In a recent visit to the Agnibaaz Division, Lieutenant General Adosh Kumar, AVSM, SM, Director General of Artillery, conducted a thorough assessment of the operational readiness of the formation. His visit centered around engaging with the troops and evaluating their preparedness, alongside felicitating outstanding performers who have exemplified exceptional skill and dedication.

During his interactions, Lt Gen Kumar emphasized the critical importance of continuously enhancing professional expertise within the artillery units. He highlighted the need for the integration of cutting-edge technologies and advanced tactical training to maintain and elevate the battle readiness of the forces.

The General Officer’s address to the troops stressed the evolving nature of modern warfare and the imperative for artillery units to remain at the forefront of technological adoption and strategic execution. He encouraged all ranks to embrace innovation and strive for tactical excellence as fundamental components of their operational strategy.

This visit underscores the commitment of the Indian Army’s artillery branch to maintaining a high state of readiness and improving its capabilities through rigorous training, technological upgradation, and strategic foresight. The recognition of outstanding soldiers further serves to motivate the troops and reinforce the values of hard work and excellence within the division.

Lt Gen Kumar’s engagements at the Agnibaaz Division highlight the ongoing efforts to ensure that the artillery units are well-prepared to face current and future challenges effectively, thus contributing significantly to the overall combat readiness and capability of the Indian Army.

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Command, conducted a series of visits to the Bangalore Military Station and the Madras Engineers Group and Centre to assess the operational readiness and training effectiveness of the forces stationed there.

Operational Readiness Review at Bangalore Military Station

During his visit to the Bangalore Military Station, Lt Gen Seth focused on evaluating the operational capabilities of the Karnataka and Kerala Sub Area. He commended the troops for their exemplary response during the recent Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Operations in Wayanad, where their efforts led to the rescue of over 2,000 people.

The Army Commander praised the troops for their commitment and valour, highlighting their role in managing one of the area’s most challenging disaster responses.

Lt Gen Seth encouraged all ranks to continue maintaining the high standards demonstrated during these operations, emphasizing that such readiness and dedication are crucial for the success of future missions.

Training and Technological Integration at Madras Engineers Group and Centre

At the Madras Engineers Group and Centre, the focus of Lt Gen Seth’s visit was on assessing the training regimes of the Agniveers and soldiers from the MEG and the Corps of Engineers. He lauded the incorporation of advanced simulators into their training programs, noting the significant role of technology in enhancing realistic and effective training experiences.

The General Officer Commanding-in-Chief also acknowledged the exceptional efforts of the Sappers in constructing the Chooralmala Bridge in Wayanad, which was instrumental in facilitating the disaster relief operations. The quick construction of the bridge showcased the engineering prowess and rapid response capabilities of the troops.

Recognition of Olympic-Level Excellence

Additionally, Lt Gen Seth met with Subedar Vishnu Saravanan, an MEG sailor who competed in two Olympic Games, including the recent 2024 Paris Olympics. He praised Subedar Saravanan for his dedication and perseverance, underscoring the importance of supporting and recognizing the exceptional talents of soldiers who excel in both their military duties and international sports.

These visits by Lt Gen Seth reflect the comprehensive approach of the Southern Command in ensuring operational readiness, promoting advanced training, and acknowledging outstanding individual contributions within the ranks. His engagements underscore the Indian Army’s commitment to fostering a versatile, well-prepared, and highly motivated force ready to tackle both military and humanitarian challenges.

Brigadier P Sashi, Dean of the Faculty of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering and Technology (FEMT), addressed the inaugural session of the Senior Officers EME-139 course at the Military College of Electronics and Mechanical Engineering (MCEME). The session marked the commencement of an advanced training program designed to enhance the professional and technical capabilities of senior officers in the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers.

During his address, Brigadier Sashi extended his congratulations to the officers nominated for this prestigious course, acknowledging the significant role they play in the operational readiness and technological advancement of the Indian Army. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning and adaptation to stay abreast of rapid technological developments in military engineering.

Highlighting the dual focus of the course, Brigadier Sashi stressed the importance of maintaining high physical standards alongside professional growth. He reminded the officers that “a healthy mind resides in a healthy body” and reinforced the necessity of physical fitness as a critical component of effective leadership and command responsibilities.

The Senior Officers EME-139 course is structured to equip the officers with in-depth knowledge and skills across various professional and technical domains pertinent to their roles. This includes emerging technologies in military engineering, strategic management, and leadership development, aiming to prepare them for higher responsibilities in their respective fields.

The course also integrates physical training sessions and wellness programs to ensure that officers remain physically adept to meet the challenges of their demanding roles. Brigadier Sashi’s emphasis on holistic development reflects the Indian Army’s broader strategy to foster well-rounded leaders capable of leading from the front in both technical expertise and physical endurance.

As the course progresses, the officers are expected to engage in a series of practical and theoretical learning modules designed to challenge their understanding and enhance their capabilities, thereby contributing significantly to the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers’ strategic goals.

Lieutenant General Daljit Singh, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) and Senior Colonel Commandant, marked his farewell visit today by touring the Army Medical Corps (AMC) units within the Pune-Khadki complex. His visit included the Command Hospital in Pune, the Army Institute of Cardio Thoracic Sciences (AICTS), and the Military Hospital in Khadki.

During his visit, Lt Gen Singh reviewed the facilities and operations at each site, assessing the various services provided by these esteemed medical institutions. He commended the staff at each location for their dedication and the high-quality medical care they deliver to personnel and their families.

Highlighting the importance of medical services in the overall effectiveness and morale of the armed forces, Lt Gen Singh praised the continuous efforts of the medical staff to enhance healthcare services. He expressed his appreciation for their commitment to maintaining excellence in all aspects of military healthcare, from clinical services to research and training.

In his farewell remarks, Lt Gen Singh exhorted all personnel to continue their excellent work and strive for even higher standards in patient care and medical innovation. He emphasized that the welfare of the armed forces personnel and their families is paramount and praised the AMC units for their role in ensuring this through top-notch medical practices.

The visit not only served as an opportunity for Lt Gen Singh to bid farewell but also to reinforce the vital role of medical units in the defense sector. His leadership has been instrumental in fostering advancements in military medicine, and his parting words left a lasting impression on the staff to persist in their mission of delivering outstanding medical services.

Lt Gen Singh’s tenure as DGAFMS has seen significant enhancements in the capabilities and reach of military healthcare services, and his visit underscored the ongoing commitment of the Indian Army to uphold the health and wellbeing of its personnel as a top priority.

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, AVSM, Army Commander of the Southern Command, conducted a significant visit to New Space Research & Technologies in Bengaluru, highlighting the Indian Army’s commitment to integrating state-of-the-art technologies into its operational framework.

During his visit, Lt Gen Seth inspected a range of advanced drone technologies poised to transform modern warfare. The array of systems included High Altitude Long Endurance Drones, Logistic Drones, Swarm Drones, Tethered Drones, and Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).

Each of these systems represents cutting-edge developments in unmanned aerial technology, offering various strategic advantages from enhanced surveillance capabilities to improved logistical support on the battlefield.

The focus of the visit was to evaluate how these technologies can be integrated into the Army’s current and future operations to enhance mission effectiveness and operational versatility. Lt Gen Seth’s engagement with the latest innovations in drone technology underscores the Army’s proactive approach in adopting new and emerging technologies that can provide significant tactical advantages.

The visit also set the stage for potential collaborations between the Indian Army and the tech industry, focusing on harnessing niche technologies that can contribute to national defense capabilities. Discussions during the visit explored the possibilities of customizing these technologies to meet specific military needs and operational challenges faced by the Indian Army.

By fostering such technological advancements and exploring their applications within military operations, Lt Gen Seth’s visit to New Space Research & Technologies reinforces the Southern Command’s strategy to maintain a technologically advanced and battle-ready force, prepared to effectively address contemporary and future threats.

The Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai hosted jubilant reunion celebrations for the alumni of its Short Service Commission Courses, marking significant milestones. The event saw the Golden Jubilee of the Non-Technical 18th and Technical 9th courses that passed out in September 1974, alongside the Silver Jubilee of the Non-Technical 68th and Technical 11th courses, as well as the Women Special Entry Scheme 14th course, all of which graduated in September 1999.

This grand reunion brought together veterans and serving officers from these distinguished courses, along with their families, to celebrate decades of service and camaraderie at their Alma Mater. The celebrations were marked by a series of events that not only honored their professional milestones but also reignited the spirit of unity and shared memories among the attendees.

The academy grounds were abuzz with exhilaration as old friends and colleagues reconnected, reminiscing about their formative years at the OTA and sharing stories of their journeys since graduation. The event featured ceremonial parades, speeches, and a series of nostalgic activities designed to take the alumni and their families down memory lane, as well as introduce the current cadets to the rich legacy of their predecessors.

Highlighting the significance of these reunions, the OTA officials noted the importance of such gatherings in fostering a sense of continuity and inspiration among the current batches of officers training at the academy. These celebrations not only reflect the enduring bonds formed during their training but also underscore the lasting impact of OTA on their professional and personal lives.

The Golden and Silver Jubilee celebrations were not just a testament to the decades of service by the academy’s alumni but also a demonstration of the deep-rooted traditions and values that define the ethos of the Indian Army. As the veterans passed on lessons of leadership and dedication to the younger generations, the event affirmed the timeless bond and commitment shared by the members of the armed forces, making it a truly memorable occasion for all involved.