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Meet Lt Himani Tomar: A Daughter and Sister of a Soldier, Who Became a Symbol of Courage

By
Adhidev Jasrotia
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Hailing from the small village of Chand Ka Pura in Madhya Pradesh’s Morena district, Himani Tomar’s journey has become a beacon of patriotic pride. In May 2025 she was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Indian Army – a role that fulfilled her family’s proud military legacy. The eldest daughter of Retired Subedar Madhau Singh Tomar and younger sister of Lance Naik Vikas Tomar, Himani’s achievement was deeply emotional. As one report noted, her father watched her “don the uniform” as a mirrored image of his own legacy. In front of family and villagers alike, Himani took on the officer’s stars – an honor her family, already “steeped in the values of service and patriotism,” cheered with tears of joy.

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Family Legacy

Growing up in a military household infused Himani’s childhood with discipline and patriotism. Her father served as a Subedar in the Army, and her elder brother Vikas was already a Lance Naik. Stories of valour and duty were part of everyday life. This environment inspired her early: as IndiaHerald reported, Himani’s roots in a “family already steeped in service and patriotism” provided the framework for her dreams. School lessons and village gatherings often featured the tricolor and Army anecdotes, instilling in her the belief that she, too, could serve the nation. Her parents and relatives encouraged her resolve, nurturing the same courage and commitment they had lived by.

Education and the Road to AFMC Pune

Himani’s formal education laid the foundation for her future military career. She did her primary schooling at Shanti Niketan School in Ambah and completed high school at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Jaura. Even before applying to the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune, she was preparing rigorously – reportedly studying in Kota and Gwalior for the competitive entrance exams. Her hard work paid off when she secured admission to AFMC’s prestigious nursing program. There she balanced demanding academics and military training. Her willpower “took her to the prestigious AFMC in Pune, where she finished her nursing graduation,” as one account noted. A bullet-point recap of her milestones underscores her path:

  • Schooling: Completed primary and secondary studies at Shanti Niketan (Ambah) and JNV Jaura.
  • AFMC Pune: Gained admission to the Armed Forces Medical College (Pune) nursing program.
  • Commissioning: Graduated and was commissioned as a Lieutenant (Military Nursing Service) on May 24, 2025.

The Selection Process

Entry into AFMC’s Officer-training program was fiercely competitive. Himani cleared the required exams and interviews to join the 55th batch of nursing cadets. Her selection followed years of preparation – balancing studies with military drills. By this stage, Himani had developed strong academic skills and physical endurance. Her induction into AFMC meant a four-year commitment: she would earn a B.Sc. (Nursing) while also learning leadership and military discipline. Throughout, she remained focused on her goal of serving in the Army medical corps. Local reports remark that this selection was the “final step” toward her dream, coming after her rigorous preparation.

AFMC Training

Once at AFMC Pune, Himani faced intense academic and military training. Each day began with physical drills before classes in anatomy, biology and nursing. She learned battlefield first-aid, ward management, and leadership in equal measure. According to reports, her “rigorous training, both academic and physical, came to fruition as she marched proudly at (her) Passing Out Parade”. The bonds of camaraderie grew strong among the cadets during this phase. The photo above captures this esprit de corps: peers in uniform sharing laughter and pride as they train together. In training and in exercises, Himani often took on leadership roles – organizing study groups and leading morning PT sessions. By the end of her course, she had earned top marks in nursing studies and received accolades for her leadership and dedication from her instructors.

Commissioning Day

The culmination of Himani’s journey came on a bright May morning at AFMC’s parade ground. On May 24, 2025, the 55th batch of nursing cadets stood assembled at the Capt. Devashish Sharma Kirti Chakra Parade Ground in Pune. The Reviewing Officer was Lieutenant General Pankaj P. Rao, Director and Commandant of AFMC. Brigadier Vandana Agnihotri and other senior officers took salutes as Himani marched with her classmates. Her family – father, mother and brother among them – watched with “eyes glistening with delight”. In the ceremony’s highlight, Himani’s Lieutenant’s bars and eagle insignia were ceremonially affixed to her uniform by college commanders. The very rank her father once wore was now on her shoulders. In a moving tribute, Madhau Singh Tomar stood by as his daughter’s new rank was pinned. According to witnesses, tears of pride rolled down their faces as Lt. Tomar took her oath of service – officially becoming a commissioned officer of the Indian Army.

Local Pride and National Applause

The Tomar family’s pride spread beyond their village. Local news celebrated Himani’s achievement as a landmark success story. Coverage noted that her accomplishment “made not only her family proud but also the entire state of Madhya Pradesh and the Chambal region” (which includes Morena). Neighbours and villagers rejoiced: banners appeared in Ambah honouring “Himani’s heroics,” and schoolchildren waved the national flag in salute. Villagers told reporters that seeing Himani stand at attention in uniform moved many to tears; one said it showed younger girls that rural children could reach any goal. As a local headline proclaimed, her new title as lieutenant “raised Madhya Pradesh’s honour” and inspired the community. In private, Himani’s parents spoke of indescribable pride – her mother said she felt Himani’s success was a gift to every girl in their village.

Vision for the Future

Now a Lieutenant in the Army’s Medical Corps, Himani Tomar is already looking ahead. She has expressed desire to serve in Army hospitals and field units, providing care to soldiers and civilians alike. More than a personal achievement, she views her commission as a message to young women. “No dream is too big and no goal too distant when you have the courage to chase it,” has become a slogan of her journey. Himani actively mentors other girls from her district – sharing study tips and speaking at schools about her experience. She often says that her success should encourage every daughter in rural India. As one report noted, her journey “sends a message to each girl from rural India that no dream is too large”. By breaking barriers, she hopes to inspire a new generation: “We have stepped into history so that daughters will believe they too can wear the uniform,” the report observed. Himani’s own mantra is now to push herself further – she plans to pursue specialization courses in military medicine and hopes to lead medical missions under the Tricolour.

Conclusion

Lt. Himani Tomar’s story is one of legacy and inspiration – a soldier born of soldiers. In her uniform she carries on the dreams and hard work of her father and brother, and she now wears the very Stars of the Officer’s rank her family saluted for years. From watching the stars being worn to wearing them herself, Himani Tomar has shown that courage and dedication can make any aspiration a reality. Her journey leaves a stirring legacy for her village and for all of India’s young daughters: with heart and effort, one can not only follow in family footsteps, but also blaze a new trail of service and pride.

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi Reviews Security and Operational Readiness in Uttarakhand

By
Adhidev Jasrotia
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Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi visited forward posts in Uttarakhand to assess the security situation and operational preparedness of Indian Army units deployed in the region. His visit highlights the strategic importance of the state, which shares a sensitive border with Tibet and has historically played a key role in India’s northern defence posture since the 1962 Sino-Indian War.

General Dwivedi interacted with troops of the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), acknowledging their dedication, endurance, and synergy in high-altitude terrain. The COAS praised the forces for maintaining high standards of vigilance under difficult conditions and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation between the Army and ITBP, whose work in border management and community outreach reflects its motto of “Development through active involvement.”

A major aspect of the visit was the focus on technology absorption in operational roles, aligning with the Indian Army’s ongoing modernization agenda under themes such as the “Year of Tech Absorption” and “Decade of Transformation.” General Dwivedi, known for championing automation and the use of niche technologies in previous commands, reiterated the need to integrate advanced systems to strengthen defence capabilities in difficult terrain and evolving threat environments.

The visit included detailed operational briefings, discussions with commanding officers, and interactions with veterans, reinforcing the Army’s commitment to preparedness and morale. General Dwivedi’s presence reaffirmed the Indian Army’s resolve to protect the nation’s frontiers with a blend of traditional strength and forward-looking innovation.

Indian Air Force Reportedly Fired 19 BrahMos Missiles at Pakistani Airbases in Operation Sindoor

By
Adhidev Jasrotia
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A month after India’s bold aerial counter-offensive against Pakistan, new intelligence and action reports have surfaced, revealing the full scale of Operation Sindoor. According to the Hindustan Times, the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched 19 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles targeting key Pakistani airbases between May 7 and May 10, in one of the largest coordinated missile strikes in South Asia in recent history.

In addition to the BrahMos missiles, the IAF deployed 19 French-origin SCALP subsonic cruise missiles as part of the same mission. These strikes were aimed at crippling Pakistan’s retaliatory capabilities and eliminating terror infrastructure, including a direct hit on the Lashkar-e-Taiba headquarters using Israeli-origin Crystal Maze missiles.

The Defence Ministry, under the leadership of Rajnath Singh, has since approved the replenishment and expansion of India’s missile and drone stockpile. This includes loitering munitions, longer-range air-to-air missiles, and Kamikaze drones, reflecting a strategic shift towards enhanced deterrence and rapid retaliation.

Digital surveillance and battle damage assessment reports now confirm that Pakistan lost four combat aircraft and two large transport planes during the strikes. In response, Pakistan fired PL-15 air-to-air missiles, Chinese-made weapons that attempted to repel the Indian aerial assault. Additionally, Pakistani forces activated two air defense fire units from Malir and Chaklala cantonments near Karachi in a failed attempt to intercept the incoming missile barrage.

The extent of the offensive underscores India’s evolving airpower doctrine, where rapid precision strikes are central to neutralizing threats. Operation Sindoor is now being seen as a defining moment in India’s military response policy and aerial warfare capability, backed by superior technology and intelligence coordination.

Indian Air Force Set to Acquire Rs 10,000 Crore Indigenous I-STAR Spy Planes

By
Adhidev Jasrotia
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The Indian Air Force (IAF) is on the verge of finalizing a Rs 10,000 crore project to acquire a fleet of Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (I-STAR) aircraft, in a move poised to significantly bolster its airborne intelligence and precision strike capabilities. The clearance for this major acquisition is expected by late June, marking a crucial milestone in India’s defense modernization efforts.

The project involves the procurement of three state-of-the-art spy planes, likely to be based on airframes from global aerospace leaders such as Boeing and Bombardier. These platforms will be equipped with indigenous sensors and data processing systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), ensuring that critical technologies remain under Indian control.

I-STAR platforms are designed to conduct real-time battlefield surveillance, detect enemy movements, and support precision targeting for ground strikes. The concept draws heavily from lessons learned during the 1999 Kargil War, where the IAF’s limited ISR capabilities hindered operational planning. Subsequent reports emphasized the need for dedicated airborne surveillance assets to gain battlefield transparency and strategic advantage.

According to defense analysts, the move mirrors global trends in ISR capability enhancement. A 2023 RAND Corporation study noted that such systems improve battlefield situational awareness by up to 30%, offering a substantial edge in modern warfare. As regional tensions persist, particularly along India’s western and northern borders, the induction of I-STAR aircraft is expected to enhance the IAF’s capacity to monitor and respond to emerging threats.

The initiative is also a part of the broader Make in India defense push, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign imports while fostering indigenous innovation. Though the delivery schedule and integration roadmap are still being finalized, the upcoming I-STAR fleet is seen as a transformative leap in India’s aerial reconnaissance and combat readiness strategy.

IAF Executes Landmark Multi-Organ Transplant Mission

By
Adhidev Jasrotia
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In an extraordinary act of medical coordination and military precision, the Indian Air Force (IAF), in collaboration with Command Hospital Air Force Bangalore (CHAFB), has successfully enabled a complex multi-organ transplant operation that has saved the lives of five patients. Conducted on June 7, the operation marks a milestone in India’s integrated defence-healthcare capabilities.

The mission began when a serving soldier, injured in a road accident in Kasaragod, Kerala, was evacuated to CHAFB on February 17, 2025. After extensive efforts to stabilize him, the soldier was declared brain dead. His family’s courageous decision to donate his organs laid the foundation for a life-saving operation spanning multiple cities.

An IAF aircraft airlifted one kidney and a cornea to Army Hospital (Research & Referral) in Delhi. Simultaneously, the second kidney and cornea were transplanted at CHAFB. In a national first, a skin harvesting procedure was conducted at CHAFB in coordination with Victoria Hospital, Bengaluru. The soldier’s liver was transplanted at Gleneagles BGS Hospital, with logistical and clinical support from Jeevansarthakathe Karnataka.

Key to the operation’s success was the creation of a ‘green corridor’ by Bengaluru police, facilitating the swift and uninterrupted transfer of organs from the hospital to the airbase. This method, modeled on international best practices, dramatically reduced transport time and ensured organ viability.

The operation also reflects a growing trend in India. According to the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), cadaver donations have risen by 30% between 2020 and 2024. Medical experts note that military aircraft use can improve organ survival rates by 15–20%, as per a 2023 study published in Transplantation.

The mission has been hailed by both medical professionals and defence officials as a landmark moment in India’s organ transplantation ecosystem, showcasing the vital role of civil-military cooperation in public health.

India Strengthens Defence Ecosystem with DRDO Technology Transfer

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Adhidev Jasrotia
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In a key step toward bolstering India’s defence self-reliance, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has transferred technologies for nine advanced systems to ten domestic industries. The transfer was facilitated by the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE) in Ahilyanagar on June 7, as part of the government’s ongoing push under the #AatmanirbharBharat initiative.

In parallel, VRDE signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with COEP Technological University to promote collaborative research and development in cutting-edge technologies. The partnership aims to bridge the gap between academia and defence manufacturing, fostering a culture of innovation and speed in product development.

The technologies transferred primarily focus on land systems and mobile weapon platforms—areas where VRDE has made significant strides in recent years. The initiative supports the broader national objective of reducing dependence on foreign imports, which has fallen from 65% in 2015 to 45% in 2023, as per the Ministry of Defence’s latest report.

India’s domestic defence production stood at Rs 1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24 and is projected to reach Rs 1.75 lakh crore in the current fiscal year. The government has set an ambitious long-term target of Rs 3 lakh crore in indigenous production by 2029.

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The academic collaboration is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving these goals. Experts note that partnerships like the one between VRDE and COEP can reduce development costs by up to 30%, while also accelerating timelines for deployment. A 2024 study published in Defence Technology supports this model, highlighting the impact of university-industry synergy on defence innovation.

The Ministry of Defence emphasized that ongoing technology development and knowledge sharing by DRDO and its establishments will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. The combined push for industrial and academic collaboration reaffirms India’s intent to become not just self-reliant, but a global supplier in the evolving defence landscape.

DRDO’s ATAGS Makes Global Debut with Armenian Induction

By
Adhidev Jasrotia
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India’s Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in partnership with Kalyani Strategic Systems, has been officially inducted into the Armenian Ground Forces. The ceremony marks the first overseas deployment of the 155mm/52-calibre artillery system, following an August 2023 deal in which Armenia ordered six units.

Valued at around $155 million, the export reflects India’s growing status as a global defence supplier and Armenia’s increasing defence cooperation with New Delhi. Armenia has previously procured Swathi Weapon Locating Radars and Pinaka multi-barrel rocket systems from India, indicating a strategic alignment in the defence sector.

ATAGS is equipped with advanced features including an AI-enabled fire control system, extended range, and rapid mobility, making it a modern and competitive alternative to legacy systems. The gun’s precision, ease of deployment, and low maintenance cost have earned it attention in global artillery circles.

This development adds to the export momentum of Kalyani Strategic Systems, which has secured over $600 million in international defence orders as of 2024. The ATAGS program is a flagship of India’s “Make in India” initiative, aimed at reducing dependency on foreign weapon systems and boosting indigenous defence manufacturing.

Armenia’s adoption of ATAGS also reflects growing global confidence in Indian defence products and marks a step forward in India’s outreach to new defence markets. As interest builds from other countries, the ATAGS continues to demonstrate the potential of Indian innovation in high-calibre defence systems.

MARCOS Lead Annual Anti-Hijack Drill at Dabolim Airport

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Adhidev Jasrotia
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The Indian Navy successfully conducted its annual anti-hijack drill on June 7 at INS Hansa, the naval airbase which also functions as Dabolim Airport. The exercise brought together elite forces and multiple agencies, highlighting India’s robust preparedness against potential aircraft hijacking threats.

The drill featured participation from the Navy’s elite Marine Commandos (MARCOS), the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), the National Security Guard (NSG), the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Goa State Police, and representatives from civil airlines.

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MARCOS, known for their intense selection process—where over 80% of candidates are filtered out during a strenuous three-day physical test followed by a week-long mental and physical endurance phase—executed the mission with trademark precision. The unit, whose training is modeled on global special forces like the US Navy SEALs and UK’s Special Boat Service, demonstrated high-level coordination with domestic security agencies.

The simulation began when the aircraft pilot requested emergency landing clearance, which was immediately approved by the Commanding Officer of INS Hansa. The Aerodrome Committee, led by the commanding officer, activated a full-scale emergency response involving bomb disposal teams, fire services, hospitals, and police forces.

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The drill was conducted in accordance with the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security manual, stressing inter-agency cooperation. Previous reports, including a 2023 drill, have similarly noted the professionalism of MARCOS in executing such complex scenarios. The location’s dual-use as both a military base and a civilian airport adds strategic depth to the exercise, drawing on historical security frameworks like the FAA’s Common Strategy I to promote effective crew and agency response.

This year’s anti-hijack drill underscores India’s continued commitment to aviation security through realistic simulations, elite force readiness, and inter-agency synergy at key strategic locations.

Sri Lankan Army Chief to Be Chief Guest at IMA Passing Out Parade on June 14

By
Adhidev Jasrotia
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The Indian Military Academy (IMA) is set to hold its prestigious Passing Out Parade (POP) on June 14, 2025. This year’s parade will witness Sri Lanka’s Army Chief, General Vikum Liyanage Lasantha Rodrigo, as the Chief Guest. He is expected to arrive in Dehradun on June 13.

Also Read: IMA Passing Out Parade to be Held on June 14, 2025

Sri Lanka Army Chief 1

India has established a strategic tradition of inviting military chiefs from neighboring countries to such ceremonial events as part of its broader diplomatic outreach. In December 2024, the Chief of the Nepal Army attended the POP as the chief guest. These invitations are seen as a part of India’s defence diplomacy, especially significant at a time when concerns are mounting over China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean region and its influence in countries like Sri Lanka.

Preparations for the POP are currently in full swing at the IMA campus. Cadets are undergoing intensive training and daily drills at the iconic Chetwode Drill Square, ensuring precision and discipline for the grand occasion. The parade is known not just for its ceremonial grandeur but also for reflecting the highest standards of military training and decorum.

The inclusion of General Rodrigo as the chief guest is also seen as a gesture of strategic importance. Many Sri Lankan cadets have received officer training at the IMA and now serve in the Sri Lankan Army. His presence is expected to further deepen military cooperation and strengthen defence ties between India and Sri Lanka.

BSF And Bangladesh Forces Exchange Sweets On Eid-al-Adha

By
Adhidev Jasrotia
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In a touching celebration of peace and mutual respect, personnel of the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) exchanged sweets at the Fulbari border on the occasion of Eid-al-Adha. The gesture, captured in a video that has since gone viral, reflects a longstanding tradition of goodwill between the two neighboring countries.

The exchange took place at the Fulbari border outpost in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, where members of both forces were seen smiling and handing over boxes of sweets, symbolizing friendship that goes beyond national boundaries. This kind of warm interaction is often witnessed during major festivals and serves to remind both nations of their cultural and social ties.

These ceremonies are especially meaningful for soldiers stationed far from their families. In such moments, the shared celebration provides a sense of warmth, unity, and shared humanity. Over the years, these exchanges have become symbolic of peace-building efforts, fostering mutual trust and respect.

Eid-al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. The day is marked by special prayers, community feasts, and charitable acts. For the men and women serving at the borders, celebrations like these not only offer spiritual significance but also bring moments of connection and shared culture.

This friendly interaction between BSF and BGB is a powerful example of how festivals can bridge divides, soften borders, and promote harmony between nations.

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