Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, the recently appointed General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command, undertook a comprehensive assessment of the security and operational readiness of the Chinar Corps during his visit to its headquarters in Srinagar on Tuesday.

Lt Gen Sharma was briefed on the current security environment, particularly focusing on counter-insurgency operations and enhanced coordination among security and intelligence agencies. The discussions also covered the security implications of recent incidents in the Jammu region and the need for sustained vigilance against persistent threats from terror outfits such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen.

Commending the dedication and professionalism of Chinar Corps personnel, the Army Commander emphasized the critical importance of preparedness, especially in view of the valley’s complex and evolving threat landscape. He stressed the fusion of technological innovation with traditional operational prowess, a vision reflected in the recent establishment of the Command Subedar Major position, effective from June 1, 2025. This new role aims to strengthen communication channels and operational synergy across ranks, contributing to a projected 30% reduction in conflict-zone casualties.

During his visit, Lt Gen Sharma interacted with serving soldiers, civil defense employees, and veterans at the Ibadat-e-Shahadat Museum in Srinagar—a memorial dedicated to the sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces in Jammu and Kashmir. He acknowledged their service and underscored the museum’s role in building trust between the armed forces and local communities.

The day concluded with a detailed review of logistics infrastructure, ensuring that the Chinar Corps remains well-prepared for both counter-terror operations and humanitarian responsibilities during the Amarnath Yatra. Lt Gen Sharma’s visit signals a forward-looking strategic approach centered on operational efficiency, technological adoption, and community engagement to secure the Kashmir Valley and uphold national security.

Over 2,000 newly trained Agniveers were formally inducted into the Indian Army during impressive Passing Out Parades held at the Army Ordnance Corps (AOC) Centre and the 1 EME Centre in Secunderabad. The ceremonies marked the successful completion of 34 weeks of rigorous military training and drew large gatherings of proud families and relatives.

At the AOC Centre, the recruits completed their training in critical battlefield support roles, focusing on logistics, field craft, physical endurance, weapons handling, and military drills. Major General Rakesh Manocha, Commandant of the AOC Centre, reviewed the parade and encouraged the soldiers to embody the principles of “Duty, Honour, and Courage.” Recruit Manish Kumar was presented the GOC-in-C Southern Command rolling trophy for being the best recruit of the batch.

Simultaneously, at the 1 EME Centre, 1,024 Agniveers of Batch-05/24 were inducted into the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers after completing their basic and advanced training. The EME plays a pivotal role in the upkeep and operation of cutting-edge military equipment, preparing soldiers for technologically advanced combat environments.

Brigadier Prashant Bajpai, Commandant of the 1 EME Centre, reviewed the parade and lauded the Agniveers for their discipline and resilience. He urged them to serve the nation with unwavering dedication, while upholding integrity and honour. Agniveer Vishnu Soni was awarded best in drill and appointed parade commander, and Agniveer Prithvijeet Kumar received the award for best overall performance.

The events underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to grooming a new generation of soldiers through the Agnipath scheme, focusing on youthful energy, technical skill, and patriotism.

The National Military-Civil Symposium on Floods and Flood-Related Disaster Management was convened today at Headquarters Central Command in Lucknow, bringing together key stakeholders from the armed forces, state governments, and technical agencies. The symposium aimed to strengthen preparedness and foster collaboration to address recurring flood challenges across India’s most vulnerable regions.

Senior representatives from the states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh participated, along with officials from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs). Technical experts from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Central Water Commission (CWC), and National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) contributed valuable insights into early warning systems and data-driven flood mitigation strategies.

Delivering the keynote address, Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Surya Command, stressed the importance of a unified approach. He said, “Our goal is to reduce disaster risk through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. Civil-military coordination is essential for swift and resilient flood responses.”

An equipment display at the venue highlighted recent advancements in flood response technologies, including real-time monitoring tools, inflatable rescue boats, and communication systems. Participants also shared successful models and lessons learned from past flood relief operations, encouraging cross-state learning and preparedness.

This symposium is a step forward in institutionalizing civil-military cooperation for disaster management and sets the stage for a more robust, technology-integrated response framework. It reflects India’s evolving disaster management priorities, emphasizing inter-agency coordination, proactive planning, and community resilience.

In a landmark innovation for defence technology, Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Illiyas Khan of the Indian Army has developed the STRIKE drone—a state-of-the-art wireless detonation system that promises to revolutionize bomb disposal operations. The system combines an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), a remote transmitter, and a relay mechanism to safely neutralize explosives from a distance.

The STRIKE (Smart Tactical Remote-Integrated Kill Engagement) drone minimizes human exposure to hazardous conditions, allowing bomb disposal teams to carry out high-risk operations with greater safety and precision. By enabling remote detonation, it significantly lowers the chances of casualties, marking a major leap forward in counter-IED (Improvised Explosive Device) capabilities.

This innovation comes at a time when the Indian Army is actively modernizing its arsenal with indigenous, tech-driven solutions. The STRIKE drone aligns with the global shift toward unmanned systems for tasks traditionally carried out by personnel on the ground. Drones have already proven their worth in surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeted operations; Lt Col Khan’s contribution extends this utility to life-saving defensive operations.

Drawing on a rich tradition of UAV deployment—tracing back to Israel’s pioneering use of drones in the late 1970s—India’s STRIKE system adds to the growing body of tactical applications for drones in modern warfare. It is expected to be integrated into Indian Army bomb disposal units and possibly adapted for use by paramilitary forces and disaster response teams.

Lt Col Khan’s creation stands as a testament to the innovation and dedication of India’s military personnel, combining operational necessity with technological ingenuity to safeguard lives in high-threat environments.

The Indian Armed Forces and the nation are grieving the loss of Brigadier Rajesh Shivrain, a decorated officer from the elite 10 Para (Special Forces), who passed away earlier today at the Army Hospital (Research and Referral) in Delhi Cantonment. Fondly known as “Sherkhan” among his comrades, Brigadier Shivrain was celebrated for his bravery, mentorship, and decades of selfless service to the nation.

A legendary figure within the special forces community, Brigadier Shivrain played a key role in several high-stakes operations and was widely respected for his leadership and field expertise. He was particularly admired in the 10 Para (SF), one of India’s most daring military units, noted for missions such as the 1988 intervention in the Maldives.

His moniker “Sherkhan” resonated deeply within military circles, evoking a spirit of courage similar to Pakistani Captain Karnal Sher Khan, the only Nishan-e-Haider recipient of the Kargil conflict. The comparison, originally drawn by Indian Brigadier M.P.S. Bajwa, reflects an acknowledgment of valor that transcends borders.

Brigadier Shivrain’s passing is being mourned as a monumental loss by his colleagues and juniors, many of whom regarded him as a guiding force and elder brother. The Army Hospital (R&R), where he breathed his last, is a premier medical institution that serves India’s top military leadership and symbolizes his stature within the armed forces.

His service follows the proud tradition of the 10 Para (SF), whose valor was also exemplified by martyrs like Havaldar Gajender Singh Bisht, who laid down his life during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Brigadier Shivrain’s death leaves behind a void in a regiment that has long stood at the forefront of India’s most challenging operations.

As tributes pour in from across the nation, a formal statement from the Indian Army is awaited. The overwhelming response from serving personnel, veterans, and citizens reflects the deep impact of Brigadier Shivrain’s life and legacy. His name will endure as a symbol of sacrifice, service, and unwavering courage.

Jai Hind.