In a significant step toward fostering innovation in India’s defence sector, the 505 Army Base Workshop in Delhi Cantt welcomed students from Amity University for an educational session on Armoured Fighting Vehicle (AFV) technology.
The initiative, aimed at knowledge-sharing, is part of a broader effort to support the #MakeInIndia and #AtmanirbharBharat campaigns, which emphasize self-reliance and indigenous production in defence manufacturing.
The event featured hands-on learning, with military personnel guiding students through the intricacies of AFV technology. Visuals from the session showed students observing and interacting with key vehicle components, including gear boxes and engines, in a workshop setting.
A formal discussion was also held in a conference room, where experts shared insights on the importance of technological advancements in defence systems. The room was adorned with portraits and awards, reflecting the workshop’s legacy of excellence.
This collaboration aligns with the Indian government’s push for indigenization, a policy reinforced by the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, which encourages domestic industries to reduce reliance on global supply chains.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has also been actively involved in similar efforts, developing technologies like active protection systems for armored vehicles to counter anti-armour threats, as noted on their official platform.
This initiative not only bridges the gap between academia and the military but also paves the way for future innovations in defence technology.
It complements other recent developments, such as the 2024-25 recruitment drive by the Army’s Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) at the same workshop, which aimed to build a skilled workforce to support India’s defence modernization goals. By empowering the next generation with expertise in indigenous tech, such efforts are set to strengthen India’s position in global defence production.
Lt Gen Navin Sachdeva, Chief of Staff (COS) of the Indian Army’s Central Command, also known as Surya Command, conducted a significant visit to an Infantry Battalion and the Headquarters of the Ibex Brigade. The visit aimed to assess the training, administrative, and operational preparedness of the unit and formation, which are stationed in a rugged, high-altitude region with snow-capped mountains in the backdrop, likely in the Himalayan terrain near the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.
During the visit, Lt Gen Sachdeva commended the Ibex Brigade for their high standards of training and operational readiness, particularly in such a challenging environment. He encouraged all ranks to continue striving for professional excellence in their endeavors, emphasizing the critical role of the brigade in maintaining security in this strategically sensitive area. The Ibex Brigade, known for its operations in demanding terrains, plays a vital role in safeguarding India’s northern borders.
The visit aligns with the Indian Army’s broader objectives for 2025, declared as the “Year of Defence Reforms” by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. This initiative focuses on modernizing the armed forces, enhancing jointness, integrating advanced technology, and improving operational efficiency. The Central Command’s focus on formations like the Ibex Brigade underscores the army’s commitment to ensuring combat readiness and capability development in high-altitude regions, which are critical for national security.
The event also highlighted the Indian Army’s ongoing transformation efforts, including capability development and operational synergy, as part of its long-term vision to become a future-ready force. The presence of senior military officials, including those from the Central Command, reflects the army’s emphasis on leadership engagement to maintain morale and operational effectiveness in remote and challenging areas.
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most prestigious and challenging competitive exams in India. Each year, thousands of aspirants dedicate years of hard work and perseverance to secure a coveted position in the civil services. In 2024, Shakti Dubey emerged as a beacon of excellence, clinching the top rank in this rigorous examination. This article delves into Shakti Dubey’s remarkable journey, the significance of the UPSC CSE, and the broader implications of these results for aspiring civil servants.
Shakti Dubey: A Profile of Excellence
Shakti Dubey’s achievement as the top scorer in the UPSC CSE 2024 is a testament to her dedication, strategic preparation, and unwavering focus. Hailing from a modest background, Dubey’s journey is inspiring for many. Her academic credentials, combined with a deep understanding of current affairs and a commitment to public service, set him apart from her peers.
Shakti Dubey was born and raised in a small town, where she developed a passion for learning at an early age. Her parents, both educators, instilled in him the values of hard work and integrity. After completing her schooling with excellent grades, she pursued higher education in a prestigious institution, where she honed her analytical skills and broadened her knowledge base.
Preparation Strategy
Dubey’s preparation for the UPSC CSE was marked by a well-structured study plan. She emphasized the importance of understanding the syllabus, regular revision, and practicing answer writing. Her approach included:
Comprehensive Reading: Dubey focused on a wide range of subjects, including history, geography, polity, and current affairs.
Mock Tests: Regular participation in mock tests helped him assess her performance and identify areas for improvement.
Time Management: She developed effective time management skills, ensuring that she balanced her studies with relaxation and physical fitness.
Inspirational Quotes
Throughout her journey, Dubey often shared motivational quotes that resonated with her peers. One of her favorites was, “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” This mindset fueled her determination and inspired others around him.
The UPSC CSE: An Overview
The UPSC CSE is not just an examination; it is a gateway to various prestigious civil services in India, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS). The examination consists of three stages: the Preliminary examination, the Main examination, and the Personality Test (Interview).
Examination Structure
Preliminary Examination: This stage consists of two objective-type papers that test candidates on general studies and aptitude.
Main Examination: Candidates who qualify the prelims move on to the mains, which includes nine papers, including essay writing and optional subjects.
Personality Test: The final stage assesses candidates’ personality traits, communication skills, and overall suitability for a career in civil services.
Importance of the UPSC CSE
The UPSC CSE plays a crucial role in shaping India’s administrative framework. Civil servants are responsible for implementing government policies, maintaining law and order, and ensuring the welfare of citizens. The examination not only tests knowledge but also evaluates critical thinking, decision-making, and ethical judgment.
The 2024 Results: A Closer Look
The UPSC announced the results for the 2024 CSE, revealing a total of 1,129 vacancies across various services. Shakti Dubey topped the list, followed by Harshita Goyal and Dongre Archit Parag, who secured the second and third ranks, respectively. This year’s results showcased a diverse group of candidates, reflecting the inclusive nature of the examination.
Breakdown of Vacancies
The vacancies for the 2024 cycle are distributed as follows:
Indian Administrative Service (IAS): 180 positions
Indian Foreign Service (IFS): 55 positions
Indian Police Service (IPS): 147 positions
Central Services Group ‘A’: 605 positions
Group ‘B’ Services: 142 positions
This distribution highlights the government’s commitment to filling essential roles within the civil services, ensuring that a wide array of talents and skills are represented.
Reserve List
In addition to the main list of successful candidates, the UPSC maintains a consolidated Reserve List. This year, the Reserve List includes candidates from various categories, ensuring representation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Scheduled Castes (SC), and Scheduled Tribes (ST).
The Journey Ahead for Toppers
For Shakti Dubey and her fellow toppers, the journey is just beginning. As they prepare to embark on their careers in public service, they carry the hopes and aspirations of countless individuals who look up to them as role models.
Training and Induction
Upon selection, candidates undergo rigorous training at various academies, where they learn the intricacies of governance, administration, and public policy. This training equips them with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of their roles effectively.
Challenges and Responsibilities
While the prestige of being a civil servant is undeniable, the responsibilities that come with the role are immense. Civil servants must be prepared to face challenges such as:
Public Accountability: They are accountable to the public and must ensure transparency in their actions.
Decision-Making Under Pressure: Civil servants often make critical decisions that impact the lives of citizens.
Continuous Learning: The dynamic nature of governance requires them to stay updated on policies, laws, and societal needs.
The Impact of Shakti Dubey’s Achievement
Shakti Dubey’s success serves as an inspiration for aspiring civil servants across the nation. Her journey underscores the importance of perseverance, strategic preparation, and a commitment to public service.
Encouraging Future Aspirants
Dubey’s achievement sends a powerful message to future aspirants: with dedication and the right approach, success is attainable. Her story encourages candidates to believe in their potential and strive for excellence.
The Role of Mentorship
Mentorship plays a crucial role in guiding aspirants through their preparation journey. Experienced mentors can provide valuable insights, share strategies, and offer emotional support, helping candidates navigate the challenges of the UPSC CSE.
Conclusion
Shakti Dubey’s remarkable achievement in the UPSC CSE 2024 is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for public service. As she embarks on her journey as a civil servant, she embodies the aspirations of countless individuals who dream of making a difference in society. The UPSC CSE remains a vital pathway for those seeking to serve the nation, and with role models like Dubey leading the way, the future of India’s civil services looks promising.
Director General of Police (DGP) of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Nalin Prabhat, concluded an operational review of Sopore and Baramulla districts on Tuesday, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures in the region. The visit included an inspection of the Forward Operating Base at Kreeri in Baramulla, a strategically significant area in North Kashmir. This follows a similar review conducted in the districts of Bandipore and Kupwara on April 18, 2025, as part of a broader effort to strengthen the security grid across the Kashmir Valley.
During his visit, DGP Prabhat, who assumed the role of DGP on October 1, 2024, engaged with local police personnel, reviewing operational preparedness and discussing strategies to address ongoing security challenges. Visuals from the visit showed the DGP interacting with officers, shaking hands, and inspecting equipment laid out at the base, underscoring his hands-on approach to leadership. The review comes at a critical time, as the region has witnessed a spike in terror attacks since mid-2021, with at least 26 incidents reported in the Jammu division alone, according to the South Asian Terrorism Portal.
Prabhat’s focus on North Kashmir aligns with his earlier commitments to prioritize friendly policing while tackling security threats, as highlighted during a meeting in Baramulla on December 7, 2024, where he stressed the importance of crime reduction and public cooperation. The DGP’s recent visits to forward operating bases in other regions, such as the Kathua-Doda border in January 2025, reflect a consistent strategy to bolster security forces’ readiness in combating terrorism across Jammu and Kashmir.
A 1992-batch IPS officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre, Nalin Prabhat brings extensive experience to his role, having previously served as the chief of the National Security Guard (NSG) and as Additional Director General in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), where he oversaw operations in the J&K zone. His appointment as DGP was seen as a strategic move by the Ministry of Home Affairs to address the evolving security dynamics in the Union Territory, particularly in light of increased terrorist activities following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
The operational reviews in Sopore, Baramulla, Bandipore, and Kupwara are part of a broader effort to strengthen the security apparatus in North Kashmir, a region that has faced significant challenges due to its proximity to areas known for militant activity. Security agencies have raised concerns about the infiltration of terrorist groups in the Jammu region, with a noticeable shift in focus from the Kashmir Valley to Jammu, as reported by Firstpost in July 2024. DGP Prabhat’s visits and reviews signal a proactive approach to counter these threats while ensuring the operational readiness of the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
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.
