Lt Gen RC Tiwari, the Army Commander of Eastern Command, visited INS Khanjar on July 16, 2024, where he interacted with the crew and commended them for their professionalism and high state of readiness.
During his visit, Lt Gen Tiwari praised the crew for maintaining exceptional operational standards despite facing challenging situations and adverse weather conditions.
The visit highlights the inter-service cooperation and mutual support between the Indian Army and the Navy, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a high state of readiness across all branches of the Indian Armed Forces.
Lt Gen Tiwari’s engagement with the naval crew underscores the dedication and skill that the personnel of INS Khanjar bring to their roles, ensuring that they are always prepared to defend national interests at sea.
This interaction also serves as an acknowledgment of the crucial role played by naval forces in securing India’s maritime borders and strengthening the overall defense capabilities of the nation.
The Corps Commander of Vajra Corps recently visited the Golden Arrow Division as part of the ongoing efforts to ensure readiness and effective operational performance. During the visit, he praised all ranks for their dedication and preparedness in executing synergized actions to meet operational objectives.
This visit underscores the importance of maintaining high standards of operational readiness within the division, known for its critical role as one of the Defenders of Punjab.
The Corps Commander emphasized the necessity for continuous improvement and readiness to effectively respond to any challenges that may arise.
The Golden Arrow Division’s commitment to excellence and preparedness in fulfilling its strategic roles within the Indian Army was highlighted as a model of effective military readiness and collaboration.
This visit forms part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing the capabilities and performance of units across the Indian Army.
Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, the Army Commander of Western Command, recently conducted a review of the operational preparedness of the Pine Division, also known as the 9th Infantry Division of the Indian Army. During his visit, he commended all ranks for their professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty.
The Pine Division boasts a storied history, having been originally formed on September 15, 1940, in Quetta, which is now part of Pakistan. As a unit of the British Indian Army, it played a significant role in World War II, particularly in the Malaya Campaign against Japanese forces.
Although it was demobilized post-war, the division was re-raised on August 1, 1964, in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, by Lt. Gen. PS Bhagat. It transitioned to an infantry division in 1970 and has since maintained a legacy of excellence and resilience.
Lieutenant General Katiyar’s review underscores the ongoing importance of the Pine Division in maintaining national security and readiness in response to contemporary challenges.
His acknowledgment of the division’s capabilities and historical significance highlights the critical role it continues to play within India’s defense framework.
Lt Gen K S Brar, AVSM, General Officer Commanding of the Dakshin Bharat Area, attended Design Dapple 24 as the chief guest. This event, organized by the Army Institute of Fashion and Design in Bangalore, showcased the outstanding creative designs of its students.
During the event, Lt Gen Brar felicitated the winners, acknowledging their hard work and the high level of creativity displayed in their projects.
He commended the institute for fostering such a dynamic and innovative environment that encourages students to push the boundaries of fashion and design.
Addressing the students, Lt Gen Brar emphasized the importance of staying focused and committed to their craft. He highlighted the value of hard work and dedication as essential components for success in the competitive field of fashion and design.
The event not only celebrated the achievements of the students but also reinforced the Army’s support for educational initiatives that broaden the skills and opportunities available to the military community.
Retiring military personnel from the Madras Engineers Group & Centre (MEG) in Bengaluru participated in a five-day Entrepreneurship Development Program designed to equip them with the skills needed for a successful transition to civilian life.
The program was curated by Maj Gen Indrabalan (retired) and conducted by Hand in Hand Academy for Social Entrepreneurship, in collaboration with Jyoti Incubation Lab and the Atal Innovation Mission.
Maj Gen VT Mathew, General Officer Commanding of the K&K Sub Area, also participated, engaging with attendees and offering insights into the entrepreneurial journey.
The program covered various aspects of entrepreneurship, including business planning, financial management, and market analysis, aiming to empower veterans with the knowledge and tools required to start and sustain their own businesses.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to support the empowerment of veterans, helping them to leverage their skills and experiences in new, civilian roles.
By providing such training, the Indian Army not only aids in the professional development of its retiring personnel but also contributes to the broader economic development by fostering new enterprises.
General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, presented the Kargil Honours awards to veterans and Veer Naris in recognition of their valor and sacrifices during the Kargil War. The awards ceremony was part of a commemorative event marking the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas.
In his keynote address, General Chauhan lauded the Indian Defence Industry for its role in supporting the national effort during the conflict. He emphasized that the Kargil War has become a symbol of the resoluteness, selflessness, fierce courage, and determination of the Indian Armed Forces.
General Chauhan also addressed the evolving nature of security threats, highlighting the imperative need for the Indian Armed Forces to be prepared for multi-domain and multi-spectrum challenges. His remarks underscored the ongoing importance of modernization and readiness in facing both military and non-military security challenges in the future.
The event served not only as a remembrance of the sacrifices made during the Kargil War but also as a reaffirmation of the Indian Armed Forces’ commitment to maintaining national security in an increasingly complex global landscape.
Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff, initiated the Indian Navy’s significant environmental campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” with a dedicated plantation drive. This initiative, titled “Plant4Mother,” reflects the Navy’s commitment to environmental conservation, the promotion of green practices, and the fight against climate change.
The campaign, which involves planting trees in honor of mothers, symbolizes the Navy’s pledge to contribute positively to the ecosystem and emphasizes the nurturing role of mothers in life and nature.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance sustainability and environmental responsibility within the defense sector.
The “Plant4Mother” drive not only aims to enrich the environment but also seeks to inspire a culture of ecological awareness and action among naval personnel and the wider community.
Through this campaign, the Indian Navy underscores its role in leading by example in environmental stewardship.
Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff, joined the centenary celebrations of Commander V Sriramulu (Retd), an esteemed Indian Navy veteran, via video conference on July 18 in Visakhapatnam. The event marked the 100-year milestone of Cdr Sriramulu, who served the Navy for 35 years and is an acclaimed sportsman.
Cdr Sriramulu has an impressive athletic record, having won over 50 medals in national and international events, including 6 gold and 3 silver medals at the World Masters Athletics Championships. Remarkably, he began his athletic career in his late 60s, demonstrating extraordinary dedication and vigor.
Admiral Tripathi congratulated Cdr Sriramulu on behalf of the entire Naval fraternity, acknowledging his awe-inspiring journey and contributions to the Navy and sports. The CNS also conveyed best wishes for Cdr Sriramulu’s upcoming participation in the World Masters Athletics Championship in Gothenburg, Sweden.
The Indian Navy salutes the indomitable spirit of its veterans and their invaluable contributions to India, exemplified by the remarkable life and achievements of Cdr V Sriramulu.
In a remarkable journey that bridges the realms of governance and defense, Bhavya Narasimhamurthy has become a symbol of determination and pride for many across India. As the first female Territorial Army (TA) officer commissioned from South India, Lieutenant Narasimhamurthy’s story is not just about personal achievement but also about breaking barriers and setting new precedents.
Bhavya Narasimhamurthy, whose roots are deeply embedded in political soil, has recently embraced a bold new role as a commissioned officer in the Indian Army’s Territorial Army. This transition marks a significant milestone in her career, highlighting her dual commitment to serving the nation both as a politician and as an army officer.
In 2022, Lieutenant Narasimhamurthy distinguished herself by being the only woman to be selected through the rigorous examination process conducted by the Directorate General of Territorial Army. This achievement alone speaks volumes about her dedication and resilience.
Following her selection, she was posted in May 2024 to an Army unit stationed near the Indo-Pak Line of Control (LOC). Here, she underwent training and was commissioned as a Lieutenant, ready to undertake the responsibilities that come with her rank and position.
The Territorial Army in India offers a unique avenue for civilians who aspire to contribute to national defense while continuing their civilian professions. It’s a part of the Indian Army that enables citizens to don military uniforms and serve the nation in times of need without forsaking their regular careers.
Lieutenant Narasimhamurthy joins the ranks of other prominent personalities in the TA, such as cricketer MS Dhoni, former Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Sachin Pilot, and former Cabinet Minister, Anurag Thakur. These individuals have shown that one can excel in their professional fields while also committing to the defense of the country.
Looking ahead, Lieutenant Narasimhamurthy is set to continue her service in both her political role and military capacity. Her story is an inspiring testament to the power of dedication and the impact of serving one’s country through multiple avenues. As she dons her military uniform, she carries with her the aspirations and pride of countless Indians, especially women, who see in her a pathbreaker and a role model.
Lieutenant Bhavya Narasimhamurthy’s journey from politician to Territorial Army officer is a vivid illustration of how diverse experiences and roles can contribute to a richer, more effective service to the nation. Her story is not just one of personal success but also a beacon of national pride and an example of the multifaceted ways in which one can serve their country.
The Indian Army, the esteemed guardian of our nation’s security, has recently unveiled an exceptional opportunity for engineering graduates to join its ranks as commissioned officers. The SSC Tech 64 and SSCW Tech 35 recruitment notifications have generated a surge of enthusiasm among aspiring candidates, offering a chance to embark on a remarkable journey of service and personal growth.
SSC Tech 64 and SSCW Tech 35 Notification
The Indian Army has announced the opening of applications for the 64th Short Service Commission (SSC) Technical Entry for men and the 35th SSC Technical Entry for women. This prestigious program aims to induct talented engineering graduates into the officer cadre, allowing them to contribute their expertise and skills to the defense of our nation.
To be eligible for the SSC Tech 64 and SSCW Tech 35 recruitment, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Nationality
Applicants must be either:
A citizen of India
A subject of Nepal
A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and East African countries with the intention of permanently settling in India
Age Limit
Category
Age Requirement
Eligibility Date Range
SSC Tech 64 (Men) and SSCW Tech 35 (Women)
20 to 27 years as on 01 Apr 2025
Born between 02 Apr 1998 and 01 Apr 2005
Widows of Indian Armed Forces Defense Personnel
Maximum age limit is 35 years as of 01 Apr 2024
–
Educational Qualification
SSC Tech 64 (Men) and SSCW Tech 35 (Women): Candidates must have completed or be in the final year of an engineering degree program.
Widows of Defense Personnel (SSCW Non-Tech): Graduation in any discipline.
Vacancy Details: Opportunities Abound
The Indian Army has released a total of 381 vacancies for the SSC Tech 64 and SSCW Tech 35 recruitment. The breakdown of these vacancies is as follows:
S.No.
Core Engineering Stream
Vacancies for SSC(T)-64 (Men)
Vacancies for SSCW(T)-35 (Women)
1
Civil
75
07
2
Computer Science
60
04
3
Electrical
33
03
4
Electronics
64
06
5
Mechanical
101
09
6
Miscellaneous
17
–
Category
Number of Vacancies
SSC Tech 64 (Men)
350
SSCW Tech 35 (Women)
29
Widows of Defense Personnel (SSCW Tech and Non-Tech)
2
Applying for the SSC Tech 64 and SSCW Tech 35 Recruitment
The application process for the SSC Tech 64 and SSCW Tech 35 recruitment has been designed to be seamless and user-friendly. Aspiring candidates can follow these steps to submit their applications:
Visit the official website of the Indian Army at joinindianarmy.nic.in.
Click on the “Officer Entry Apply/Login” option and then select “Registration” (if not already registered).
Read the instructions carefully and fill out the registration form.
Once registered, click on the “Apply Online” option under the Dashboard.
Select the “Short Service Commission SSC(Tech)(Men and Women) Course” and click “Apply”.
Fill out the application form with the required personal and communication details, ensuring accuracy.
Review the summary of your information, make any necessary edits, and click “Submit Now” to complete the application process.
Key Dates to Remember
The Indian Army has set the following important dates for the SSC Tech 64 and SSCW Tech 35 recruitment:
Application Start Date: July 16, 2024
Application End Date: August 14, 2024
Admit Card Release Date: To be updated
Result Announcement Date: To be updated
Candidates are advised to keep a close eye on the official website and stay informed about any updates or changes to the recruitment timeline.
Selection Process: Navigating the Path to Success
The selection process for the SSC Tech 64 and SSCW Tech 35 recruitment is designed to identify the most deserving and capable candidates. The process consists of the following stages:
Shortlisting: The Indian Army will review the applications and set a minimum cut-off score for each engineering discipline based on the candidates’ academic performance. Only those who meet the cut-off will be shortlisted for the next stage.
SSB Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a two-stage interview process at the designated Selection Centre. The interview will involve tests by psychologists, group activities, and individual interviews.
Medical Examination: Candidates recommended by the interview board will undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure they meet the required physical and mental fitness standards.
Final Merit: Candidates who successfully clear the interview and medical examination will be considered for selection and offered a training position based on their rank and the available vacancies.
Training and Commission
Successful candidates selected for the SSC Tech 64 and SSCW Tech 35 recruitment will undergo a comprehensive 49-week training program at Pre-Commissioning Training Academy(PCTA) most likely Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Gaya.
(a) Training Assignment: Selected candidates will undergo training at the Officers Training Academy based on their ranking in the final merit list (by engineering stream) up to the number of vacancies available, provided they meet all eligibility requirements.
(b) Training Duration: The training will last for 49 weeks.
(c) Marital Status and Accommodation: During the training period, candidates are not permitted to marry nor live with parents/guardians. They must remain unmarried until the completion of their training. Any candidate who marries during training will be dismissed and must reimburse the government for all expenses incurred during their training. This rule also applies to widows of Defence Personnel. Candidates who marry after applying, even if they pass the Service Selection Board interview and medical examination, will not be admitted for training and their candidacy will be revoked.
(d) Training Expenses: The government covers all costs associated with the training at PCTA. Candidates who complete the Pre-Commission training will receive a Post Graduate Diploma in Defence Management and Strategic Studies.
(e) Commission Suitability: If an officer is deemed unsuitable to retain their commission within six months of confirmation, their commission may be terminated at any time.
(f) Service Obligation: Officers are granted a Short Service Commission in any Arm/Service and may be assigned anywhere in the world as determined by the Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army).
(g) Tenure of Service: Officers are obligated to serve for ten years, which may be extended by an additional four years if they choose to continue and are deemed eligible and suitable. Those seeking a Permanent Commission (PC) will be considered in their 10th year of service. Officers not granted a PC may opt for an extension.
(h) Training Costs: The full cost of training at PCTA is funded by the government. However, if a cadet withdraws from the academy for personal reasons (excluding medical or uncontrollable circumstances), they must pay a fee of ₹16,260 per week (as of 2023), subject to adjustments over time. This fee covers the period of the cadet’s stay at the Officers Training Academy or Cadet Training Wing.
Ante Date Seniority and Confirmation of Commission
Upon successful completion of the pre-commission training at OTA, the officers will be confirmed in the rank of Lieutenant under the Short Service Commission (Technical) scheme. Additionally, engineering graduates of the SSC (Technical) entry will be granted one-year ante date seniority from the commissioning date.
However, it is important to note that widows of Defense Personnel selected for the SSCW (Non-Tech) entry will not be entitled to any ante date seniority, despite being commissioned in the rank of Lieutenant.
Salary and Benefits: Reaping the Rewards of Service
The Indian Army offers a competitive salary and benefits package for its officers, including those selected through the SSC Tech 64 and SSCW Tech 35 recruitment. The salary structure varies based on the rank and level, providing a clear understanding of the remuneration associated with each position.
Rank
Level
Pay
Lieutenant
Level-10
₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500
Captain
Level-10B
₹61,300 – ₹1,93,900
Major
Level-11
₹69,400 – ₹2,07,200
Lieutenant Colonel
Level-12A
₹1,21,200 – ₹2,12,400
Colonel
Level-13
₹1,30,600 – ₹2,15,900
Brigadier
Level-13A
₹1,39,600 – ₹2,17,600
Major General
Level-14
₹1,44,200 – ₹2,18,200
Lieutenant General HAG Scale
Level-15
₹1,82,200 – ₹2,24,100
Lieutenant General HAG+ Scale
Level-16
₹2,05,400 – ₹2,24,400
VCOAS/Army Cdr/Lieutenant General (NFSG)
Level-17
₹2,25,000/- (fixed)
COAS
Level-18
₹2,50,000/- (fixed)
In addition to the competitive salary, officers in the Indian Army enjoy a range of benefits, including subsidized accommodation, healthcare, and various allowances. The opportunity to serve the nation and contribute to its security is a source of immense pride and satisfaction for those who choose this noble path.
The Indian Army’s SSC Tech 64 and SSCW Tech 35 recruitment offers a remarkable opportunity for engineering graduates to embark on a journey of service, personal growth, and national contribution. By meeting the rigorous eligibility criteria and navigating the selection process, aspiring candidates can unlock a path to become commissioned officers, serving the country with honor and distinction.
The Indian Army’s commitment to providing a comprehensive education, competitive remuneration, and a fulfilling career path makes this recruitment a highly sought-after option for those seeking to make a difference in the defense of our nation. Candidates are encouraged to stay informed, prepare diligently, and seize this chance to become a part of the esteemed Indian Army officer cadre.
