In a landmark initiative aimed at empowering female shooters, the Army Girls Sports Company (AGSC) for the shooting discipline was officially inaugurated today at the Army Marksmanship Unit (AMU) in Mhow.

This significant event marks the commencement of a dedicated program designed to nurture and develop the talents of young female shooters within the military framework. The first batch of 11 Girl Sports Cadets, who will undergo rigorous training and development, was introduced during the ceremony.

The inauguration ceremony was a grand affair, attended by numerous distinguished guests and dignitaries from the world of shooting sports.

Lt Gen Gajendra Joshi, Commandant of the Infantry School, graced the occasion as the chief guest. His presence underscored the importance of this initiative in the broader context of the Army’s commitment to promoting sports and gender equality.

Olympian and acclaimed shooter Smt Anjali Bhagwat, who has been a beacon of inspiration for many aspiring athletes, was also in attendance.

As a recipient of the prestigious Khel Ratna and Arjuna Award, her participation added a touch of inspiration and aspiration for the young cadets. Smt Bhagwat’s illustrious career and her dedication to the sport were highlighted as exemplary models for the new entrants.

The event was further honored by the presence of Shri Kunwar Sultan Singh, Secretary General of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI).

His support and endorsement of the AGSC program highlighted the collaborative effort between the Indian Army and national sports bodies to foster talent at the grassroots level. His speech emphasized the importance of such initiatives in building a strong foundation for future champions.

Several other notable figures from the shooting sport community, including senior officers and men of the Indian Army, also attended the ceremony. Their participation reflected the widespread support for this pioneering initiative.

The first batch of 11 Girl Sports Cadets, selected from various parts of the country, will undergo an extensive training program at the AMU. The training will cover all aspects of marksmanship, including technical skills, mental conditioning, and physical fitness. The comprehensive program is designed to equip these cadets with the skills and mindset required to compete at the highest levels.

This initiative promises to be a game-changer in the landscape of Indian shooting sports. By providing a structured and supportive environment, the AGSC aims to inspire and empower the next generation of female shooters. The program not only focuses on producing elite athletes but also on developing leadership qualities and a sense of discipline among the cadets.

As the ceremony concluded, the excitement and enthusiasm among the participants and attendees were palpable.

The launch of the AGSC for shooting discipline marks a significant step towards gender inclusivity in sports and reflects the Indian Army’s progressive approach to nurturing talent. With the support of the NRAI and the inspirational presence of icons like Smt Anjali Bhagwat, the future of female shooters in India looks exceedingly bright.

The Army Girls Sports Company at the Army Marksmanship Unit in Mhow is set to become a beacon of excellence, empowering young women to achieve their dreams and bringing glory to the nation through the sport of shooting.

The 7th edition of the Joint Military Exercise ‘Shakti’ between India and France concluded on May 26 at the Foreign Training Node in Umroi, Meghalaya. The closing ceremony featured a final validation exercise observed by a Tri-Service delegation group from both nations, marking the end of the event held from May 13 to May 26, 2024.

Distinguished guests, including the French Ambassador to India, H.E. Thierry Mathou, and Major General Prasanna Sudhakar Joshi, General Officer Commanding 51 Sub Area, attended the opening ceremony of Exercise ‘Shakti’. This biennial event alternates between India and France, with the last edition conducted in France in November 2021.

The Indian contingent, primarily composed of 90 personnel from the RAJPUT Regiment along with observers from the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force, participated alongside 90 personnel from the 13th Foreign Legion Half-Brigade (13th DBLE) of France.

Exercise ‘Shakti’ focused on enhancing joint military capabilities for multi-domain operations in sub-conventional scenarios under Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate. The training concentrated on operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrain, emphasizing physical fitness, tactical drill refinement, and the sharing of best practices.

The tactical drills covered a variety of scenarios, including responses to terrorist actions, the establishment of command posts and intelligence centers, securing helipads, conducting small team operations, executing special heliborne operations, and utilizing drones.

Exercise ‘Shakti’ serves as a critical platform for the exchange of tactics, techniques, and procedures, fostering interoperability and camaraderie between the armed forces of India and France. This collaboration not only strengthens defense cooperation but also reinforces the bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved a one-month extension for the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Manoj C. Pande, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC.

Initially set to retire on May 31, 2024, General Pande will now continue in his role until June 30, 2024. This extension is granted under Rule 16 A (4) of the Army Rules 1954.

General Pande assumed the position of COAS on April 30, 2022, succeeding in a prestigious military career that began in December 1982 when he was commissioned into the Corps of Engineers (The Bombay Sappers). Prior to his appointment as COAS, General Pande served as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff.

This extension allows General Pande to continue his leadership at a crucial time for the Indian Army, ensuring stability and continuity in its operations and strategic initiatives.

In a significant technological advancement, the Sapt Shakti Command has initiated a project that enables remote stations to access medical consultations from specialists and super specialists.

This innovative approach harnesses the power of existing high-speed broadband connectivity, allowing for real-time transmission of CT scans and other medical documents from distant locations.

The primary outcome of this initiative is the ability to obtain specialist opinions remotely, which is particularly beneficial for critical cases where time is of the essence.

By minimizing the need for patients and their attendants to travel long distances, this initiative is expected to be a boon for those in remote areas, ensuring timely and efficient medical care.

This development underscores the potential of technology to bridge the gap in healthcare services, providing critical support to underserved regions and enhancing overall medical capacities.

In a display of exemplary military collaboration and prowess, the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a Special Heliborne Operation with French troops as part of the ongoing India-France joint Exercise Shakti 24.

The operation, executed using Mi-17 helicopters, took place at the Umroi military base in Meghalaya, highlighting the high standards of precision, synergy, and professionalism that define the military cooperation between India and France.

Exercise Shakti 24, a biennial exercise, represents the strong strategic partnership and defense cooperation between India and France.

This iteration of the exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability and understanding between the armed forces of the two nations through joint training and operations.

The Special Heliborne Operation, a key highlight of the exercise, involved the seamless integration of Indian and French troops.

Utilizing the versatile Mi-17 helicopters of the IAF, the operation demonstrated the ability of both forces to execute complex missions with precision and coordination. The Mi-17, known for its robust performance and reliability, played a crucial role in the success of this operation.

The operation began with meticulous planning and coordination between Indian and French military personnel. Detailed briefings and rehearsals ensured that every aspect of the mission was thoroughly covered. The objective was to simulate a real-world scenario requiring rapid deployment and extraction of troops in a hostile environment.

As the Mi-17 helicopters took to the skies, carrying Indian and French commandos, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and readiness.

The helicopters maneuvered skillfully through the challenging terrain of Umroi, showcasing the pilots’ expertise and the aircraft’s capabilities. Upon reaching the designated drop zone, the troops swiftly disembarked and established a secure perimeter, demonstrating their agility and tactical proficiency.

The joint operation emphasized the importance of interoperability between the Indian and French forces. Through shared training and operational experiences, both contingents have developed a deeper understanding of each other’s tactics, techniques, and procedures.

This mutual knowledge is crucial for effective joint operations, whether in peacekeeping missions, humanitarian assistance, or combat scenarios.

The professionalism exhibited by the troops was evident in every phase of the operation. From the precise coordination between ground and air units to the flawless execution of the mission objectives, the exercise highlighted the high standards maintained by both military forces.

The success of the operation also underscored the importance of rigorous training and the continuous pursuit of excellence.

The Special Heliborne Operation at Umroi stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through collaborative efforts and shared goals.

It serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and coordination in achieving mission success and maintaining global peace and security.

In conclusion, the India-France joint Exercise Shakti 24 has already achieved significant milestones, with the Special Heliborne Operation marking a key highlight.

The professionalism, precision, and synergy displayed by the Indian Army, IAF, and French troops underscore the strength of their partnership and their readiness to meet the challenges of the future together.