In a display of exceptional skill and dedication, the paramedical team from the Eastern Naval Command, led by Captain Arsha P of INHS Kalyani, clinched the top spot at the 5th Indian Naval Paramedical Skill Competition 2024.
The competition, held at the Indian Naval Station Asvini in Mumbai, showcased the high level of proficiency among naval paramedical personnel in managing medical and surgical emergencies.
The award ceremony was graced by Air Marshal MS Sridhar, DCIDS (Med), who served as the chief guest. His presence underscored the importance of the event in promoting excellence and dedication among the paramedical staff within the Indian Navy.
During the ceremony, the winning team was commended for their outstanding expertise and commitment, reflecting the superior caliber of the Navy’s medical personnel.
This annual competition is a critical platform for naval paramedical teams to demonstrate their skills and enhance their capabilities through rigorous challenges and scenarios that simulate real-world medical emergencies.
It not only tests their knowledge and adaptability but also fosters a spirit of teamwork and continuous learning among participants.
The victory by Captain Arsha P’s team highlights the Eastern Naval Command’s strong emphasis on advanced medical training and readiness.
This achievement not only honors the individuals and the team but also signifies the overall preparedness of naval medical personnel to handle emergencies effectively, contributing significantly to the operational readiness of the Indian Navy.
A distinguished team of Senior Medical Officers from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and the Ministry of Defence visited the Command Hospital Southern Command (SC) in Pune as part of the evaluation process for the prestigious Raksha Mantri Trophy. This award recognizes the best and second-best Armed Forces hospitals annually.
The inspection team, led by Lieutenant General Sadhna S Nair, VSM, Director General of Medical Services (Army), assessed the facilities and services provided by Command Hospital (SC).
The hospital is a former recipient of the Raksha Mantri Trophy, having won the award in 2022 and three times prior, establishing a consistent record of excellence in medical services within the armed forces.
During the visit, the team evaluated various aspects of the hospital’s operations, including medical care quality, patient satisfaction, and implementation of advanced medical practices.
The inspection is crucial for ensuring that the high standards set by previous winners continue to be met and advanced.
Command Hospital (SC) has been at the forefront of military medical services, offering state-of-the-art care to service personnel and their families.
This visit not only serves as an inspection for the Raksha Mantri Trophy but also highlights the ongoing commitment of the Indian Armed Forces to maintain superior medical facilities.
The results of this inspection will contribute to the decision-making process for this year’s Raksha Mantri Trophy awards, which aim to foster a spirit of healthy competition and continual improvement among Armed Forces medical facilities across the nation.
Lieutenant General J S Sidana, AVSM, Director General of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (DGEME) and Senior Colonel Commandant, conducted a comprehensive visit to the 515 Army Base Workshop in Bengaluru. This visit aimed to review the ongoing initiatives designed to enhance the combat potential and operational readiness of the unit.
During his visit, Lt Gen Sidana was briefed on several key projects and technologies being developed within the workshop, with a special emphasis on the integration of cutting-edge manufacturing techniques from the private sector.
Notably, the focus was on additive (3D printing) and hybrid technologies, which are pivotal in advancing the capabilities of the Indian Army in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative.
The General Officer explored collaborations that leverage modern manufacturing technologies, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign imports by enhancing the domestic production capabilities essential for national defense.
His visit underscores the strategic shift towards incorporating innovative and advanced technological solutions that bolster the army’s self-sufficiency and readiness.
Lt Gen Sidana’s engagement with the 515 Army Base Workshop highlights the broader efforts of the Indian Army to align its operations with the national goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing, thereby reinforcing the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision set forth by the government.
This initiative not only enhances operational efficiency but also supports the domestic industrial base, fostering growth and innovation within the country’s defense sector.
Lieutenant General Prit Pal Singh, AVSM, General Officer Commanding Sudarshan Chakra Corps, made a significant visit to the Bison Gunners unit in Coimbatore to assess their operational readiness.
During his visit, Lt Gen Singh focused on the critical areas of physical fitness, professional acumen, and the integration of the latest technology. He emphasized these elements as essential for enhancing the operational effectiveness of the unit.
The General Officer engaged with the gunners, reinforcing the importance of maintaining high standards and striving for excellence in all aspects of their duties.
Lt Gen Singh commended the unit for their ongoing efforts and encouraged all ranks to continue their dedication to excellence. This visit highlights the continuous efforts within the Indian Army to assess and improve the readiness and capabilities of its units, ensuring they remain prepared for various operational demands.
The Bison Gunners, known for their strategic importance in artillery operations, play a crucial role in the defense setup of the region.
The visit by the General Officer Commanding Sudarshan Chakra Corps serves as a motivational boost for the unit, underlining the high expectations and confidence placed in their operational abilities.
The Army Institute of Cardio Thoracic Sciences (AICTS) in Pune received a thorough inspection by the Raksha Mantri Trophy Inspection Team, led by Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair, VSM, Director General of Medical Services (Army), on Wednesday.
The inspection team toured various wards and departments, engaging with the hospital staff and patients to gauge the level of care and services provided. The visit also included a detailed review of the hospital’s operational functionalities, with a special focus on its preparedness in disaster management scenarios.
Lt Gen Sadhna Saxena Nair emphasized the importance of maintaining operational readiness and high standards in super speciality medical facilities within the military framework.
The AICTS, recognized for its advanced medical practices in cardiothoracic care, plays a vital role in treating armed forces personnel and their families.
This inspection is part of the annual evaluation for the Raksha Mantri Trophy, an award given to military hospitals that achieve excellence in medical services and operational readiness.
The outcome of this inspection will contribute to the continuous improvement and benchmarking of healthcare standards at military medical facilities across the nation.
Equivalent Ranks in the Indian Army Air Force and Navy: The Indian Armed Forces, comprising the Army, Navy, and Air Force, play a pivotal role in ensuring the nation’s security and sovereignty. The three branches, though distinct in their operations and roles, often collaborate and engage in joint missions.
To ensure smooth communication and collaboration, it’s essential to understand the equivalent ranks across these branches. In this article, we’ll examine the corresponding ranks in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Commissioned officers are the leading figures in the military hierarchy, responsible for significant decisions, strategizing, and managing the forces under their command.
General/Flag Officers
Indian Army Rank
Indian Navy Rank
Indian Air Force Rank
Field Marshal
Admiral of the Fleet
Marshal of the Air Force
General
Admiral
Air Chief Marshal
Lieutenant General
Vice Admiral
Air Marshal
Major General
Rear Admiral
Air Vice Marshal
Senior Officers
Indian Army Rank
Indian Navy Rank
Indian Air Force Rank
Brigadier
Commodore
Air Commodore
Colonel
Captain
Group Captain
Lieutenant Colonel
Commander
Wing Commander
Major
Lieutenant Commander
Squadron Leader
Junior Officers
Indian Army Rank
Indian Navy Rank
Indian Air Force Rank
Captain
Lieutenant
Flight Lieutenant
Lieutenant
Sub Lieutenant
Flying Officer
Equivalent Ranks JCOs, NCOs & Other Ranks
The Junior Commissioned officers (JCOs), non-commissioned officers (NCOs) and other ranks are integral to the operational efficiency of the forces. They are the bridge between the officers and the soldiers, ensuring the execution of orders and overall discipline.
Junior Commissioned Officers
Indian Army Rank
Indian Navy Rank
Indian Air Force Rank
Subedar Major
Master Chief Petty Officer I
Warrant Officer
Subedar
Master Chief Petty Officer II
Warrant Officer
Naib Subedar
Chief Petty Officer
Junior Warrant Officer
NCO/Other Ranks
Indian Army Rank
Indian Navy Rank
Indian Air Force Rank
Havildar
Petty Officer
Sergeant
Naik
Able Seaman
Corporal
Lance Naik
Leading Seaman
Leading Aircraftsman
Sepoy
Seaman
Aircraftman
Conclusion
The harmonious functioning of the Indian Armed Forces in joint missions relies on an understanding of the equivalent ranks across the branches. While the names and insignias might differ, the essence of their responsibilities is consistent. Recognizing these equivalencies facilitates mutual respect, ensures effective communication, and underpins the collective strength of the forces.
Deep in the rugged training camps of the Indian Para Special Forces, a transformation takes place. Ordinary men shed their civilian identities to be reforged into elite warriors – silent, fearless, and bound by an unbreakable brotherhood. Their path is one of profound sacrifice, of pushing mind and body to the limit in service of something greater than themselves. Yet within their extraordinary journey lie lessons that speak to us all.
Imagine a lone commando, camouflaged against the inky blackness of night, holding his breath as the chaos of battle rages around him. His heart thunders, yet he displays a stillness, a discipline of both body and mind that is his greatest weapon. In our daily lives, though the stakes may be lower, we too must learn the power of restraint – when to act, when to remain silent and still.
Now picture a fresh-faced recruit, fear gripping him as the first rounds shatter the silence. He could turn and run. Yet something within him, some ember of courage, compels him to stand his ground. We have all felt that fear when facing the unknown, those moments that can define who we become. Like that young soldier, we must confront our doubts and insecurities, allowing the fire of bravery to burn away the dross of fear.
In the aftermath of a deadly operation, a grizzled veteran sits across from a grieving family. Though laden with guilt, he does not shut down, but embraces the pain to extract lessons that will save future lives. When tragedy and setbacks inevitably mark our own paths, we too must summon the resilience to emerge stronger, wiser.
On a dusty training ground, commandos unite as one to relentlessly push through miles of grueling drills under a merciless sun. It is a covenant of support, of never leaving a brother behind. Alongside them, the elite commanders lead from the front, inspiring through action rather than mere words. These images of solidarity beckon us to nurture our own circles of trust, of uplifting communion where we can find strength.
At the day’s end, as the pour sweat soaks the parched earth, one warrior stands apart, headstone in hand, silently honoring the fallen. Though he has stared death in the eye and borne witness to unspeakable sacrifice, he remains humble, quietly crediting his survival to comrades and divine fortune. It is a powerful lesson in gratitude, in purging our souls of ego’s insidious grasp.
Within each prevailing member of this brotherhood beats a heart driven by sacred purpose – the defense of the nation, the preservation of peace. It is this purpose that propels them through even the darkest valleys, compels them to adapt and overcome every obstacle in their path. Do we harbor that same sense of drive and passion to imbue our own lives with meaning?
As civilians, we may never tread in their boots or experience the deprivations of their service. But if we embrace even a fraction of the commando’s ethos – his resilience, discipline, courage, and selflessness – we fortify our own life’s journey. We too can emerge victorious in our personal battles against fear, negativity, and complacency. We too can become warriors in our own right – warriors of the extraordinary spirit.
Life Lessons from a Para SF Commando
1. The Power of Silence: Strength in Stillness
In a covert mission deep within enemy lines, a Para SF commando remains motionless for hours. His breaths are shallow, his presence barely perceptible. This silence is his armor, shielding him and his team. Lesson: In life, there are moments when silence offers more strength than the loudest words. Learning when to speak and when to remain silent is a powerful tool in personal and professional relationships.
2. Courage Under Fire: Facing Your Fears
A young commando, on his first deployment, finds himself surrounded by the chaos of battle. Bullets whizz past, yet he advances, his heart pounding in his chest. Lesson: True courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to face it. Embrace your fears, step forward, and let your actions speak of your heart’s courage.
3. Resilience in Adversity: Bouncing Back Stronger
After a failed operation that costs lives, a seasoned commando visits the families of his fallen comrades. He shares their grief, then returns, determined to learn from the tragedy. Lesson: Life will knock you down, but resilience lies in your capacity to rise, learn from your mistakes, and move forward with renewed vigor.
4. Brotherhood: The Bonds That Build Us
In the trenches, a commando risks his life to drag his injured brother-in-arms to safety. Their bond, forged in the crucible of combat, is unbreakable. Lesson: Surround yourself with people who uplift you, stand by you in your darkest hours, and celebrate your successes as their own.
5. Discipline: The Foundation of Success
Each morning begins with a rigorous regimen of physical training, tactical drills, and mental preparation. A commando knows the value of discipline; it is the bedrock of his operational readiness. Lesson: Success in any field requires discipline. Set goals, establish routines, and adhere to them with unwavering commitment.
6. Leadership: Inspiring by Example
During a rescue operation, a commando leader is the first to enter a hostile zone, setting a brave example for his team. His actions inspire his unit to follow without hesitation. Lesson: Leadership is about making tough decisions under pressure, leading by example, and inspiring others to achieve greater heights.
7. Humility: The Quiet Warrior
Despite numerous decorations and accolades, a veteran commando remains humble, attributing his success to his team. Lesson: True greatness lies in humility. Recognize the contributions of others, remain grounded, and always respect those around you, regardless of their status.
8. Mental Fortitude: The Mind as a Weapon
A commando captured by hostile forces withstands intense interrogation without breaking. His weapon is not his physical strength but his iron-clad mental fortitude. Lesson: Strengthen your mind through constant learning and challenges. A strong mind is your best defense against life’s adversities.
9. Adaptability: The Art of Overcoming Obstacles
During an unexpected storm, a mission’s parameters change drastically. The commando quickly adapts, devising new strategies to accomplish the mission. Lesson: Be flexible and adaptable. Life is unpredictable, and success often depends on your ability to adjust to changing circumstances quickly and effectively.
10. Purpose and Passion: The Drive Within
A commando, deep in reflection after a successful mission, considers why he chose this path. It’s the passion to serve his country, a purpose that fuels his every action. Lesson: Find your purpose and let your passion drive you. Whether it’s serving your nation, excelling in your career, or supporting your family, let your purpose guide your journey.
Conclusion
From the hallowed grounds of the Para SF training centers to the stealthy operations across global frontiers, these commandos teach us that the principles of military life have profound applications in our daily lives. Each lesson is a testament to the spirit of these warriors, encouraging us to strive for excellence, face our fears, and live with honor and bravery. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us take inspiration from these heroes and embody the resilience, determination, and heart of a Para SF Commando.
In the annals of India’s military history, the elite Para Special Forces (Para SF) stand out as a shining beacon of bravery, skill, and unwavering dedication. These exceptional soldiers, known for their unparalleled training and uncompromising commitment to their nation, have earned a reputation that commands reverence and awe.
Among their many distinguishing traits, one tradition has captured the public’s imagination – the ritual of “glass eating.”
The Para SF’s distinctive maroon beret is more than just a sartorial emblem; it is a badge of honor, forged in the crucible of their arduous training and steeped in the legacy of those who have come before. The beret’s color, it is said, is a testament to the blood and sacrifice of the soldiers who have worn it, a vivid reminder of the price they are willing to pay in service of their country.
Pushing the Boundaries of Human Endurance
The training regimen of the Para SF is renowned for its unrelenting intensity, designed to push the limits of human physical and mental resilience. From surviving in the wilderness on a diet of plants and insects to mastering specialized infiltration techniques, these soldiers are molded into the embodiment of fearlessness and adaptability.
The Glass Eating Ritual: A Rite of Passage
At the culmination of their grueling 90-day training, the Para SF Jawans (soldiers) are subjected to a ritual that has become synonymous with their mystique – the glass eating ceremony. This practice, which may seem both extraordinary and unsettling to the uninitiated, is a testament to the extraordinary mental and physical fortitude of these elite warriors.
The Patiyala Peg Challenge
As the final step in their initiation, the Jawans are presented with a “Patiyala Peg” – a measure of rum or another potent spirit that extends from the index finger to the pinky finger. For the average person, the task of consuming this substantial quantity of alcohol would be daunting enough. But for the Para SF, this is merely the prelude to the true test of their mettle.
Transcending the Limits of Human Behavior
Rather than simply downing the contents of the glass, the Jawans are required to take the ritual one step further. They must bite off a piece of the glass rim, chew it until it becomes a fine powder, and then swallow it. This act, which defies the natural instincts of self-preservation, serves as a symbolic representation of the Para SF’s ability to push beyond the boundaries of normal human behavior.
The Significance of Glass Eating
The glass eating ritual holds profound significance for the Para SF. It is a physical manifestation of their unwavering courage, their ability to confront and overcome pain, and their determination to exceed the limitations that constrain ordinary individuals. By consuming the glass, the Jawans demonstrate their mastery over their own bodies and minds, a feat that earns them the revered Maroon Beret and the respect of their peers.
Dispelling Misconceptions
While the glass eating ritual has captured the public’s imagination, it is essential to address the misconceptions that often surround this practice. Contrary to popular belief, the Jawans do not directly swallow the glass. Instead, they carefully chew the fragments until they are reduced to a powdery consistency, which is then safely ingested. This method, while still challenging, minimizes the risk of internal injury.
The Importance of Training and Discipline
The glass eating ritual is not an act of reckless bravado, but rather a testament to the rigorous training and unwavering discipline that defines the Para SF. These soldiers undergo extensive physical and mental conditioning, honing their senses and reflexes to the point where they can safely navigate even the most daunting of tasks.
Fearlessness and Superiority
The glass eating tradition serves to foster a profound sense of fearlessness and superiority within the Para SF. By demonstrating their ability to confront and overcome a challenge that would be unthinkable for the average person, these elite soldiers cultivate a deep-seated belief in their own invincibility and the unparalleled nature of their abilities.
The Reputation of the Para SF
The reputation of the Para SF as the most formidable and specialized unit within the Indian Army is well-deserved. Their exploits, including the legendary 2016 Surgical Strike and Operation Ginger, have cemented their status as the vanguard of the nation’s defense. The glass eating ritual, while not an official part of their training, has become a symbolic representation of their unwavering commitment and their willingness to push the boundaries of human endurance.
Inspiring Future Generations
The mystique surrounding the Para SF and their glass eating ritual has captivated the imagination of countless aspiring soldiers. For those who dream of joining the ranks of these elite warriors, the glass eating ceremony serves as a tangible symbol of the level of dedication, discipline, and sheer determination required to earn the coveted Maroon Beret.
The Para SF, with their unparalleled training, uncompromising dedication, and unwavering courage, stand as the guardians of India’s security and sovereignty. The glass eating ritual, while unconventional, is a testament to their unbreakable spirits and their steadfast commitment to their duty. As the nation looks to these elite soldiers for inspiration and protection, the legend of the “Glass Eaters” will continue to endure, a shining beacon of the indomitable spirit that defines the very essence of the Para SF.
29 August 2024 – Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair, NM, officially assumed command as the new Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy (INA) on 29 August 2024. He succeeds Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty in this prestigious role.
Commissioned into the Indian Navy on 1 July 1991, Vice Admiral Nair has had a distinguished career as a Surface Warfare officer, specializing in Communications and Electronic Warfare. He is an alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington and the US Naval War College in Newport, USA. Additionally, he holds an M.Phil. in Defence and Strategic Studies from Mumbai University.
Throughout his service, Vice Admiral Nair has held several key positions. He served as the Signal Communication Officer aboard various Indian Navy ships, as the Fleet Electronic Warfare Officer, and later as the Fleet Communications Officer of the Western Fleet. From 2018 to 2019, he held the role of Fleet Operations Officer of the Eastern Fleet.
His sea commands include the missile corvette INS Kirch, the Guided Missile Destroyer INS Chennai, and the Indian Navy’s largest warship, Aircraft Carrier INS Vikramaditya. Onshore, his appointments have included serving as Directing Staff at the Naval War College in Goa, Officer-in-Charge at Signal School, and Commodore (Personnel) at the Directorate of Personnel, Naval Headquarters. Notably, he was also a member of the Indian Naval Strategic and Operational Council (INSOC) for over three years.
In January 2022, upon his promotion to Rear Admiral, Vice Admiral Nair was appointed Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Policy and Plans) at Naval Headquarters. Before his recent elevation to Vice Admiral and subsequent appointment as Commandant of the INA, he commanded the Western Fleet of the Indian Navy.
Vice Admiral Nair’s extensive experience and leadership in various capacities across the Indian Navy will undoubtedly guide the Indian Naval Academy to new heights as he takes on this critical role.
A specialized delegation from the Royal Army of Oman, consisting of four Subject Matter Experts on Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS), recently visited the Army Air Defence College (AADC) in Gopalpur. This visit facilitated a significant exchange of knowledge and experiences related to CUAS, emphasizing best practices and lessons learned from recent global conflicts.
During their time at the AADC, the Omani delegation and their Indian counterparts delved into various strategic discussions aimed at enhancing CUAS capabilities. The focus was on understanding the evolving threats posed by unmanned aerial systems in contemporary warfare and the effective measures to counter such challenges.
The interaction provided an opportunity for both sides to share insights and analyze different approaches and technologies that have been successful in the CUAS domain. By reviewing recent global conflicts where CUAS strategies were crucial, the teams explored potential areas for improvement and innovation in their respective defense systems.
The visit underscores the growing importance of international cooperation in military training and strategic defense, particularly in areas as critical as air defence and unmanned system countermeasures. Such collaborations are vital for keeping pace with rapid technological advancements and emerging security threats in modern warfare.
The discussions not only strengthened the ties between the Indian Army and the Royal Army of Oman but also set the stage for future collaborations and joint training initiatives that could benefit both nations in securing their skies against unauthorized drone activities.
