In response to a surge in bomb threats targeting flights, the central government has decided to double the deployment of sky marshals on flights originating from airports across the country. This decision comes after multiple rounds of consultations and assessments by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), based on inputs from intelligence agencies.
A senior MHA official confirmed that the additional air marshals will be deployed particularly on new international routes classified as sensitive based on intelligence reports.
“The decision to bolster the number of air marshals was taken after reviewing the growing security threat,” the official stated, adding that the move aims to enhance in-flight security against potential hijacking and terrorism.
Sky Marshals, who are armed plainclothes security officers, have been part of India’s aviation security framework since 1999, following the hijacking of Air India IC 814. These officers are trained to intervene in case of any hijacking attempts, traveling with firearms onboard commercial aircraft.
The National Security Guard (NSG), a specialized anti-terrorism and anti-hijacking unit, deploys these air marshals primarily on international routes and some sensitive domestic routes. Currently, flights bound for regions such as Kabul (Afghanistan), Kathmandu (Nepal), Colombo (Sri Lanka), certain routes in Canada, and several Middle Eastern countries are considered sensitive.
The number of sky marshals on a flight typically ranges from two to six, depending on the assessed threat level.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has also convened a high-level meeting following more than 10 bomb threats received via social media in recent days. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu held discussions with the Bureau of Civil Aviation, CISF, and other airport security officials to address the issue.
This increased vigilance underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening aviation security in light of escalating threats and ensuring passenger safety on high-risk routes.
In a significant move, the Union government has ordered the complete withdrawal of the National Security Guard (NSG) commandos from providing security to nine ‘high-risk’ VIPs, transferring these duties to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The transition, which falls under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), is expected to be completed within a month, according to official sources.
The CRPF will take over the protection of these ‘Z plus’ category VIPs, which include prominent political figures such as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, former Chief Minister and BSP leader Mayawati, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, former Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani, and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, among others. These individuals have been under the protection of NSG ‘black cat’ commandos for several years.
To accommodate the new responsibility, a fresh CRPF battalion, which was recently withdrawn from Parliament security duties, has been sanctioned for VIP protection. This additional battalion will complement the six existing CRPF VIP security battalions.
The MHA has decided to relieve the NSG from VIP security duties to allow the elite force to focus on its core responsibilities of counter-terrorism and counter-hijack operations. This decision follows years of planning, with officials highlighting the need for the NSG to be available for rapid deployment in the event of simultaneous terror attacks across the country.
Among the nine VIPs, two—Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath—will receive advanced security liaison (ASL) protocol from the CRPF. ASL involves advance reconnaissance of locations to be visited by the VIP to ensure heightened security.
This restructuring of security forces reflects the government’s broader strategy to strengthen the country’s counter-terrorism capabilities by deploying the NSG’s resources in high-risk areas such as the Ram temple in Ayodhya and critical southern assets.
The Services Selection Board (SSB) interview is a rigorous selection process designed to identify potential candidates for the Indian Armed Forces. One of the most disheartening outcomes for candidates is receiving a “conference out” status. This term refers to a situation where the board collectively decides not to recommend a candidate for further selection, often leaving them feeling disheartened and confused.
What Does Conference Out Mean?
When a candidate is conference out, it signifies that, despite performing well in various assessments, they did not meet the overall criteria set by the board. This decision can stem from multiple factors, including:
Lack of Leadership Qualities: The board looks for specific traits indicative of future leaders.
Inadequate Performance in Group Tasks: Team dynamics play a crucial role in the selection process.
Insufficient Communication Skills: Clarity and confidence in expression are vital.
The Emotional Impact
Experiencing a conference out can evoke a myriad of emotions, including disappointment, frustration, and self-doubt. It’s essential to acknowledge these feelings but not let them define your journey.
1. Accepting the Situation
Embrace Your Feelings
Feeling upset after a rejection is entirely normal. Allow yourself to process these emotions, but set a limit on how long you dwell on them.
Take Time to Reflect: Spend a day or two contemplating your feelings.
Understand It’s Part of the Journey: Many successful candidates have faced rejection before achieving their goals.
Shift Your Perspective
Instead of viewing this setback as a failure, consider it an opportunity for growth.
Reframe Your Thoughts: Focus on what you can learn from this experience rather than what you lost.
Remember Past Successes: Reflect on previous achievements to regain confidence.
2. Analyzing Your Performance
Self-Reflection
Once the initial shock has subsided, it’s time to engage in self-reflection.
Review Your Experience: Go through each day of the SSB process in your mind.
Identify Areas for Improvement: Note down specific instances where you felt you could have performed better.
Seek Feedback
Sometimes, self-analysis may not be enough.
Talk to Peers: Engage with fellow candidates who attended the same SSB.
Consult Mentors: Reach out to seniors or coaches who can provide insights into your performance.
Learning from Mistakes
Document Your Findings
Create a detailed account of your observations and feedback received.
Make a List of Weaknesses: Highlight areas that need improvement.
Set Goals: Establish specific, measurable goals for each area identified.
Develop a Growth Mindset
Approach the process of improvement with an open mind.
Be Open to Criticism: Accept constructive feedback as a tool for growth.
Focus on Continuous Learning: Embrace the idea that improvement is an ongoing journey.
3. Creating a New Strategy
Set Clear Objectives
Once you have identified your weaknesses, it’s time to create a roadmap for improvement.
Short-Term Goals: Focus on immediate areas that need attention.
Long-Term Vision: Keep your ultimate goal in mind and plan accordingly.
Design a Structured Plan
A well-structured plan can provide clarity and direction.
Daily Routine: Incorporate activities that address your weaknesses.
Practice Regularly: Engage in mock interviews and group discussions to enhance your skills.
4. Building Confidence
Practice Makes Perfect
Confidence often comes from preparation.
Engage in Mock Sessions: Participate in practice interviews and group tasks.
Simulate Real Scenarios: Create scenarios that mimic the SSB environment to build familiarity.
Positive Affirmations
Utilize the power of positive thinking to boost your self-esteem.
Daily Affirmations: Start each day with motivational statements about your capabilities.
Visualize Success: Spend time visualizing yourself succeeding in future attempts.
5. Staying Motivated
Surround Yourself with Positivity
The company you keep can significantly influence your mindset.
Join Support Groups: Engage with fellow aspirants who share similar goals.
Seek Inspiration: Read success stories of individuals who overcame rejection.
Set Milestones
Celebrate small victories along the way to maintain motivation.
Track Your Progress: Keep a journal to document your journey.
Reward Yourself: Treat yourself for achieving specific goals, no matter how small.
6. Preparing for the Next Attempt
Understand the SSB Format
Familiarize yourself with the SSB process to avoid past mistakes.
Study the Selection Criteria: Understand what the board looks for in candidates.
Review Previous Experiences: Learn from both your own and others’ experiences.
Continuous Learning
Commit to ongoing education and skill enhancement.
Read Relevant Literature: Explore books and articles that focus on leadership and communication.
Attend Workshops: Participate in workshops or seminars to refine your skills.
7. Engaging with the Community
Networking
Building a network can provide valuable insights and support.
Connect with Alumni: Reach out to past candidates who have successfully cleared the SSB.
Join Online Forums: Participate in discussions on platforms dedicated to defence aspirants.
Share Your Experience
Discussing your journey can be therapeutic and informative for others.
Write About Your Experience: Consider blogging or sharing your story on social media.
Mentor Others: Offer guidance to those who are just starting their SSB preparations.
8. Maintaining a Balanced Life
Physical Well-Being
Your physical health plays a crucial role in mental resilience.
Exercise Regularly: Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Nourish your body with healthy foods to maintain energy levels.
Mental Health
Prioritize your mental well-being during this challenging time.
Practice Mindfulness: Engage in meditation or yoga to enhance focus and reduce stress.
Seek Professional Help if Needed: Don’t hesitate to consult a mental health professional if feelings of despair persist.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
Experiencing a conference out in the SSB interview may feel like a significant setback, but it can also serve as a stepping stone toward success.
Embrace the Journey: Understand that every experience contributes to your growth.
Stay Committed: Keep your goals in sight and work diligently toward them.
By taking proactive steps, analyzing your performance, and maintaining a positive outlook, you can transform this experience into a powerful motivator for your future endeavors. Remember, the journey toward becoming an officer is filled with challenges, but each setback brings you one step closer to achieving your dreams.
Always keep in mind that “Yes, You Have It In You!”
So, stay curious and be active on SSBCrack for motivation, success stories, and general knowledge.
Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, VSM, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air), visited INS Parundu, the strategically important naval air station under the Eastern Naval Command, located near Uchipuli in the Ramanathapuram district. The Admiral’s visit focused on reviewing the operational, technical, and infrastructural status of the station.
During his visit, Rear Admiral Bevli addressed all personnel stationed at INS Parundu, commending their ongoing efforts and dedication.
He also highlighted the station’s upcoming projects, especially in the area of Naval Aviation, emphasizing the significance of enhancing operational capabilities to support future naval operations.
INS Parundu, which was formerly known as the Ramnad Civil Aerodrome, has seen substantial upgrades over the years and now serves as a vital hub for Indian naval operations in the region.
Strategically located between the Rameswaram National Highway and the railway track leading to Rameswaram, INS Parundu plays a crucial role in naval aviation and coastal defense in Southern India.
The Admiral’s visit underscores the importance of continuously developing naval infrastructure and capabilities to ensure readiness for future challenges in the maritime domain.
Vikas Yadav, a former officer of India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), has found himself at the center of a major international controversy following allegations that he was involved in a plot to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent Sikh separatist leader advocating for an independent Khalistan.
Pannun, who holds dual citizenship in the United States and Canada, is known for his vocal advocacy for the Khalistan movement, which seeks to establish a sovereign Sikh state. The US Department of Justice has accused Yadav of orchestrating a foiled attempt on Pannun’s life, raising significant concerns about foreign intelligence operations on American soil.
Who Is Vikas Yadav?
Vikas Yadav, 39, once held a pivotal position within RAW, India’s premier intelligence agency responsible for foreign intelligence gathering and national security. With an extensive background in security management and intelligence operations, Yadav’s career had reportedly included stints with India’s Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), where he received specialized training in battle tactics and weaponry.
Yadav’s role within RAW placed him in a position of significant responsibility. However, his fall from grace began when he was accused by US authorities of orchestrating a murder-for-hire scheme to eliminate Pannun. The plot allegedly involved Yadav hiring individuals to carry out the assassination, with Nikhil Gupta, another Indian national, serving as a key co-conspirator.
Gupta’s arrest in Prague and subsequent extradition to the US helped thwart the assassination attempt, but not before the scandal made international headlines.
The Alleged Assassination Plot
According to US authorities, Yadav and his accomplices conspired to assassinate Gurpatwant Pannun during the summer of 2023. The plot came to light when an informant, who had been hired to carry out the hit, turned out to be working with the FBI. Yadav had reportedly offered $100,000 to the assassin, with a down payment of $15,000 made in a car in New York City. The assassination was intended to silence Pannun’s Khalistani activities and to retaliate against his vocal separatist campaign.
US prosecutors have outlined that Yadav, operating from India, coordinated the entire scheme. Despite India’s strong stance against separatist movements like Khalistan, the Indian government has officially denied any involvement in the assassination plot, distancing itself from Yadav, who, according to Indian officials, is no longer an employee of the Indian government.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
The US Department of Justice has charged Vikas Yadav with conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire and money laundering. He is now a wanted fugitive, with the FBI issuing a “wanted” notice for his arrest. The charges against Yadav not only underscore the serious nature of the allegations but also reflect the growing international concern over foreign intelligence agencies allegedly carrying out covert operations on foreign soil.
Christopher Wray, Director of the FBI, has condemned the plot, stating that the FBI will not tolerate acts of violence against individuals in the US, especially those exercising constitutionally protected rights, such as free speech. US Attorney General Merrick B. Garland echoed these sentiments, reaffirming the Justice Department’s commitment to protecting the safety of all US citizens.
Diplomatic Tensions and International Fallout
The allegations against Vikas Yadav have significantly strained diplomatic relations between the US and India. While the Indian government has set up an inquiry committee to investigate the matter, it has maintained that Yadav acted independently and without official backing. The US, for its part, has expressed satisfaction with India’s cooperation in the ongoing investigation but continues to push for accountability.
This case highlights the complexities of intelligence operations and the blurred lines between national security interests and illegal activities. It also brings to the forefront the issue of political dissidents and the lengths to which governments may go to silence opposition voices.
Who Is Gurpatwant Singh Pannun?
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the target of the assassination plot, is a US-based lawyer and leader of the banned organization Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). Pannun has long been an outspoken advocate for Khalistan, often accusing the Indian government of human rights violations against Sikhs.
The Indian government has labeled SFJ a terrorist organization, and Pannun himself has been accused of inciting violence and separatism. His activities have made him a target for those opposing the Khalistan movement, but Pannun continues to exercise his right to free speech, particularly from his base in the US, where such activities are protected under the First Amendment.
The Broader Context
The case of Vikas Yadav and the plot to assassinate Gurpatwant Pannun shines a light on the intricate and sometimes dangerous world of international intelligence operations. It also raises questions about the role of governments in targeting dissidents abroad and the extent to which they will go to protect national security interests.
For India, the accusations come at a time when the country is working to bolster its international image and strengthen diplomatic ties, particularly with the United States. For the US, the case underscores the challenges of balancing the protection of free speech with the need to ensure national security in the face of potential foreign interference.
The investigation into Yadav’s actions is ongoing, and the outcome will likely have significant ramifications not just for US-India relations but also for the broader global intelligence community. For now, Yadav remains at large, and the search for answers continues.
Air Marshal Rajesh Vaidya, Director General Medical Services (Air) (#DGMSAir), visited the 92 Base Hospital at Badami Bagh Cantonment, Srinagar, a vital medical facility for the Armed Forces and the local population.
During his visit, Air Marshal Vaidya interacted with the hospital staff, praising their unwavering dedication and encouraging them to continue maintaining high standards in medical care for Armed Forces personnel, their dependents, and veterans.
The Air Marshal also commended the staff for their efficient execution of the Trauma Drill at the Trauma Care Centre, highlighting the hospital’s preparedness in handling emergencies and complex medical situations.
He acknowledged the team’s significant efforts in aligning with the broader vision of “Vikshit Bharat” (Developed India), reflecting the Armed Forces’ commitment to nation-building and holistic development.
The 92 Base Hospital, with its 598-bed capacity, serves as a multi-specialty facility offering a range of services such as ENT, Ophthalmology, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, and Gynecology.
Located in the Badami Bagh Cantonment area, it plays a critical role in providing healthcare not only to military personnel but also to civilians in the Kashmir Valley. Often referred to as the “lifeline” for security forces in the region, the hospital’s importance is heightened by the challenging operational environment in Jammu and Kashmir.
Air Marshal Vaidya’s visit reaffirmed the Indian Air Force’s focus on the well-being of its personnel, and his words of encouragement further boosted the morale of the hospital staff, who continue to provide essential healthcare services under demanding conditions.
In a prestigious commissioning ceremony held today at the Army Medical Corps Centre & College (#AMCCentre&College), Lt Gen Shivinder Singh, Commandant, officially commissioned 16 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) and other ranks into the Non-Technical Cadre of the Army Medical Corps (#AMC).
The ceremony, marked by military pride and tradition, symbolizes the significant contribution of these newly commissioned personnel to the Army Medical Corps.
Their commissioning into the non-technical cadre ensures that they will play crucial roles in supporting the healthcare and operational needs of the Indian Army.
The Army Medical Corps Centre & College, located in Lucknow, is renowned for producing top-tier medical professionals and non-technical personnel who serve in various capacities across the Indian Army.
Lt Gen Shivinder Singh praised the newly commissioned soldiers for their commitment and emphasized the importance of their roles in ensuring the well-being of troops and contributing to the operational success of the Army.
In addition, the ASC Centre & College (Army Service Corps Centre and College) in Bengaluru, Karnataka, continues to be a prestigious educational institution providing quality education to the children of army personnel. The institution offers a well-rounded education, focusing on academic
Air Marshal P M Sinha, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C), Western Air Command (WAC), conducted a two-day visit to two frontline fighter bases in the Western Sector from 15th to 16th October 2024.
During his visit, Air Marshal Sinha interacted with air warriors and conducted a thorough review of the operational status of the bases.
The Air Marshal expressed his appreciation for the high morale of the personnel and the exemplary maintenance of operational infrastructure.
His visit reaffirmed the commitment of the Western Air Command to maintaining peak operational readiness and ensuring that the fighter bases are equipped to handle any challenges.
The interactions provided Air Marshal Sinha an opportunity to commend the professionalism and dedication of the air warriors, further motivating them to continue upholding the highest standards of operational excellence.
Capt Manish Agri from the Sarvada Agrani Brigade (#SarvadaAgraniBde) engaged with the students of the Giani Zail Singh School of Architecture and Planning, Bathinda, in an inspiring interaction aimed at shaping the future of budding architects.
The event focused on the Indian Army’s engineering prospects and technical entry opportunities, sparking interest and igniting passion among the young minds.
Capt Manish shared valuable insights about the diverse roles the Indian Army offers for technical graduates, particularly in the field of engineering, and encouraged the students to explore these pathways.
His talk emphasized the Army’s commitment to youth empowerment and the significance of technical expertise in contributing to national security and development.
The session proved to be an eye-opener for many students, offering them a glimpse into the engineering challenges and opportunities within the Indian Army.
It highlighted how architecture and engineering students can channel their skills towards a fulfilling career in the Armed Forces.
The Formation Commanders’ Conference, hosted by the Sapta Shakti Command, took place from 15th to 16th October 2024.
The two-day conference was presided over by Lt Gen Manjinder Singh, Army Commander, South Western Command, and focused on critical areas such as Niche Technologies, Cyber Security, and Human Resource Management.
Throughout the discussions, Lt Gen Manjinder Singh emphasized the importance of achieving operational efficiency and meeting organizational goals through training and capability enhancement.
The conference underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to leveraging emerging technologies to bolster operational readiness and ensure cybersecurity in the modern battlefield environment.
The conference is part of the larger push under the “Year of Tech Absorption,” where the Indian Army is working towards integrating cutting-edge technologies and fostering synergy within the organization.
