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.
Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, Army Commander, Northern Command, accompanied by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Red Eagle Division, conducted a comprehensive review of the operational preparedness of the Ayodhya Brigade.
During the visit, Lt Gen Suchindra Kumar assessed the brigade’s combat readiness and overall operational capabilities.
The Army Commander commended the troops for their dedication and professionalism, urging them to continue maintaining the highest standards of operational readiness in service of the nation.
In his address to the soldiers, Lt Gen Kumar emphasized the significance of operational preparedness and the responsibility of safeguarding the country’s security.
His visit highlights the ongoing commitment of the Indian Army to ensuring peak operational effectiveness in critical regions.
The Indian Army Aviation Corps stands as a distinguished arm of the Indian Army, playing a pivotal role in various operational capacities, including combat support, reconnaissance, and logistical assistance.
For those aspiring to serve their nation while pursuing a career in aviation, joining this elite corps presents an exciting opportunity filled with adventure, discipline, and honor. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps, eligibility criteria, selection process, and training involved in becoming a part of the Army Aviation Corps.
The roots of the Army Aviation Corps can be traced back to the Army Aviation Wing of the Royal Air Force in India during World War II. Initially tasked with artillery spotting, the evolution of this unit led to the establishment of the Army Aviation Corps on November 1, 1986.
This young corps quickly proved its mettle in significant operations, including “Operation Pawan” in Sri Lanka, marking its entry into the realm of military aviation.
Current Role and Responsibilities
Today, the Army Aviation Corps is integral to the Indian Army, providing essential support in various missions. Its primary responsibilities include:
Combat Search and Rescue:Â Engaging in operations to locate and extract injured soldiers from hostile environments.
Medical Evacuations:Â Facilitating the swift transport of injured personnel to medical facilities.
Logistical Support:Â Delivering supplies and equipment to remote and challenging terrains, especially during natural disasters.
Reconnaissance Missions:Â Conducting aerial surveillance to gather intelligence and assess battlefield conditions.
Fleet Overview
The Army Aviation Corps operates a diverse fleet of helicopters, each serving unique operational purposes. Some notable aircraft include:
Aircraft
Type
Speed (Km/h)
Range (Km)
Service Ceiling (m)
HAL Dhruv
Multi-role
250
620
6000
HAL Cheetah
Utility
190
500
5400
HAL Chetak
Transport
200
550
3200
Boeing Apache AH-64E
Attack
290
470
6000
Eligibility Criteria
Nationality and Age
To be considered for the Army Aviation Corps, candidates must be Indian citizens. The age requirements vary based on the entry scheme, but generally, applicants should be between 19 to 27 years old.
Educational Qualifications
Candidates must have completed their higher secondary education (10+2) with Physics and Mathematics as mandatory subjects. A minimum aggregate score of 50% in these subjects is typically required.
Marital Status
While some entry schemes may require candidates to be unmarried, others may permit married individuals to apply.
Physical and Medical Standards
Physical fitness is crucial for candidates aspiring to join the Army Aviation Corps. Applicants must meet specific height, weight, and vision standards as laid out by the Indian Army’s medical guidelines.
Entry Schemes Available
Cadets in training can apply for Army Aviation during their course, and selection will depend on their merit, performance, and the availability of vacancies in Army Aviation at that time.
Serving officers may also apply for Indian Army Aviation when vacancies are announced.
National Defence Academy (NDA) Entry
NDA entry is an option for those who have completed their 10+2 education. Candidates must pass a written examination followed by an interview conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB).
Graduates can apply through the CDSE, which is conducted twice a year by the UPSC. Successful candidates will then undergo the SSB interview.
Technical Graduate Course (TGC)
Engineering graduates can apply through the TGC entry scheme. Candidates are shortlisted based on academic performance and subsequently called for an SSB interview.
Other Entries
Candidates joining from entries like SSC Tech and NCC Special entry can also opt for Army aviation.
Selection Process
Written Examination
Depending on the entry scheme, candidates must appear for a written examination. This exam assesses general knowledge, aptitude, and proficiency in the English language. It is crucial to consult official notifications for the syllabus and exam pattern.
Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview
The SSB interview is a comprehensive evaluation that includes psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews. This stage assesses the candidate’s personality, intelligence, and suitability for a career in the armed forces.
Medical Examination
A thorough medical examination ensures candidates meet the prescribed health standards. This includes physical measurements, vision tests, and overall fitness assessments.
Merit List and Final Selection
Following the completion of the written exam, SSB interview, and medical examination, a merit list is compiled. Final selection is based on candidates’ rankings in the merit list and the availability of vacancies.
Training at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CATS)
Overview of Training
Once selected, candidates undergo rigorous training at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CATS) located in Nashik, Maharashtra. The training program is designed to develop aviation skills, physical fitness, and leadership qualities.
Training Modules
The training curriculum includes:
Theoretical Classes:Â Covering aviation principles, aircraft systems, and operational tactics.
Practical Training:Â Hands-on experience with helicopters and aircraft.
Simulated Flight Exercises:Â Utilizing simulators to prepare for various flying conditions and emergencies.
Combat Training:Â Engaging in exercises that simulate real-world combat scenarios.
Simulator Training
CATS has introduced advanced simulators that allow trainees to experience different weather conditions and terrains. This innovative approach minimizes risks during training while enhancing pilots’ preparedness for diverse operational challenges.
Career Progression
Opportunities for Growth
Joining the Army Aviation Corps opens doors to various career advancement opportunities. As pilots gain experience, they can take on leadership roles, participate in specialized training, and even pursue advanced aviation certifications.
Specialized Roles
Within the Army Aviation Corps, there are specialized roles available, including:
Test Pilots:Â Responsible for evaluating new aircraft and conducting flight tests.
Instructor Pilots:Â Training new recruits and sharing their expertise.
Operational Planners:Â Involved in strategizing and planning aviation operations.
Challenges Faced by Candidates
Physical Demands
The rigorous physical standards set by the Indian Army can be a challenge for many candidates. Maintaining optimal fitness levels is crucial for success in both the selection process and training.
Mental Resilience
The selection process is not only physically demanding but also mentally challenging. Candidates must demonstrate resilience and adaptability throughout the various stages.
Balancing Academics and Training
For those pursuing a degree while preparing for entry into the Army Aviation Corps, striking a balance between academic commitments and training can be demanding.
Candidates should utilize various study materials, including:
Official Syllabus:Â Understanding the specific subjects and topics covered in the written examination.
Mock Tests:Â Practicing with previous years’ question papers to familiarize themselves with the exam format.
Physical Training Regimens:Â Engaging in fitness programs to meet the physical standards required by the Army.
Joining Coaching Institutes
Many aspirants benefit from enrolling in coaching institutes that specialize in defense services preparation. These institutes provide structured guidance and mentorship to help candidates excel.
The Role of Women in the Army Aviation Corps
Breaking Barriers
The inclusion of women in the Army Aviation Corps marks a significant step towards gender equality in the armed forces. Captain Abhilasha Barak made history as the first woman officer to join the corps, inspiring many others to pursue their dreams in aviation.
Opportunities for Female Candidates
Women can now explore various roles within the Army Aviation Corps, including pilot positions and support roles, contributing to the Corps’ operational capabilities.
Future of the Army Aviation Corps
Modernization Initiatives
The Indian Army is committed to modernizing its aviation capabilities. Plans are underway to induct advanced helicopters and enhance operational efficiency to meet evolving challenges.
Strategic Importance
As the Army Aviation Corps continues to expand its fleet and capabilities, its role in future conflicts and humanitarian missions will become increasingly vital. The Corps is poised to play a crucial part in the Indian Army’s strategic framework.
Joining the Army Aviation Corps offers an unparalleled opportunity to serve your nation while embarking on a rewarding career in aviation. By understanding the eligibility requirements, navigating the selection process, and committing to rigorous training, aspiring candidates can make their dream of flying with the Indian Army a reality. Embrace this journey of honor, adventure, and service, and contribute to the defense and progress of your nation.
Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), visited the Directorate General Medical Services (Army) to assess key operations and services.
During the visit, the Flag Officer was thoroughly briefed on various aspects of medical services within the Army Medical Corps (AMC), including Hospital Services, Operational Medical Logistics, the status of IT and Digitization, Operational Readiness, and Human Resource management, both in Field and Peace locations.
Surgeon Vice Admiral Sarin expressed her appreciation for the comprehensive efforts being made by Lieutenant General Sadhna S Nair, Director General Medical Services (Army), and her team.
She commended their dedication to providing holistic healthcare to troops, ex-servicemen, and their families.
The DGAFMS emphasized the importance of continued operational preparedness and the ongoing work in enhancing medical logistics and healthcare services across the AMC.
This visit underscores the ongoing commitment of the Armed Forces Medical Services to improving health care and medical readiness for the Indian Army personnel and their families.
