In a prestigious ceremony held in New Delhi on March 19, 2024, the Raksha Mantri Trophy for the Best and Second Best Command Hospitals of the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) for the year 2022 was presented by Director General Armed Forces Medical Services and Senior Colonel Comdt, Army Medical Corps, Lieutenant General Daljit Singh.

The Command Hospital (Southern Command), Pune, and the Command Hospital (Central Command), Lucknow, were honored as the Best and Second Best Command Hospitals for their exemplary performance in the year 2022.

The event, graced by distinguished members of the AFMS leadership and esteemed guests, served as a platform to recognize and commend the outstanding contributions of these medical institutions to the healthcare services provided by the armed forces.

Lieutenant General Daljit Singh, while presenting the awards, applauded the exceptional performance of the two hospitals and acknowledged the commendable services rendered by the AFMS across various domains, including combat medical support and state-of-the-art healthcare services.

Highlighting the versatility and preparedness of the AFMS to meet diverse challenges, Lieutenant General Daljit Singh emphasized the pivotal role played by the medical corps in providing medical support during both operational deployments and peacetime.

He reaffirmed the AFMS’s unwavering commitment to excellence and professionalism, underscoring its readiness to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief whenever called upon.

Furthermore, Lieutenant General Daljit Singh announced the expansion of the competition from the year 2023 onwards, with the inclusion of the Army Institute of Cardio-Thoracic Sciences (AICTS), Pune, and the Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. This decision aims to further enhance the spirit of healthy competition among AFMS hospitals and foster continuous improvement in healthcare services.

The award ceremony, attended by high-ranking officials and dignitaries from the AFMS and related departments, symbolized the AFMS’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of medical care and service excellence. It also underscored the importance of recognizing and promoting excellence in healthcare delivery within the armed forces community.

The Raksha Mantri Trophy, instituted in 1989, holds significant prestige within the AFMS and serves as a symbol of recognition for hospitals that demonstrate exceptional performance and commitment to excellence.

The selection process for the award involves a rigorous assessment based on objective performance indicators, ensuring transparency and fairness in the evaluation process.

As the AFMS continues its mission to provide quality healthcare services to armed forces personnel and their families, the Raksha Mantri Trophy serves as a beacon of inspiration, motivating hospitals to strive for continuous improvement and excellence in healthcare delivery. Through such initiatives, the AFMS reaffirms its commitment to the well-being and welfare of those serving in the defense of the nation.

In a poignant homage to the heroes of the past, a delegation from the Republic of Korea Air Force, led by General Lee Youngsu, Chief of Staff, visited the 60 Parachute Field Hospital, marking a significant recognition of the Indian Army’s contributions during the Korean War.

This visit underscores the enduring bonds of friendship and mutual respect between India and South Korea, tracing back to the years of conflict in the early 1950s.

The 60 Para Field Ambulance, an elite unit of the Indian Army, played a pivotal role in providing medical and humanitarian assistance during the Korean War, showcasing unparalleled bravery and commitment.

Their efforts not only saved countless lives but also served as a testament to India’s dedication to global peace and humanitarian principles.

During the visit, General Lee Youngsu and his delegation paid their respects to the brave hearts of the Korean War, acknowledging the sacrifices and the spirit of trans-national cooperation demonstrated by the Indian Army.

This gesture of remembrance and honor highlights the significant impact of the 60 Para Field Ambulance’s contributions and the lasting legacy of India’s involvement in the Korean War.

The commemoration of these historical ties between India and South Korea, reflects the deep-rooted connection and mutual admiration between the two nations.

As we remember the valor and humanity of those who served in the Korean War, this visit serves as a reminder of the power of unity and the enduring impact of helping others in times of crisis.

In a daring display of courage and skill, Indian Army paratroopers have undertaken fearless dives from fixed-wing airborne platforms, demonstrating their proficiency in parachuting techniques amidst challenging conditions.

The exercises, conducted under the banner of “Capability Building: Combat Ready to Exploit the Third Dimension,” signify the Army’s relentless pursuit of excellence and readiness to operate across diverse terrains and scenarios.

Amidst the backdrop of rugged landscapes and turbulent skies, paratroopers from the Indian Army took to the air, embarking on a series of high-altitude jumps aimed at honing their airborne capabilities and enhancing their operational readiness. Equipped with unwavering determination and unwavering resolve, these brave soldiers plunged into the unknown, mastering the art of parachuting with precision and finesse.

The exercises, meticulously planned and executed by the Army, provided paratroopers with invaluable opportunities to refine their parachuting skills, adapt to challenging environments, and overcome unforeseen obstacles.

From navigating through strong winds to landing with pinpoint accuracy, the paratroopers demonstrated their ability to thrive in the face of adversity, embodying the Army’s ethos of courage, discipline, and resilience.

Speaking about the significance of the exercises, senior Army officials emphasized the importance of leveraging the third dimension in modern warfare and the critical role played by paratroopers in enabling rapid deployment and strategic maneuverability.

The exercises also underscored the Army’s unwavering commitment to embracing innovation and embracing new technologies to enhance its operational capabilities.

From employing advanced parachuting equipment to leveraging real-time data and analytics, the Army continues to invest in cutting-edge technologies and training methodologies to ensure that its personnel remain at the forefront of military excellence.

As the exercises concluded, paratroopers returned to solid ground, their spirits uplifted and their skills sharpened by the challenges they had overcome.

Their fearless dives into the unknown serve as a reminder of the Indian Army’s indomitable spirit, its readiness to face any challenge, and its unwavering dedication to safeguarding the nation’s security and sovereignty.

Looking ahead, the Indian Army remains committed to advancing its airborne capabilities, building on the success of these exercises to further enhance its operational readiness and effectiveness.

Through continuous training, innovation, and collaboration, the Army will continue to strengthen its position as a formidable force capable of meeting the dynamic security challenges of the 21st century.

As the sun sets on the training grounds, the echoes of parachutes unfurling and boots hitting the ground serve as a testament to the Army’s unwavering resolve and its readiness to leap into the unknown, forging ahead with courage and determination to secure a brighter future for the nation.

In a significant event that marks the confluence of sportsmanship and military discipline, the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun has proudly kicked off the much-awaited Sabhiki Cup 2024. The sports meet, renowned for its high competitive spirit and camaraderie among the participating teams, is being hosted with much fanfare and enthusiasm this year.

Maj Gen Alok Naresh, the Deputy Commandant & Chief Instructor of IMA Dehradun, extended a warm welcome to the teams from across the nation’s premier military training institutions. The event sees the participation of elite academies including the National Defence Academy (NDA) Khadakwasla, the Indian Naval Academy (INA) Ezhimala, the Air Force Academy (AFA) Dundigal, and the Officers Training Academies (OTA) in Chennai and Gaya.

This gathering of India’s future military leaders on the sports field is not just a testament to their physical prowess but also a celebration of the values of teamwork, leadership, and mutual respect that are integral to military ethos. “May the best team win,” echoed through the opening ceremony, encapsulating the spirit of healthy competition and sportsmanship that the Sabhiki Cup embodies.

The Sabhiki Cup 2024 promises an array of exciting sports events, aiming to foster a strong spirit of camaraderie and competition among the participants. It stands as a beacon of the holistic development approach that these institutions inculcate in their cadets, blending physical fitness with tactical and strategic training.

As the games proceed, eyes are set on witnessing some remarkable performances and potentially record-breaking moments that will be etched in the annals of the Sabhiki Cup history. The event not only showcases the athletic talents of the cadets but also strengthens inter-academy relations, paving the way for future military leaders to understand and appreciate the power of unity and teamwork.

The IMA Dehradun, with its rich heritage and commitment to excellence, provides the perfect backdrop for this prestigious event, underscoring the importance of physical education and sports in shaping well-rounded military officers. As the competition unfolds, the spirit of “May the best team win” will undoubtedly inspire all participants to push their limits and strive for excellence, embodying the highest ideals of service and dedication to the nation.

In a landmark moment for national security discourse, Ajit Doval, the National Security Advisor (NSA) to the Government of India, delivered a stirring keynote address to delegates of the inaugural Indian Strategic Thinking and Engagement Programme (IN STEP) at the National Defence College in New Delhi on March 18th.

Against the backdrop of the prestigious institution, NSA Ajit Doval emphasized the pivotal role of strategic partnerships in regional security and stressed the importance of a collaborative approach towards the nation-building process.

The IN STEP programme, envisioned as a platform for fostering strategic thinking and engagement among emerging leaders and policymakers, marks a significant milestone in India’s efforts to cultivate a cadre of informed and visionary thinkers in the realm of national security and foreign policy.

Bringing together delegates from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, the programme aims to facilitate nuanced discussions, exchange of ideas, and strategic collaboration on critical security challenges facing the nation.

In his keynote address, NSA Ajit Doval underscored the imperative for strategic partnerships in addressing contemporary security threats and challenges. He emphasized the need for India to forge robust alliances and collaborative frameworks with like-minded nations to safeguard its interests and promote regional stability.

Drawing upon his extensive experience in national security affairs, Doval highlighted the importance of cultivating relationships based on mutual trust, respect, and shared values, stating, “In an interconnected and interdependent world, strategic partnerships are essential for advancing our common goals and confronting shared challenges.”

Furthermore, NSA Ajit Doval underscored the significance of a collaborative approach towards the nation-building process, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts across government agencies, civil society, and the private sector to address complex socio-economic and security challenges facing the nation.

He stressed the importance of harnessing the collective wisdom, resources, and expertise of all stakeholders to foster inclusive growth, promote social cohesion, and strengthen India’s resilience in the face of emerging threats and disruptions.

Following his keynote address, NSA Ajit Doval engaged in an interactive session with the delegates of the IN STEP programme, exchanging insights, perspectives, and ideas on a wide range of strategic and security issues.

The session provided an invaluable opportunity for delegates to glean insights from one of the nation’s foremost security experts, engage in constructive dialogue, and broaden their understanding of the complexities of contemporary security challenges.

The maiden IN STEP programme at the National Defence College represents a significant milestone in India’s efforts to nurture a new generation of strategic thinkers and leaders equipped to navigate the complexities of the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Through initiatives such as these, India seeks to foster a culture of strategic foresight, innovation, and collaboration, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of regional and global efforts to promote peace, stability, and prosperity.

As the IN STEP programme progresses, it is poised to emerge as a catalyst for transformative change, empowering delegates to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s security discourse, shape strategic policies, and chart a course towards a more secure, prosperous, and resilient future for India and its people.

Under the guidance of visionary leaders like NSA Ajit Doval, the programme holds the promise of inspiring a new generation of strategic thinkers and policymakers committed to advancing India’s strategic interests and upholding its cherished values on the global stage.

In a significant diplomatic exchange underscoring the robust partnership between India and the United States, Raksha Mantri (Defence Minister) Shri Rajnath Singh engaged in a telephonic conversation with US Secretary of Defence Mr. Lloyd Austin on March 18, 2024.

The dialogue served as a platform for the two leaders to discuss a wide range of bilateral, regional security, and defence cooperation issues, reaffirming the enduring strength of the India-US strategic partnership.

During the telephonic conversation, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin reviewed recent bilateral events that have strengthened ties between the two nations. Specifically, they discussed the successful INDUS-X Summit, held in New Delhi in February 2024, which provided a forum for constructive dialogue and cooperation on defense and security matters.

Furthermore, the Ministers acknowledged the commencement of the bilateral Tri-Service exercise ‘Tiger Triumph’ in India on the same day, further enhancing interoperability and strategic alignment between the armed forces of both nations.

Of particular note was the US Secretary of Defence’s appreciation for the significant role played by the Indian Navy in conducting anti-piracy operations in the Indian Ocean Region. This recognition underscores the pivotal role of India in maintaining maritime security and stability in one of the world’s most critical maritime domains.

The conversation also delved into the implementation of the India-US Defence Cooperation Roadmap, which was concluded last year. Both Ministers expressed their commitment to further strengthening defence ties through enhanced cooperation in areas such as joint exercises, information sharing, and technology transfer.

Furthermore, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin discussed defence industrial cooperation issues, including the possibility of US naval ships being repaired in Indian shipyards. This discussion reflects the growing confidence and trust between the two nations in the realm of defence manufacturing and infrastructure development.

The telephonic conversation between Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin is a continuation of the regular high-level engagements between India and the United States, aimed at deepening strategic cooperation and fostering mutual understanding.

It follows their last meeting in New Delhi in November 2023 during the India-US Ministerial 2+2 Dialogue, where both nations reaffirmed their commitment to advancing shared security interests and promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

As India and the United States continue to strengthen their defence partnership, the telephonic conversation between Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin underscores the importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing shared security challenges and advancing common interests in the evolving geopolitical landscape.