In a formal ceremony at the corps headquarters in Ambala, Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar has assumed command of the Kharga Corps, taking over from Lt Gen Rahul R Singh. The transition marks a new chapter for one of the Indian Army’s key strike formations.

Upon assuming command, Lt Gen Pushkar visited the Vijay Smarak to pay homage to the fallen heroes of the corps, reiterating his commitment to the valorous legacy of the Kharga Corps. He encouraged all personnel to uphold their pursuit of professional excellence with renewed zeal and fervour.

The Kharga Corps, a critical component of India’s defense strategy, was established on October 7, 1971, by Lt Gen T N Raina in Krishna Nagar, West Bengal. It played a pivotal role in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 just two months after its formation, capturing strategic towns like Khulna, Jessore, Jhenida, Magura, and Faridpur.

Originally positioned in the Eastern Theatre, the corps was relocated to the Western Theatre post-war, first to Chandimandir Cantonment and then to its current location in Ambala in January 1985. Today, the Kharga Corps boasts significant components of the Indian Army’s offensive capabilities, including 1 Armoured Division, 14 Infantry Division (RAPID), 22 Infantry Division, 40 Artillery Division, and several other independent brigades. With about 50% of the Army’s offensive capacity, the corps is primed for rapid deployment and operations in times of conflict.

In a significant leadership transition within the Indian Army, Lt Gen Ajay Chandpuria has officially taken over as the commander of the prestigious Vajra Corps, succeeding Lt Gen Vijay B Nair. The handover ceremony took place at the corps headquarters in Jalandhar, Punjab, which is a vital part of the Army’s Western Command.

During the ceremony, Lt Gen Chandpuria paid his respects to fallen heroes at the Vajra Shaurya Sthal, laying a wreath to honor the memory of the bravehearts who have served and sacrificed for the nation.

Emphasizing the legacy of valor and dedication, he called upon all ranks to uphold a high level of operational readiness and to actively contribute to the corps’ enduring commitment to national ideals and nation-building.

The Vajra Corps, with a storied history of valour since its inception on March 1, 1950, stands as the first corps to be established by the Indian Army post-independence.

Originally tasked with overseeing military formations in Punjab in the wake of partition and subsequent threats from Pakistan, the corps was initially based in Ambala before moving to Jalandhar in 1951.

Renowned for its distinguished combat history, particularly during the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pakistan wars, the Vajra Corps has been decorated with 25 Battle Honours, 4 Honour Titles, and 38 Theatre Honours, reflecting its pivotal role in the defense and security of India.

In a significant transition of leadership, General Upendra Dwivedi was honored with a Guard of Honour at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday morning, marking the beginning of his tenure as the 30th Chief of the Army Staff (COAS). Gen Dwivedi took over the reins on Sunday, succeeding Gen. Manoj C. Pande, PVSM, AVSM, VSM.

The ceremony was not just a display of military tradition but also showcased personal moments as Gen Dwivedi was seen paying respects by touching the feet of his brother and other relatives, a gesture reflecting his deep-rooted values.

Before the official proceedings, Gen Dwivedi met with various religious leaders, underscoring the inclusive spirit and the broad base of support for the Indian Army.

Addressing the media, Gen Dwivedi expressed immense pride in leading the Indian Army, which he described as an institution built on the sacrifices and contributions of its jawans. He paid homage to the soldiers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, reiterating the Army’s commitment to honor their legacy.

Underlining the evolving global security dynamics, Gen Dwivedi pointed out the need for the Army to adapt to new-age warfare, emphasizing the importance of modernizing arms and enhancing strategic systems. He stressed the goal of achieving ‘atmanirbharta’ or self-sufficiency, through encouraging indigenous initiatives and incorporating local war systems and equipment.

“It will be my effort that with the synergy between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with other stakeholders, we will be always prepared for operations under the full spectrum of conflict,” Gen Dwivedi affirmed.

He reassured the nation of the Indian Army’s preparedness and capability to face all challenges. After his interaction with the press, Gen Dwivedi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, paying his respects to the martyred soldiers.

His appointment, announced by the Ministry of Defence on June 11, is historically significant as he is the first officer from the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles (JAKRIF) to ascend to this position. The JAKRIF has a proud lineage tracing back to the former royal house of the Dogra rulers of Jammu and Kashmir. With a distinguished 40-year career that includes various command, staff, instructional, and foreign postings, Gen Dwivedi takes command of the 1.3 million-strong Army during a period marked by considerable security challenges, especially along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

In a solemn and ceremonial farewell, General Manoj Pande was honored with a Guard of Honour at the South Block Lawns in New Delhi as he stepped down from his position as the Chief of the Army Staff.

General Pande, whose career spans over four decades, is celebrated for his exceptional service and inspirational leadership which has significantly influenced the Indian Army.

During his tenure, General Pande demonstrated unwavering dedication to his duties and made a profound impact on military leadership and strategic operations.

His commitment was further highlighted in a poignant moment when he laid a wreath at the National War Memorial to pay respects to the fallen heroes of the nation, acknowledging their ultimate sacrifices.

The ceremony also marked a significant transition in the military hierarchy, with General Upendra Dwivedi assuming the role of the new Chief of the Army Staff.

This leadership handover ensures the continuity and unyielding spirit of the Indian Army as it faces future challenges.

General Pande’s retirement was attended by various high-ranking officials and dignitaries, who lauded his illustrious career and substantial contributions to the nation’s security and military prowess. His legacy is expected to inspire future generations of military leadership in India.

A specialized financial management training session was recently conducted at the Armed Forces Medical College & Centre in Lucknow for 42 senior medical officers from the Tri-Services. The training was facilitated by the esteemed Faculty of Resource Management at the College of Defence Management, Integrated Defence Staff.

The capsule covered a comprehensive curriculum focusing on several critical aspects of financial management within the defense sector. Topics included the Economics of Defence, the Government Financial System, and Budget Management.

There was a special emphasis on Delegated Financial Powers, with detailed discussions on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), highlighting its strategic importance in defense procurement and financial activities.

This training is part of an ongoing effort to enhance the financial acumen of senior medical officers in the armed forces, ensuring they are well-versed in managing budgets efficiently and understanding the economic implications of their decisions.

The session aimed at empowering these officers with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of financial operations within the military’s medical departments, contributing to more effective and efficient service delivery.

In a commendable acknowledgment of sporting excellence, General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has extended his congratulations to Hony Captain Jitu Rai for his exemplary service as a sportsperson in the Indian Army.

A distinguished member of the Army Marksman Unit, Jitu Rai has represented India with distinction in numerous international events, including the Rio Olympics.

Jitu Rai’s stellar career is highlighted by his exceptional achievements in pistol shooting, particularly in the 50m Air Pistol category.

He clinched a gold medal at the 2014 Asian Games and followed it with remarkable performances at the Commonwealth Games, securing gold in both the 2014 and 2018 editions.

The CDS’s commendation serves as a recognition of Jitu Rai’s dedication and hard work, which have not only brought laurels to the nation but have also significantly contributed to promoting sports within the military.

His journey from the Army Marksman Unit to the global stage exemplifies the opportunities that the Indian Army provides to its personnel in pursuing excellence in various fields, including sports.