Home Blog Page 3

Indian Army Agniveer Exam Schedule 2025 OUT: Check CEE Dates, Admit Card Timeline, and Paper Pattern Details

0

The Indian Army has officially released the examination schedule for the Agniveer Common Entrance Exam (CEE) 2025 under the Agnipath recruitment scheme. The online examination will be conducted from June 30 to July 10, 2025, across multiple shifts for various categories, including Agniveer General Duty, Tradesman, Technical, Clerk/Store Keeper, Women Military Police, and Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) entries.

Candidates can check the detailed exam schedule and download the official date PDF on the Indian Army’s recruitment portal at joinindianarmy.nic.in.

Agniveer CEE 2025 Exam Schedule (Category-wise)

S. No.Entry CategoryExam DatesDuration
1.Agniveer (General Duty)30 Jun – 03 Jul 2560 min
2.Agniveer Tradesmen (10th Pass)03 Jul – 04 Jul 2560 min
3.Agniveer (Technical)04 Jul 2560 min
4.Agniveer Tradesmen (8th Pass)07 Jul 2560 min
5.Agniveer GD (Women Military Police)07 Jul 2560 min
6.Soldier Technical (Nursing Assistant)08 Jul 2560 min
7.Havildar Education (IT/Cyber, Info Ops, Linguist)08 Jul 25180 min
8.Sepoy (Pharma)09 Jul 25120 min
9.JCO RT (Religious Teacher – All Categories)09 Jul 25120 min
10.JCO (Catering)09 Jul 25120 min
11.Havildar Survey Automated Cartographer09 Jul 25120 min
12.Agniveer (Clerk/Store Keeper Technical)10 Jul 2560 min

Admit Card Release Timeline

Admit cards will be issued 14 days before the respective exam date for each category. Candidates must download their admit card from the official portal and report to the center as per the instructions mentioned.

CategoryAdmit Card Release Date
Agniveer (General Duty)16 Jun 25
Agniveer Tradesmen (10th)18 Jun 25
Agniveer (Technical)19 Jun 25
Agniveer Tradesmen (8th)23 Jun 25
Agniveer GD (Women Military Police)23 Jun 25
Soldier Technical (NA)24 Jun 25
Havildar Education24 Jun 25
Sepoy (Pharma)25 Jun 25
JCO (RT, Catering)25 Jun 25
Havildar (Svy Auto Carto)25 Jun 25
Agniveer (Clerk/SKT)26 Jun 25

Exam Pattern

The Common Entrance Exam will be computer-based and consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). It will be bilingual (Hindi & English) and conducted in secure exam centers across India.

CategoryNo. of QuestionsDurationTotal Marks
General Duty / Technical / Tradesman / Nursing Asst.501 hour50
Sepoy (Pharma) / JCO / Havildar (Survey)1002 hours100
  • Negative Marking: 0.25 marks will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
  • Normalization: Scores will be normalized to adjust for difficulty level variations across sessions.

Selection Process

The Agniveer recruitment involves four stages:

  1. Computer-Based Test (CEE)
  2. Physical Fitness Test (PFT)
  3. Physical Measurement Test (PMT)
  4. Medical Examination

Salary and Service Details

Recruits will receive a starting in-hand salary of Rs 21,000 in the first year, increasing incrementally each year. At the end of the four-year term, each Agniveer will receive a Seva Nidhi package of Rs 10.04 lakh. Based on organizational requirements, 25% of Agniveers will be selected for permanent service in the Indian Army.

SchemeAgnipath
Conducted byIndian Army
Tenure4 Years
Starting SalaryRs 21,000/month (in-hand)
Exit PackageRs 10,04,000 (Seva Nidhi)
Permanent AbsorptionUp to 25% based on merit and vacancies

Candidates are advised to regularly visit the official website for further updates and download their admit cards well in advance.

Historic Father-Son Pipping Ceremony Strengthens Indo-Sri Lankan Military Ties During IMA POP

0

A deeply symbolic moment unfolded at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) today as Brigadier RMSP Rathnayake of the Sri Lanka Army had the honor of pinning the rank insignia on his son, Foreign Officer Cadet RMNL Rathnayake, during the ceremonial commissioning parade. This marked a rare father-son milestone in military service and underscored the enduring Indo-Sri Lankan defense partnership.

Cadet Rathnayake became the 296th Sri Lankan officer to graduate from IMA since 1949, a reflection of the long-standing military collaboration between the two South Asian neighbors. The IMA has, over the years, trained more than 2,500 foreign cadets from over 30 countries, making it a cornerstone of India’s military diplomacy.

1 36

The ceremony, attended by senior officials from both armies, coincided with the official visit of Lieutenant General BKGM Lasantha Rodrigo, Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, to India from June 11–14. Gen. Rodrigo’s itinerary included a wreath-laying at the National War Memorial, a Guard of Honour at South Block, and a tree-planting at the Manekshaw Centre—each symbolizing the strength and depth of bilateral ties.

Strategic dialogues during the visit focused on enhancing defense cooperation, joint training, and tackling shared regional security challenges. The timing is significant, as India seeks to deepen ties with its maritime neighbor amid increasing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean Region.

2 28

The pipping of Officer Cadet Rathnayake by his father was not only a proud family moment but also a powerful symbol of inter-generational military service and international camaraderie. It reflects the evolving synergy between India and Sri Lanka’s armed forces, built on decades of trust, mutual respect, and shared strategic vision.

Iran Claims Downing of Israeli F-35 and Capturing Female Pilot Amid Rising Tensions

0

Iranian state media have claimed that the country’s air defense systems shot down two Israeli F-35 Adir stealth fighter jets and captured one of the pilots—a woman—following Israel’s airstrikes under Operation Rising Lion. The bold assertion has stirred global speculation and skepticism, with international observers unable to verify the claims independently.

According to semi-official outlets Tasnim and IRNA, the alleged shootdown occurred during Israel’s unprecedented aerial offensive targeting Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure. Tehran reports that the strikes killed at least 78 people, including military officials, scientists, women, and children, and wounded over 320 others. In retaliation, Iran said it launched surface-to-air missiles and drones, purportedly neutralizing several Israeli air assets, including the two advanced stealth jets.

The F-35 Lightning II, known for its radar-evading capabilities, is among the world’s most advanced fighter jets. Its stealth features give it a radar cross-section as small as 0.0015 square meters, making it virtually undetectable by conventional radar systems. While past events—like the 1999 downing of a US F-117A stealth aircraft in Serbia—prove that stealth jets are not invincible, that incident had extensive evidence and was confirmed by both sides.

In stark contrast, Iran’s claims remain unverified. No wreckage images, satellite evidence, or confirmations from international monitoring bodies have surfaced. Israel’s Defense Forces have strongly denied the allegations, labeling them “entirely fabricated” and part of a psychological operation to distract from the severe losses Tehran suffered during the Israeli offensive.

A spokesperson for the IDF dismissed the reports as disinformation aimed at salvaging Iran’s image amid widespread damage and casualties. No international outlet, including Sky News or Al Jazeera, has been able to corroborate Iran’s account.

Analysts suggest the announcement could be an attempt by Iran to project strength domestically following the shock of Israel’s precision strikes, which reportedly crippled key Iranian defense capabilities.

Meanwhile, both nations remain on high alert. Israel continues to recover from retaliatory missile and drone strikes by Iran, with dozens of civilians injured. In Iran, national mourning has begun for those killed, and officials have issued fresh warnings of further retaliation, urging the global community to condemn Israel’s “act of naked aggression.”

With facts still obscured by the fog of war, the truth behind the alleged F-35 downing remains elusive.

Indian Army Showcases Tech Prowess During GOC Sudarshan Chakra Corps Visit in Secunderabad

0

In a strong display of operational readiness and technological progress, the Indian Army’s Bison Division hosted Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh, AVSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Sudarshan Chakra Corps, at the Secunderabad Military Station. The high-level visit focused on assessing training initiatives and capability enhancements as part of the Army’s modernization drive.

A key highlight of the visit was the demonstration of advanced military technologies, including drones and indigenous counter-drone systems, reflecting the Army’s growing focus on self-reliance and preparedness. These upgrades are part of the 138 emergency procurement schemes worth Rs 16,000 crore launched after the 2016 Uri terror attack, aimed at boosting combat capabilities along the Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC).

1 35

Lt Gen Singh lauded the troops for their professionalism and commitment, commending the unit’s efforts in embracing innovation and new technologies. He emphasized maintaining high standards of training and readiness in an evolving security environment.

The Sudarshan Chakra Corps, historically formed in 1917 during World War I for operations in the Middle East, has now become a premier strike corps under the Southern Command. Its evolution mirrors the Indian Army’s strategic shift toward modern warfare and multi-domain operational preparedness.

2 27

A notable part of the visit included a presentation on the Vehicle Mounted Counter Swarm Drone System (VMCSDS), developed under the Army’s Make-II initiative by Apollo Micro Systems. Contracted in July 2024, the system is expected to be operational by March 2026 and is designed to neutralize drone swarm threats with precision.

The event featured tactical drills, equipment displays, and ceremonial honours, all of which highlighted the Army’s integrated approach to enhancing combat capability and fostering tri-service synergy. The visit reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to indigenization and readiness in the face of complex regional challenges.

CRPF Jawan Killed in IED Blast During Anti-Maoist Operation in Odisha’s Sundargarh

0

In a tragic incident during an anti-Maoist operation, a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan, Satyaban Kumar Singh, lost his life following an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in a forested area of Odisha’s Sundargarh district. Singh, 34, was part of the 134 Battalion and had been deployed on a combing operation alongside personnel from the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Odisha Police.

The blast occurred while the joint forces were conducting a routine security sweep in a suspected Maoist-influenced area. The explosion inflicted severe injuries to Singh’s left leg, leaving him in a critical condition. He was immediately evacuated to a hospital in Rourkela but succumbed to his injuries despite medical intervention.

The operation, aimed at tracking and neutralizing Maoist threats in the region, continues even as security forces investigate the circumstances surrounding the explosion. Further details are awaited from official sources.

This incident underscores the persistent dangers faced by security personnel in regions affected by left-wing extremism, and highlights the ongoing challenges of counter-insurgency operations in remote forested terrains of Odisha and adjoining states.

Authorities are expected to release more information on the operation and the IED blast in the coming hours.

Israel Military Apologises for Map Showing J&K as Part of Pakistan After Indian Outrage

0

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have issued a formal apology after a significant diplomatic controversy erupted over a social media post that incorrectly depicted Jammu and Kashmir as part of Pakistan. The map, shared by the IDF in connection with regional operations, was swiftly condemned by Indian citizens and political leaders for misrepresenting India’s sovereign territory.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the IDF admitted the map “fails to precisely depict borders” and clarified that it was meant only as an “illustration of the region.” “We apologize for any offence caused by this image,” the post stated, following widespread backlash and calls for a retraction.

The error triggered a wave of criticism on social media, with many Indian users urging the Israeli military and its leadership to issue a correction. Some users even tagged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, seeking a formal response.

The controversy soon took a political turn, with the Indian National Congress criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera mocked Modi, calling the incident “another feather in Vishwaguru’s cap” and labeling the episode a diplomatic embarrassment, especially in light of Modi’s close ties with Netanyahu.

Modi and Netanyahu have publicly showcased their alliance through high-profile state visits and symbolic gestures. Modi was the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Israel in 2017, marking a historic shift in bilateral ties.

The incident comes at a tense time in the Middle East. Following Israeli airstrikes that killed top Iranian military leaders under “Operation Rising Lion,” Iran retaliated with drone and missile attacks targeting northern Israel. Air-raid sirens sounded across the region as Israel scrambled to respond to the escalating conflict.

The mapping error by the IDF, though eventually acknowledged, has stirred discussions on diplomatic sensitivity and the importance of accurate geopolitical representations amid deepening international tensions.

Naib Subedar Ram Baboo Wins Bronze at Austrian Race Walking Championship

0

Naib Subedar Ram Baboo of the Indian Army’s Sapta Shakti Command has secured a bronze medal in the 35km race walk event at the Austrian Race Walking Championship in Innsbruck, held on June 9, 2025. Finishing with a personal best time of 2:41:47, Baboo’s performance reinforces his growing stature in the global athletics arena.

Hailing from a modest background in Uttar Pradesh, Baboo’s journey to international acclaim has been nothing short of remarkable. Once a daily-wage laborer during the COVID-19 lockdown, he found a new lease on life through the Indian Army’s structured sports development programs. His bronze medal in Austria follows his contribution to India’s mixed racewalking team victory at the 2022 Asian Games. He also holds a personal best of 2:29:56, set at the Dudinska 50 Meet in Slovakia in 2023.

1 34

His latest success was lauded by Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, Commander of the Sapta Shakti Command, who emphasized Baboo’s perseverance and credited the Army’s unwavering support for sports excellence. General Singh’s praise reflects the Indian Army’s long-standing commitment to nurturing elite athletes under its Mission Olympics program.

Initiated in 2001, the Mission Olympics initiative—anchored by institutions like the Army Sports Institute in Pune—has been instrumental in training world-class athletes across disciplines including athletics, boxing, and wrestling. With top-tier coaches and modern infrastructure, the program has consistently produced Olympic-level talent, including Subedar Neeraj Chopra, Havildar Vijay Kumar, and Major Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore.

Ram Baboo’s achievement underscores not only personal grit but also the Indian Army’s pivotal role in elevating India’s international sports profile. As India looks forward to future Olympic challenges, his journey serves as a symbol of how dedication, combined with institutional support, can turn adversity into triumph.

U.S. Deploys Warships Near Israel

0

The United States has moved two guided-missile destroyers closer to Israel in the Eastern Mediterranean as fears mount over a possible retaliatory missile strike from Iran. The move follows Israeli airstrikes on Iranian military targets earlier this week, significantly escalating regional tensions.

According to two U.S. defense officials speaking on condition of anonymity, the warships—already operating in the region—are being repositioned to provide enhanced ballistic and cruise missile defense capabilities. The USS Gravely, a key asset in missile interception, is one of the vessels involved.

These destroyers are intended to add a protective shield for U.S. personnel and installations in the region, while also supporting Israeli defenses in the event of a large-scale missile onslaught. The deployment mirrors similar actions taken last October, when U.S. naval forces helped intercept a significant barrage of Iranian missiles targeting Israeli territory.

During the spring, the Pentagon had ramped up its missile defense posture in the region in response to attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. This included deploying two Patriot missile defense batteries from Asia and a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system to the Middle East.

Although those ground-based systems remain in place, recent drawdowns in naval presence had occurred, including the return of the Harry S. Truman carrier strike group to Virginia. The Carl Vinson carrier strike group is currently the only remaining U.S. strike group stationed in the Arabian Sea.

The Pentagon has yet to issue an official statement on the latest redeployments. The repositioning of U.S. naval assets signals Washington’s continued commitment to Israel’s security and readiness to counter escalating threats from Tehran in a highly volatile region.

Meet Newly Commissioned Lt Gagandeep Bharti: From Long Jumps to Leadership

0

The journey of Lt Gagandeep Bharti didn’t begin with marching boots or military drills. It began on the athletics track, where he was once a rising star. A national-level long jumper, Gagandeep reached as high as 8th in international rankings—his sights set on representing India on the global stage.

But fate had other plans. A career-ending injury forced him off the track and into four long, painful months of immobility. Bedridden, he grappled not just with physical recovery but a deeper crisis of identity. The world he had built around speed and strength had collapsed.

A Mother’s Question, A Soldier’s Resolve

In that dark phase, it was a single question from his mother that sparked a turning point:
“Are you a king or a lieutenant of somewhere?”

What might have seemed like a casual remark struck a deep chord. For Gagandeep, it became a challenge—a call to rebuild himself, not as an athlete, but as a leader in uniform. With renewed focus and iron resolve, he began preparing for the UPSC CDS exam.

From CDS to the Indian Military Academy

The comeback was nothing short of extraordinary. Gagandeep secured All India Rank 09 in the UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam—a feat many dream of, but few achieve. His success earned him admission to the prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun.

At the IMA, he channelled the same discipline, endurance, and mental toughness he had once nurtured on the field. The difference now? His dreams had expanded—from winning medals to serving the nation.

Commissioning into the Indian Army

Today, Gagandeep Bharti is no longer a cadet or a jumper—he is Lieutenant Gagandeep Bharti, standing proud and tall, ready to wear the Olive Green. His journey from the track to the commissioning parade ground is not just a story of resilience—it is a statement of what the human spirit can achieve when challenged by adversity.

He may never again don the national colours in sport, but now, he wears something even more sacred—the colours of the Indian Army.

“Yes, Mom… I Am a Lieutenant.”

What began with despair ended in purpose. That one question from his mother led to a transformation that few could have predicted. Today, Lt Gagandeep Bharti doesn’t just carry a rank—he carries a legacy of determination, the power of reinvention, and the pride of having answered life’s hardest setback with the boldest response.

In uniform, he walks a new path—from long jump pits to battlefields, from national rankings to national service.

Himachal’s Son, Kangra’s Pride: Meet Newly Commissioned Lt Punit Mankotia

0


In the serene hills of Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, a young boy grew up under the influence of the Olive Green. That boy—Punit Mankotia—is today Lieutenant Punit Mankotia of the Indian Army, fulfilling not just his own aspirations but a lifelong promise to his father and family.

Born into a family steeped in military tradition, Punit’s inspiration came from his father, a retired Naib Subedar from the Corps of Signals, who instilled in him the values of discipline, duty, and honour. His two elder brothers also wore the uniform, reinforcing a legacy of service that Punit was determined to uphold. In December 2009, he joined the Army as a Gunner, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey.

Rising Through the Ranks with Excellence

Punit’s commitment to excellence was evident early in his career. At the School of Artillery, Deolali, he stood first in the Order of Merit in both Basic and Advanced Military Courses. His tenure with the 625 SATA Battery, followed by roles as Regimental Havildar Major (RHM) and Technical Instructor in Five Control, further solidified his reputation as a competent and respected leader.

International Recognition Under the UN Flag

In 2023, while serving under the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Syria-Israel sector, Punit’s performance earned him the Force Commander’s Commendation—an international recognition of his professionalism and dedication.

The Relentless Pursuit of a Dream

But amid all the achievements, one dream remained steadfast: to lead from the front as an officer. The path was not easy. Two unsuccessful attempts at the Special Commissioned Officers (SCO) entry could have deterred many. But Punit persisted. On his third attempt, he was finally recommended—a testament to his grit and refusal to give up.

From Gunner to Lieutenant: A Soldier’s Transformation

His commissioning is more than just a personal milestone. It is the culmination of a soldier’s unwavering spirit, a father’s dream fulfilled, and a new beginning for a leader shaped by ground realities and tested in some of the Army’s toughest roles.

Leading by Example

Lieutenant Punit Mankotia now stands not just as an officer, but as an embodiment of determination, humility, and service—ready to lead, inspire, and continue the proud legacy of the Indian Army.