the historic site of Walong in Anjaw district.

Throughout the expedition, participants navigated challenging mountainous paths and encountered diverse weather conditions, evoking the resilience displayed by soldiers who valiantly defended India’s northeastern frontier during the tumultuous 1962 Sino-India conflict. The initiative serves to honor the bravery and commitments of these soldiers, particularly during the intense confrontations experienced in the unforgiving terrains of Kibithu, Namti Tri Junction, and other critical areas within Arunachal Pradesh.

The expedition not only retraced historic routes but also symbolized the Indian Army’s dedication to promoting national unity and adventure tourism in border regions. As riders made stops along the way, they engaged with local communities, fostering connections that emphasize the strength, resilience, and solidarity vital to the region’s identity.

This motorcycle expedition is part of the broader month-long celebrations that commenced on October 17, marking the 62nd anniversary of the Battle of Walong. The event highlights the Army’s ongoing efforts to honor the legacy of those who fought for India while encouraging an adventurous spirit among local populations and fostering a sense of national integration.

In a significant move aimed at bolstering the safety and security of soldiers and veterans, the Indian Army has launched a round-the-clock helpline service, designated 155306. This initiative comes in the wake of a distressing custodial assault involving an Army officer and his fiancée in Odisha, highlighting the urgent need for immediate support for personnel facing emergencies or violent incidents.

The helpline will be manned by trained Military Police personnel, comprising both male and female staff, ensuring a comprehensive support system is available to all callers. Each call received through this dedicated line will be recorded, facilitating efficient follow-up actions in response to reported incidents. The Army’s plans include coordinated efforts with provost units, which are specialized military police units tasked with maintaining law and order within the armed forces, as well as with civil authorities to ensure swift action can be undertaken nationwide.

Importantly, the helpline is designed to be easily accessible across the country, operating without the need for a prefix and compatible with all major telecom providers. When a call is received, callers are required to provide details about their service and a brief description of the incident they are reporting. Subsequently, the helpline’s helpdesk will liaise with the nearest Provost Police unit to coordinate an appropriate response. To ensure that no case goes unattended, call management software will be utilized to systematically track each incident and guarantee that follow-through is achieved.

The Army has emphasized that this helpline is strictly intended for emergency situations and will not address non-crisis issues, such as land disputes or marital conflicts. This delineation serves to concentrate resources on urgent matters, particularly in light of increasing concerns regarding assaults on military personnel.

The initiative follows serious incidents such as the custodial assault reported on September 15, when the officer and his fiancée were reportedly ambushed by miscreants in Bhubaneswar the previous day. This specific case has elicited heightened vigilance from the Army, leading them to engage with the Odisha government to demand swift action. The investigation into this incident has since been transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), underscoring the gravity of the situation.

As the helpline goes into operation, it represents a proactive approach by the Indian Army to enhance the welfare and security of its personnel, reinforcing their commitment to the safety of those who serve the nation.