In a heartfelt and inspiring address, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff (#COAS), met with the Officers set to retire on 31 October 2024 during the Retiring Officers’ Seminar (#ROS). This gathering was not just a formal event; it was a tribute to the tireless dedication and selfless service these officers have rendered to the nation over the years.

In his address, General Dwivedi took a moment to reflect on the significance of their contributions, expressing his deep admiration and gratitude for their unwavering commitment to duty. “Your service has been a cornerstone in upholding the values and strength of our great nation and the Indian Army,” he remarked. The officers, having dedicated their lives to safeguarding the country, embody the principles of honor, courage, and integrity — values that will remain with them as they step into a new phase of life.

General Dwivedi also reaffirmed his confidence that their roles in nation-building would not end with their retirement from active duty. He encouraged them to continue making meaningful contributions, whether through mentoring the next generation, engaging in community service, or contributing to the nation’s growth in various other capacities. “Your experience and wisdom are invaluable,” he stated, “and I have no doubt that you will continue to be positive forces in shaping the future of our country.”

The #ROS provided a platform for these officers to not only reminisce about their journey in the Indian Army but also to look ahead at the next chapter of their lives. As they leave behind their military uniforms, they carry forward a legacy of honor and service that will inspire those who follow in their footsteps.

The spirit of the Indian Army, as embodied by these retiring officers, continues to shine bright. General Upendra Dwivedi’s words were a fitting recognition of their sacrifices and a reminder that service to the nation transcends the boundaries of any career. These officers may be retiring, but their contributions to India will undoubtedly continue, echoing the timeless motto of the Indian Army: “Service Before Self.”

In the serene yet challenging heights of Tawang, nestled in the northeastern reaches of India, an extraordinary event unfolded at the Tawang Marathon. Among the 4,500 runners who had gathered from various corners of the world, one Indian soldier stood tall and resilient — Subedar Arjun Pradhan of the prestigious Bogra Brigade.

The Tawang Marathon is not just a race; it is a true test of endurance, strength, and determination. The thin mountain air and rugged terrain make every step harder than the last. But for Subedar Arjun Pradhan, this was more than just a race — it was a journey of grit, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence.

Competing against thousands of elite athletes, Subedar Pradhan pushed himself to his limits. The months of hard work, the early mornings spent training, and the discipline honed by his years in the Indian Army had prepared him for this moment. Each mile of the marathon was a testament to his perseverance, his unwavering focus, and his belief that with determination, anything is possible.

As he neared the finish line, the competition grew fiercer, but so did his resolve. With every stride, he carried the hopes of his comrades, the pride of his brigade, and the honor of his nation. In a stunning display of strength, Subedar Arjun Pradhan crossed the finish line, securing a silver medal — the only Indian to reach the podium.

This incredible achievement not only highlights Subedar Pradhan’s personal triumph but also shines a light on the unwavering spirit of the Indian Army. His victory is a reminder that hard work and determination can overcome even the toughest challenges, whether in the battlefield or on the marathon track.

Subedar Arjun Pradhan’s success in the Tawang Marathon is a proud moment for the Indian Army and the entire nation. It is a story of dedication, perseverance, and the unbreakable will to succeed. His achievement inspires us all to aim higher, work harder, and never give up, no matter how tough the journey may be.

Today, we celebrate not just a silver medal but the spirit of a soldier who reminds us that excellence is born from hard work and relentless pursuit of one’s goals. Subedar Arjun Pradhan’s journey is a shining example that with determination and courage, we can conquer any obstacle and make our country proud.

Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, AVSM, Army Commander, Southern Command, visited Gwalior Military Station to assess its operational readiness and ongoing training initiatives.

During his visit, Lt Gen Seth reviewed the formations’ efforts in enhancing capabilities and overall operational effectiveness.

The Army Commander commended the professionalism and exceptional performance of the troops, encouraging all ranks to continue striving for excellence.

In a show of appreciation, he also felicitated individuals for their outstanding contributions, reinforcing the importance of dedication and maintaining high standards of performance within the Army.

Gwalior Military Station, a key installation of the Indian Army in Madhya Pradesh, plays a crucial role in ensuring the operational readiness and training of military personnel in the region.

General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, along with the Director General of Artillery, observed a live demonstration of the cutting-edge Artillery Command Control Communication Systems, under the indigenously developed PROJECT SHAKTI, at the Carriappa Parade Ground, New Delhi.

The demonstration highlighted the system’s advanced capabilities, incorporating state-of-the-art technology that streamlines operations from Corps Level Fire Control Centres to Battery Command Posts and individual guns.

PROJECT SHAKTI automates all artillery functions at both tactical and operational levels, delivering rapid and precise artillery firepower to critical battlefield locations.

The system enhances commanders’ decision-making abilities in real-time, enabling faster, more informed responses and adaptability during operations.

As part of the Indian Army’s #DecadeofTransformation initiative, this modernization through Atmanirbharta reinforces the Army’s commitment to being battle-ready for future conflicts.

The ACCCS system showcases India’s strides in self-reliant defense technology, ensuring the Army is prepared for tomorrow’s battles, today.

Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, Army Commander of the Northern Command, accompanied by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Chinar Corps, visited Shalateng Garrison under Counter Insurgency Force (CIF) Kilo to assess the current security situation in the region.

During the visit, Lt Gen Kumar emphasized the importance of maintaining vigilance and professionalism in ongoing counter-terrorism operations.

He urged all ranks to remain steadfast in their commitment to securing the region, upholding the highest standards of operational readiness.

The Shalateng Garrison, located in the Sharifabad area of Budgam district, holds historical significance as it is named after the pivotal Battle of Shalateng, which took place on November 7, 1947, during the first Indo-Pak war.

The battle marked a crucial turning point in the conflict over Jammu and Kashmir.

The 24-week-long Young Officers (YO) Course has commenced at the prestigious Army Air Defence College (AADC). This intensive program aims to equip Student Officers with tactical and technical expertise in Air Defence Weapon Systems and modern technologies.

The course is essential for the development of leadership and operational skills within the Army Air Defence Corps.

This edition of the course includes participation from Student Officers from Friendly Foreign Countries (FFC), including Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, and Tanzania, further fostering international military cooperation and knowledge exchange.

The Army Air Defence College, located in Gopalpur, Odisha, is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced simulators, electronic labs, and firing ranges.

The college provides hands-on experience with sophisticated weapon systems such as the Akash and MRSAM surface-to-air missiles, and offers specialized diploma programs in Radar Technology, Armament Technology, and Combat Radio and Communication Technology.

The AADC remains a leading institution in enhancing the technical and operational capabilities of air defence personnel in India and beyond.

In a tragic incident today, two soldiers and two porters were killed in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district, sources reported. The Indian Army’s Chinar Corps confirmed that an exchange of fire took place between soldiers and terrorists in the Butapathri area of Baramulla. Three others were injured in the attack.

The terrorists initially targeted an army vehicle, marking the second such attack in the Union Territory within the last 72 hours. Earlier in the day, a labourer named Pritam Singh from Uttar Pradesh was shot and injured in a separate incident in the region.

This attack comes on the heels of a deadly assault three days ago in Ganderbal, where six construction workers and a doctor were killed when terrorists attacked a housing camp for tunnel construction workers. The victims hailed from various parts of India, including Kashmir, Punjab, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Jammu.

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the attacks, calling them “dastardly and cowardly.” He expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families, stressing that such attacks on innocent civilians, particularly non-local laborers, are deplorable.

The increasing violence in the region has sparked concern, particularly after the dismantling of a newly-formed terror group, Tehreek Labaik Ya Muslim, following anti-terror raids across multiple districts of Jammu and Kashmir.