Major General Atul Kumar Bhat has officially assumed command of the prestigious White Tiger Division, taking over as the 33rd General Officer Commanding from Maj Gen M K Mathur.
The change of command ceremony took place amidst the traditions of the Indian Army, underscoring the continuity and legacy of the elite division.
Upon assuming command, Maj Gen Bhat addressed the troops, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their soldierly zeal and striving for excellence.
He urged all ranks to ensure that they remain combat-ready at all times, highlighting the critical nature of their readiness in maintaining national security.
The White Tiger Division is part of the Sudarshan Chakra Corps, known for its rigorous standards and significant role in the Indian Army’s operations.
Maj Gen Bhat’s leadership comes at a time when the division continues to uphold its distinguished reputation of valor and effectiveness.
Maj Gen Bhat’s call to action reinforces the division’s commitment to operational excellence and preparedness, ensuring that the White Tiger Division remains a formidable force within the Indian Army.
In the annals of the Indian Army’s storied history, few paths to the officer corps have been as unconventional and inspiring as that of Lieutenant Aakash Rana. Aakash represents the fourth generation of his family to serve in the armed forces, a lineage that includes his father, a retired officer from the 69th Armored Regiment who now manages a branch of HCPG in Dehradun.
His familial ties to the military are further underscored by the careers of his sisters—one an operational executive at Alstone, and the other a flight attendant with Indigo—highlighting a family tradition of varied and distinguished service.
Aakash’s journey into the military was preceded by remarkable academic and athletic accomplishments. He earned an MBA from Uttaranchal University, specializing in Marketing with a minor in International Business, after completing a BSc in the science stream. However, it was in the field of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) where Aakash first made his mark.
He began his martial arts career by earning a Dan 1 grade black belt in Shotokan karate in 2012. His prowess quickly became evident as he claimed national champion titles in Muay Thai and K1 in 2013 and 2014, respectively, and triumphed in the India Open MMA Championship in 2016 in the lightweight category. His success in the ring led him to a professional stint with the Super Fight League, representing the Haryana team.
Despite his achievements in MMA, Aakash’s transition to the military was not straightforward. His initial attempts to join through the 10+2 Technical entries for the Army and Navy, and the National Defence Academy, were met with setbacks.
After multiple screenings and rejections between 2013 and 2018, including a period when contractual obligations with MMA prevented him from pursuing any exams, he momentarily joined the Indian Army as a clerk. His resolve, however, remained unshaken.
His military career saw a promising start in the Madras Engineer Group, where he excelled in the boxing wing, winning battalion silver medals in both boxing and Graeco-Roman wrestling. Hindered by administrative challenges and repeated rejections from further attempts at the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exams, Aakash was encouraged by a supportive company commander to try for the Army Cadet College (ACC).
His perseverance paid off when he cleared the ACC exam, excelled in regimental tests, and was selected for the prestigious Young Leaders Course (YLC) at the Young Leaders Training Wing of the Officers Training Academy in Chennai. Later he cleared the ACC SSB Interview and was ready to join the ACC wing of the Indian Military Academy, meanwhile due to Covid-19 he was posted in JnK.
Despite an eye injury that temporarily sidelined him, Aakash’s dedication never wavered. He was awarded the Commandant’s silver medal for excellence in humanities, won the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) gold medal for best course performance, and was named Mr. IMA in 2024.
Upon graduating from the Indian Military Academy, he was selected for the highly competitive Para SF probation, marking the beginning of what promises to be an illustrious military career.
Lieutenant Aakash Rana’s journey from an MMA champion to a respected army officer encapsulates the spirit of determination and resilience. His story is not just about personal triumph but also about the rich legacy of military service that runs in his family, serving as a beacon of inspiration for both current and future generations of India’s armed forces.
The Indian Navy’s INS Brahmaputra, a storied vessel with a rich history, recently made headlines after a fire incident at the Mumbai naval dockyard. While the details of the incident are still unfolding, this tragic event has brought renewed attention to this remarkable ship and its significance within the Indian naval fleet.
In this comprehensive article, we delve into the captivating story of INS Brahmaputra, uncovering five fascinating facts that shed light on its illustrious past, cutting-edge capabilities, and the enduring legacy it has carved for itself. From its unique name and distinctive crest to its impressive technical specifications and role in maritime warfare, this article promises to take you on an enlightening journey through the annals of one of India’s most celebrated naval assets.
The name “Brahmaputra” holds immense significance, as it is derived from the famous river that flows through the state of Assam in India. This mighty river, revered for its cultural and ecological importance, has now lent its name to a formidable vessel that proudly represents the nation’s naval prowess. The choice of this name is a testament to the ship’s deep-rooted connection to the region and its people, serving as a symbol of the country’s rich heritage and the unwavering spirit of its maritime forces.
The Brahmaputra-Class Frigate
INS Brahmaputra is the first of the indigenously built “Brahmaputra” class of guided-missile frigates, a testament to India’s growing self-reliance in naval shipbuilding. These state-of-the-art vessels are designed to excel in a wide range of maritime operations, from coastal defense to blue-water deployments. The Brahmaputra-class frigates boast impressive dimensions, with a displacement of 5,300 tonnes, a length of 125 meters, and a beam of 14.4 meters, making them a formidable presence on the high seas.
Cutting-Edge Capabilities
The INS Brahmaputra is equipped with a comprehensive array of advanced sensors and weaponry, ensuring its readiness for a diverse range of maritime challenges. Its arsenal includes medium-range, close-range, and anti-aircraft guns, as well as surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, along with torpedo launchers. Additionally, the ship is capable of operating Seaking and Chetak helicopters, further enhancing its versatility and reach. This impressive suite of capabilities allows the INS Brahmaputra to effectively engage in surface warfare, air defense, and anti-submarine operations, making it a vital asset in the Indian Navy’s strategic arsenal.
A Crew of Skilled Professionals
The INS Brahmaputra is manned by a dedicated crew of 40 officers and 330 sailors, each playing a crucial role in the ship’s seamless operations. These highly trained personnel are responsible for the vessel’s navigation, weapons systems, and overall combat readiness, ensuring that the INS Brahmaputra is always prepared to respond to any maritime challenge. The ship’s crew embodies the spirit of professionalism and unwavering commitment that is the hallmark of the Indian Navy, serving as a testament to the nation’s investment in developing a world-class naval force.
The Symbolic Crest
The INS Brahmaputra’s crest is a striking visual representation of the ship’s identity and the region it represents. The crest features a grey, one-horned Indian rhinoceros, a iconic symbol of the Assam region, set against a brown background and overlaid with white and blue sea waves. This distinctive design not only pays homage to the ship’s namesake river but also serves as a proud emblem of the Indian Navy’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests, both in the coastal regions and the open seas.
The INS Brahmaputra stands as a testament to India’s naval prowess and the country’s unwavering dedication to self-reliance in defense. From its inspiring name to its cutting-edge capabilities and skilled crew, this vessel embodies the spirit of the Indian Navy and the nation it serves. As the details of the recent fire incident continue to unfold, the INS Brahmaputra’s resilience and the commitment of its personnel will undoubtedly shine through, solidifying its place as a revered and integral part of India’s maritime defense strategy.
A fire erupted on the INS Brahmaputra, an Indian Navy multirole frigate, while undergoing maintenance at the Mumbai naval dockyard. The incident occurred on Sunday evening, and efforts to extinguish the fire continued into Monday morning.
Despite the prompt response from the ship’s crew and firefighters from the Naval Dockyard and other ships in the harbor, the frigate began listing to one side by Monday afternoon.
The Indian Navy has reported that all personnel have been accounted for, except for one junior sailor who is currently missing. Search and rescue operations for the sailor are ongoing.
INS Brahmaputra F31
The navy has initiated an inquiry to investigate the cause and circumstances of the incident.
The INS Brahmaputra, commissioned in April 2000, is the first of the indigenously built ‘Brahmaputra’ class guided missile frigates. The ship is equipped with medium and close-range guns, surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, and torpedo launchers.
It also supports operations for Seaking and Chetak helicopters. The frigate has a crew of 40 officers and 330 sailors, measures 125 meters in length, and displaces 5,300 tonnes.
This accident underscores the risks associated with ship maintenance and operations within the confined spaces of a naval dockyard. Further details are expected as the navy’s investigation progresses.
In a groundbreaking development for the Indian Army, Captain Supreetha CT from Mysuru has been recognized as the first woman officer from the Corps of Army Air Defence to be operationally deployed at Siachen Glacier, the highest battlefield in the world.
Born to Thirumalesh, a police sub-inspector, and Nirmala, a homemaker, Captain Supreetha’s ascent from the tranquil environment of Mysuru to the formidable Siachen Glacier epitomizes her steadfast determination and trailblazing spirit.
Commissioned as a lieutenant in 2021, she underwent extensive training at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai, which equipped her for demanding roles within the Army Air Defence unit. Her impressive service record includes deployments to strategically important locations such as Anantnag, Jabalpur, and Leh, leading up to her significant posting to Siachen Glacier on July 18.
Thirumalesh, stationed at Talakadu Police Station in Chamarajanagar district, voiced his immense pride in his daughter’s accomplishments. “Supreetha has always been determined and focused. Her journey to Siachen is a dream come true for her and an inspiration to many,” he stated.
Captain Supreetha’s educational background is equally distinguished. She attended Shastri Vidya Samsthe in Hunsur, St Mary’s in HD Kote, St Joseph’s in KR Nagar, and Marimallappa’s School in Mysuru. She completed her LLB at JSS Law College and also obtained a BBA degree.
Her dedication was evident early on as she earned the NCC Air Wing C Certificate, represented Karnataka at the All-India Vayu Sainik Camp, and participated in the prestigious Republic Day Parade in New Delhi in 2016.
In a personal milestone, Captain Supreetha married Major Jerry Blaiz in 2024. Major Blaiz, the son of Colonel (retired) Richard Blaiz and Lieutenant Colonel Vijayalakshmi, along with his wife, made headlines this year as the first couple to participate together in the Republic Day parade.
Captain Supreetha’s pioneering deployment not only marks a significant personal achievement but also symbolizes a progressive shift towards greater inclusivity in combat roles within the Indian Army.
In a landmark achievement for the Indian Army, Colonel Anshu Jamwal has become the first woman officer to lead an Air Defence Regiment. Hailing from Rahya village in Jammu, Colonel Jamwal’s commissioning took place at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai on March 18, 2006.
Throughout her distinguished career, Colonel Jamwal has not only served as an instructor but also made significant contributions as a UN Military Observer. Her recent role at the Army Headquarters paved the way for her current leadership position at the forefront of the Air Defence Regiment.
Colonel Jamwal’s journey to this groundbreaking command was supported and celebrated by her family, particularly her father, Bir Singh Jamwal. Despite initial aspirations for her to pursue a career in education, her family embraced her ambitions to carve a unique path in the military. “Initially we wanted her to become a teacher, but she wanted to do something different. I decided to support her,” her father recounted, sharing memories of training runs at Govt Gandhi Memorial Science College in Jammu.
Her father expressed immense pride during the ceremony when Colonel Jamwal officially took over the regiment’s command, marking her as the first woman to hold such a position. “We are happy that our daughter will command an Air Defence Regiment and she has become the first woman officer to do so,” he said.
Colonel Jamwal’s achievements not only elevate her career but also push the boundaries of women empowerment within the armed forces, inspiring future generations of women to aspire for leadership roles in traditionally male-dominated spheres.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), along with Mrs. Sunita Dwivedi, President of the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA), met with the recipients of the Distinguished Service Awards and their families.
This interaction followed the Defence Investiture Ceremony-2024 (Phase-2) held on July 19, 2024, at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, where the awardees were honored by the President of India.
During the meeting, General Dwivedi felicitated the awardees, acknowledging their exemplary contributions to the nation and their respective organizations.
He expressed his appreciation for their dedication and the significant impact of their service on both national security and community welfare.
This event highlighted the crucial role that recognition plays in motivating personnel and reinforcing the values of commitment and excellence within the armed forces.
The COAS’s interaction with the awardees and their families underscored the supportive community that thrives within the military, celebrating the achievements of its members in a distinguished manner.
In commemoration of the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Battle Axe Division conducted a grand Weapons and Equipment Display in Jaisalmer. The event showcased the valor and might of the Indian Army, drawing more than 500 school children and National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets.
The display included a range of military hardware, providing a hands-on experience that highlighted the strength and capabilities of the armed forces.
This event served as an educational and motivational experience for the attendees, especially the young students and cadets, inspiring them with tales of bravery and the importance of national defense.
The exhibition not only honored the heroes of the Kargil War but also aimed to foster a sense of pride and patriotism among the younger generation.
The presence of such a significant number of school children and cadets underscored the event’s success in engaging and educating the future leaders about the critical role of the military in national security.
As part of its ongoing transformation initiatives, the Golden Katar Division organized a specialized drone handling training capsule in Jamnagar. This exercise aimed to enhance the participants’ understanding of drone technology and its multifarious applications in modern military operations.
The training session provided comprehensive insights into the functionality of drones, emphasizing their strategic utility on today’s battlefield.
Participants, including both seasoned personnel and new recruits, learned about the deployment, control, and maintenance of drones, as well as tactics for integrating these aerial devices into various military scenarios.
This initiative reflects the Indian Army’s commitment to incorporating advanced technologies to enhance operational capabilities and battlefield awareness.
The use of drones represents a significant shift towards modernizing and adapting to new forms of warfare, ensuring that the forces remain well-prepared to tackle contemporary challenges efficiently.
A specialized team of 30 Force One Commandos from the Maharashtra State Police Force recently completed training at the College of Military Engineering (CME) in Pune. The training focused on advanced bomb disposal techniques, handling of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and the use of jammers.
This visit underscores a significant step in enhancing collaboration between state police forces and military engineering units. The training aimed to share expertise and best practices, thereby fostering mutual cooperation.
Such initiatives are crucial for strengthening interoperability and innovation between different security agencies.
The partnership highlights a proactive approach to security, preparing both military and police units with the necessary skills to effectively manage and neutralize potential threats from explosive devices.
This collaboration not only enhances the capabilities of Force One Commandos but also contributes to the broader goal of maintaining public safety and security.
