A series of powerful explosions were reported near the Olenya Air Base in Russia’s Murmansk region on Sunday, raising fresh concerns amid ongoing regional tensions. Local media and social media users reported at least 10 blasts, followed by a fire and a rising plume of smoke clearly visible from surrounding areas.
Footage circulated on social media platform X showed dense smoke billowing into the sky from what is believed to be the vicinity of the air base. The cause of the explosions remains unclear, and Russian authorities have yet to issue an official statement.
The Olenya Air Base, located on Russia’s Kola Peninsula, serves as a critical hub for launching long-range missile strikes against Ukraine. It has been linked to recent attacks on civilian infrastructure, including a deadly cruise missile strike on a children’s hospital in Kyiv. The base’s strategic location, near NATO members Finland and Norway, also underscores its geopolitical importance and raises concerns about broader regional implications.
The attack, carried out in the early hours of Sunday, is said to have targeted key aircraft including at least four Tu-95MS bombers, with unverified sources suggesting that up to 40 aircraft, including Tu-22M3s, may have been affected.
The development comes just weeks after a United Nations report, published in May 2025, confirmed that Russian drone attacks on civilians in Ukraine’s Kherson Province constituted crimes against humanity. In response, Ukraine has intensified its counteroffensive strategy, increasingly relying on drones to neutralize key elements of Russia’s military infrastructure.
No immediate reports of casualties or damage to infrastructure have been confirmed, though unverified sources suggest emergency crews have been deployed to the site.
The incident comes amid heightened military alertness across the region, and observers are closely watching for further developments as speculation mounts over whether the explosions were accidental, the result of sabotage, or a targeted strike.
In a landmark event symbolizing the growing strategic partnership between India and the European Union, two European naval ships—ESPS Reina Sofia from Spain and ITS Antonio Marceglia from Italy—concluded their operational turnaround in Mumbai today. The week-long visit, from May 26 to June 1, was conducted under the banner of the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR), marking the first such deployment to India and underscoring the EU’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region.
The ships, commanded respectively by Commander Salvador Moreno Regil and Commander Alberto Bartolomeo, are part of Operation Atalanta, the EU’s long-running maritime security initiative focused on counter-piracy and safe navigation. Their presence in Mumbai follows high-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen earlier this year, where both sides agreed to expand defense and maritime cooperation. During the February 2025 meeting, von der Leyen described India as “a pillar of certainty in an increasingly uncertain world,” emphasizing the EU’s intention to deepen strategic ties with India.
The port visit featured ceremonial events, cultural exchanges, and professional interactions between the Indian Navy and visiting European personnel. Images from the engagements depicted a strong sense of camaraderie, with Indian and European officers standing side by side on ship decks, their national flags and the EU emblem displayed prominently. Another highlight was a traditional indoor gathering around a ship’s wheel, where portraits of naval leaders and maritime symbols reflected the shared heritage of naval professionalism.
This naval visit forms part of India’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy, which aims to secure maritime lanes, counter illicit activities, and strengthen regional partnerships amid growing Chinese influence. A March 2025 report by Modern Diplomacy noted India’s strategic shift toward light carrier groups (LCAGs) and an emphasis on maritime domain awareness. The EU’s formal participation in India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, discussed during the Modi–von der Leyen summit, aligns with these objectives and is seen as a step toward deeper regional integration.
The visit to Mumbai also builds on a wider pattern of global maritime collaboration. ITS Antonio Marceglia had earlier taken part in the Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo (MNEK) in Bali in February 2025, where navies from 38 countries, including India, participated in joint drills and humanitarian missions, ranging from beach cleanups to mangrove planting. Such exercises reflect the increasing role of naval forces in not just security, but also environmental stewardship and regional stability.
Looking ahead, the successful conclusion of this visit paves the way for expanded India-EU maritime cooperation. Potential initiatives include joint naval exercises, coordinated patrols in key sea lanes, and collaborative frameworks for information sharing. These efforts could significantly contribute to a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, as highlighted by a 2024 report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) on U.S.-India maritime security coordination.
With India and the EU also targeting the conclusion of a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement by the end of 2025, the maritime domain is poised to become a central pillar of their strategic relationship. The shared commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific underscores the geopolitical importance of such naval engagements, setting a strong precedent for future collaboration.
Air Marshal Jasvir Singh Mann has officially assumed the position of Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) of the Western Air Command, Indian Air Force (IAF), a critical post within one of India’s most strategically important air commands. The appointment was announced by the Ministry of Defence earlier today.
The Western Air Command, established in 1963 and headquartered in New Delhi, is responsible for conducting air operations across India’s northern and western frontiers. This includes regions like Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir, which have remained central to India’s defence posture due to their proximity to both Pakistan and China. The Command has played a vital role in numerous conflicts, including the 1971 Indo-Pak War, the 1999 Kargil conflict, and more recently, the Galwan Valley standoff in 2020.
An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Air Marshal Mann was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on December 16, 1989. With over 3,000 flying hours logged on various fighter platforms, he brings to the role a deep reservoir of operational experience and leadership. Prior to this assignment, he served as the Director General (Weapon Systems) at Air Headquarters, where he was instrumental in overseeing the modernization of the IAF’s weapon and surveillance systems — a key element of India’s evolving defence strategy amidst continued tensions along its borders.
Air Marshal Mann has been decorated with two of India’s highest military honours: the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and the Vayu Sena Medal. These awards, instituted in 1960, recognize distinguished service and exceptional devotion to duty, underscoring his consistent contributions to enhancing the Indian Air Force’s operational preparedness.
As SASO of the Western Air Command, Air Marshal Mann will supervise the planning and execution of air operations across a theatre that encompasses some of the world’s most challenging flying environments. The Command is known for its high-altitude air maintenance missions in Ladakh, including past operations involving aircraft such as the IL-14, An-12, and Mi-4 helicopters. During the Galwan Valley conflict in 2020, the IAF was critical in sustaining frontline posts through airlift operations and reconnaissance missions.
His appointment comes at a crucial time as India continues to upgrade its air defence capabilities and integrate advanced technologies into operational doctrine. With continued tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LoC), the Western Air Command remains the backbone of India’s aerial deterrence.
The Ministry of Defence highlighted that under Air Marshal Mann’s leadership, the IAF’s readiness and strike capabilities in the western theatre are expected to reach new levels of efficiency and responsiveness, especially as the force continues its push toward modernization and joint-force integration.
On June 1 2025, Air Marshal Manish Khanna took over as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Southern Air Command (SAC) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) replacing Air Marshal Balakrishnan Manikantan, who currently serves as AOC-in-C of Central Air Command . His appointment comes at a time when India’s air defence strategy in the southern region and maritime domain awareness are more critical than ever, especially with rising tensions and evolving threats in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Early Life and Military Education
Air Marshal Khanna’s educational background is rooted in the Indian military’s finest institutions. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and has completed advanced military leadership courses at the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) and the College of Air Warfare. He also holds an elite ‘A’ Category Instructor rating, signifying excellence in training and instructional capability.
Commissioned into the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force on 6 December 1986, Air Marshal Khanna brings over 4,000 hours of accident-free flying experience on platforms like the MiG-21, MiG-25, Mirage-2000, F-5, Kiran, and HPT-32. His leadership and operational experience span some of the IAF’s most critical wings and appointments:
Commanding Officer of No. 35 Squadron, known for electronic warfare and reconnaissance.
Led the Aircrew Examination Board, introducing key reforms in pilot assessment.
Senior roles at Air Headquarters in Intelligence, Personnel Planning, and Air Defence Ops.
Commanded major airbases such as AFS Bidar and strategic locations under Western Air Command.
Served as Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Personnel Officers) and Commandant at the College of Air Warfare.
Most recently, he served as Senior Air Staff Officer at South Western Air Command before assuming command of SAC.
Then Air Vice Marshal Taking Over as Commadant of College of Air Warfare
Awards and Honours
Air Marshal Manish Khanna has been the recipient of some of the Indian Air Force’s highest honours in recognition of his exceptional service. In 2010, he was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (VSM) for his unwavering devotion to duty and consistent operational excellence.
This was followed by the conferment of the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2016, which acknowledged his distinguished service of an exceptional order. These prestigious military decorations reflect his deep commitment to India’s air defence preparedness and his significant contributions to strengthening the operational and strategic capabilities of the Indian Air Force.
Vision and Leadership
Air Marshal Khanna is known for his visionary leadership style, marked by innovation, professionalism, and integrated defence thinking. As the current chief of Southern Air Command, his top priorities include:
Modernizing coastal and maritime air defence systems.
Expanding joint operations with the Indian Navy and Indian Army.
Integrating drones and UAVs for enhanced surveillance and rapid response.
Upgrading airbases in South India and island territories, especially for disaster relief and amphibious operations.
He has also pioneered efforts to digitize pilot training and aircrew assessments, introducing online modules and computerised testing systems.
Strategic Role of the Southern Air Command (SAC)
Established on 19 July 1984, the Southern Air Command (SAC) is headquartered in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Its Area of Responsibility (AOR) spans:
Peninsular India and all its southern states.
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep Islands.
Key airbases at Sulur, Thanjavur, and Tambaram.
The command is critical for:
Securing the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Maritime reconnaissance and surveillance.
Humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR).
Supporting India’s Indo-Pacific strategy and joint military exercises.
Beyond the Uniform: Mentor and Reformer
While Air Marshal Khanna keeps a low media profile, he is known within military circles for his dedication to:
Mentoring young officers and pilots.
Supporting digital transformation across IAF training frameworks.
Contributing to veteran welfare and institutional reforms.
His efforts continue to inspire a new generation of air warriors and strengthen the IAF’s core values of integrity, excellence, and service before self.
Conclusion
As the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Southern Air Command, Air Marshal Manish Khanna plays a key role in securing India’s southern airspace and maritime frontiers. With over three decades of operational excellence, strategic foresight, and commitment to technological innovation, he is shaping the future of India’s aerial defence in the Indo-Pacific era.
Under his command, SAC remains not just a regional force, but a strategic pillar in India’s national security architecture.
Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Command, Indian Army, visited the Army Institute of Physical Training (AIPT) in Pune to assess its training programs, infrastructure, and overall contribution to enhancing the physical and mental readiness of Indian soldiers. The visit reflects the Army’s emphasis on holistic well-being as a cornerstone of military preparedness.
Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, #SouthernCommand, visited Army Institute of Physical Training, Pune to review its training, infrastructure and administrative facilities. He witnessed AMAR (Army Martial Arts Routine) and other physical regimen sessions,… pic.twitter.com/yLPz4Rg0CV
— Southern Command INDIAN ARMY (@IaSouthern) June 1, 2025
During the visit, Lt Gen Seth observed live training sessions, including the Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR), an innovative program that combines mixed martial arts to sharpen combat efficiency, agility, and endurance. He also reviewed various physical training modules aimed at developing the core strength and resilience essential for modern combat scenarios.
The General Officer praised AIPT for its pivotal role in strengthening the physical and psychological conditioning of soldiers, underscoring the institute’s importance in preparing troops to meet the demands of contemporary and future battlefields.
Established as a premier training hub in Pune, Maharashtra, the AIPT has, since its renaming in 2005, trained personnel from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and paramilitary forces. It provides a wide array of specialized programs focusing on fitness, mental toughness, and combat skills, supported by modern infrastructure and expert trainers.
Lt Gen Seth, who assumed command of Southern Command on July 1, 2024, has been spearheading initiatives to modernize training protocols and enhance soldier welfare. His visit to AIPT is part of the Indian Army’s broader Holistic Wellbeing initiative, inspired in part by international models like the U.S. Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness system. The approach integrates strength training, agility development, and mental resilience, all vital attributes in the face of increasing military challenges, including along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
The event also featured a ceremonial highlight, with Lt Gen Seth presenting a flag bearing the AIPT insignia to mark the institute’s ongoing contributions to the Army’s training ecosystem. Senior instructors and officers briefed him on the integration of advanced methodologies, such as sports science and martial arts, into the training curriculum.
The Indian Army continues to prioritize cutting-edge, comprehensive training to ensure that its personnel remain physically and mentally equipped to meet the evolving demands of national and global security.
Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Command, conducted a significant visit to the Bombay Engineer Group and Centre, widely known as the Bombay Sappers, located in Kirkee. The visit underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to technological modernization under its “Decade of Transformation” initiative spanning from 2023 to 2032.
During the visit, Lt Gen Seth was received by the Commandant and provided with a comprehensive briefing on the latest training initiatives undertaken by the Centre. He reviewed the updated trade training workshops equipped with advanced tools, reflecting the unit’s efforts to keep pace with evolving battlefield requirements.
Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, #SouthernCommand, visited the Bombay Engineer Group and Centre, #BombaySappers at Kirkee. He was briefed by the Commandant on key training initiatives. The Army Commander reviewed the integration of state-of-the-art trade… pic.twitter.com/eJBmOWPnm9
— Southern Command INDIAN ARMY (@IaSouthern) June 1, 2025
A key highlight of the day was a live demonstration of a cutting-edge drone-based explosive delivery system. This innovation exemplifies the Army’s growing emphasis on incorporating unmanned aerial technologies to enhance precision and effectiveness in future combat scenarios.
In recognition of individual excellence, Lt Gen Seth presented on-the-spot Commendation Cards to several outstanding personnel, appreciating their dedication and urging all ranks to uphold high standards of professionalism and preparedness.
This visit also reinforces the Army’s alignment with the national goal of Aatmanirbhar Bharat by promoting self-reliance in defense technologies. The Bombay Sappers, with their rich legacy and engineering excellence, continue to serve as a critical pillar in the Indian Army’s journey towards becoming a modern, agile, and adaptive force.
In a proud display of discipline and achievement, the Indian Air Force (IAF) held a grand valedictory function at Air Force Station Begumpet on May 31 to commemorate the successful completion of three premier training programs: the 108th Advance Navigation Course (ANC), the 140th Ab-Initio Navigation Course, and the Weapon Systems Ab-Initio Stage-II Course.
The ceremony, hosted at the esteemed Navigation Training School (NTS) and Weapon Systems School (WSS), symbolized a significant milestone in the careers of young IAF officers and cadets. Dressed in pristine white uniforms, the graduating batch stood tall alongside senior officers and instructors, celebrating the culmination of months of rigorous academic and practical training.
Top performers were felicitated with trophies and awards, prominently displayed against a dignified backdrop bearing the IAF emblem and the words “Valedictory Function.” The event reflected the force’s enduring commitment to excellence, professionalism, and technological advancement in aviation and warfare.
The Navigation Training School, affectionately known as ‘TERNS,’ carries a legacy that dates back to 1946 when it was established as the Air Navigation School at the Royal Indian Air Force Station, Tambaram. The institution shifted to Begumpet in 1967 and has since been instrumental in shaping generations of navigators for the IAF. In March 2024, NTS celebrated its Platinum Jubilee, marked by seminars, air displays, and the release of a commemorative ‘Special Cover’ by Air Marshal R. Radhish, as noted by The Hindu.
The Weapon Systems School, another pillar of advanced IAF training, was inaugurated in recent years by the Chief of the Air Staff. The school is dedicated to equipping officers with the skills required to operate sophisticated weapon systems, keeping pace with the dynamic nature of modern aerial warfare.
The 2025 valedictory function continued a tradition of excellence at Begumpet, reminiscent of the 2021 ceremony for the 101st ANC and 133rd Ab-Initio Navigation Course, which was held under strict pandemic protocols. In previous years, trainees from the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and friendly foreign nations have also participated in these elite courses, reflecting the inclusive and strategic scope of IAF’s training.
This event comes at a time when the Indian Air Force is reinforcing its capabilities to counter evolving regional security challenges. With its motto “Touch The Sky With Glory,” the IAF remains steadfast in its mission to defend India’s airspace while investing in the future through world-class training programs.
The graduates of the 108th ANC, 140th Ab-Initio Navigation, and Weapon Systems Stage-II Course now join the ranks of the IAF’s operational cadre, ready to contribute to national security with precision, valor, and technological proficiency.
Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots routinely push their bodies and machines to the edge. Operating advanced fighter aircraft like the Su-30MKI, Rafale, and LCA Tejas, they endure rapid accelerations, tight turns, and high-altitude climbs that subject them to immense gravitational forces (G-forces).
In such extreme conditions, one piece of life-saving gear becomes absolutely essential — the G-suit, or anti-gravity suit. It’s not just a garment; it’s a scientific marvel that enables survival and performance in the skies.
A G-suit is a specially designed flight suit worn by military pilots and astronauts to protect the body from the harmful effects of high G-forces. It typically covers the lower body and includes inflatable bladders or fluid-filled compartments that press against the abdomen and legs.
These suits counteract the natural downward pull of gravity on blood flow during sharp maneuvers, preventing a potentially fatal condition called G-LOC (G-force-induced Loss of Consciousness).
G-Suit.
The Danger of G-Forces
G-forces are experienced during rapid acceleration, deceleration, or tight aerial turns. In high-performance aircraft, pilots often encounter forces up to 9G, meaning their body weight feels nine times heavier than usual. Under such pressure, blood naturally drains from the brain toward the lower limbs, risking a condition called G-LOC (G-force-induced Loss of Consciousness). Symptoms can escalate from greyout and tunnel vision to complete blackout—potentially fatal in the middle of a flight mission.
Image showing the effect of G-Force.
The Science of G-Forces
During fast aerial maneuvers, pilots can experience up to 9G, meaning their body feels nine times heavier than normal. At such force levels:
Blood is pulled away from the brain to the lower extremities.
This causes greyout, tunnel vision, or blackout.
If unchecked, it can result in complete loss of consciousness (G-LOC) — a deadly situation mid-flight.
The G-suit’s compression technology prevents this by keeping blood circulating to the brain even under intense acceleration.
Here is a video showing the fatality of 9G force for a few seconds:
Source: New York Post
How G-Suits Work?
Modern G-suits are integrated with sensors that inflate air bladders as G-forces increase. This external pressure on the legs and abdomen:
Keeps blood from pooling in the lower body,
Maintains blood pressure to the brain,
Works alongside Anti-G Straining Maneuvers (AGSM) — a technique where pilots tense their muscles and regulate breathing to maintain consciousness.
Together, the G-suit and pilot’s training act as a dual shield against high-G trauma.
Here is a video explanation:
Source: Proportion-Air, Inc.
Why Indian Air Force Pilots Depend on G-Suits?
The key reasons of G-Suits being critical for the IAF are:
Combat aircraft like Rafale and Su-30MKI perform high-speed, high-G turns.
Training exercises and real combat both involve extended high-G exposure.
G-suits improve survivability, combat efficiency, and endurance during prolonged missions.
They form part of a comprehensive pilot life-support system that includes oxygen masks, helmets, and pressure suits.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in G-Suit.
Indigenous G-Suit Development in India
India has made remarkable strides in developing its own indigenous G-suit technology:
The Defence Bio-Engineering & Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL), a unit under DRDO, has designed G-suits for aircraft like MiG-29, Mirage 2000, and LCA Tejas.
These suits are:
Flame-retardant,
Made with thermo-resistant materials,
Designed to enhance G-tolerance by 1 to 1.5 G,
Tailored for tropical and subcontinental conditions.
The move from imported to Make in India G-suits reflects India’s drive toward self-reliance in aerospace technology.
Global Standards vs. India: How IAF G-Suits Compare
While the US Air Force (USAF), Royal Air Force (RAF), and Russian Aerospace Forces use advanced G-suit systems, India stands out for its commitment to indigenization. Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, the IAF now has:
Customized, locally manufactured G-suits,
Faster access to maintenance and upgrades,
Reduced dependency on foreign vendors.
This not only enhances combat readiness but also supports the Indian defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The Future of G-Suits in India
India is already planning the next generation of G-suits, as evidenced by DEBEL’s R&D initiatives:
Smart fabrics that adjust compression automatically based on body signals,
Biometric sensors to monitor heart rate, oxygen saturation, and fatigue,
Real-time health feedback sent to flight command systems.
Such intelligent flight gear could dramatically improve pilot safety, situational awareness, and mission effectiveness in the years ahead.
Conclusion
The G-suit is more than military apparel — it’s a sophisticated life-support system that protects IAF pilots in some of the most punishing environments known to man. As India strengthens its air defence and aerospace capabilities, innovations in G-suit technology exemplify the powerful intersection of science, engineering, and national security.
With homegrown expertise and futuristic vision, India ensures that its fighter pilots remain safe, sharp, and sovereign in the skies they defend.
In a significant crackdown on an international cyber fraud network, Delhi Police have arrested two individuals with alleged Chinese links for duping a retired Indian Army colonel of ₹41.45 lakh under the guise of high returns from digital gold trading. The arrests were made in southwest Delhi, following an extensive investigation that tracked the digital trail to a hotel in Ahmedabad.
The accused, identified as Indra Kumar Sahani and Rahim Khan, allegedly operated a sophisticated, multi-layered fraud scheme involving mule bank accounts, remote access tools, and cryptocurrency. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Surendra Choudhary, Khan was in direct contact with Chinese nationals through a messaging app and coordinated the operations by gathering account holders from across India into hotel rooms in Ahmedabad.
Once recruited, these individuals’ devices and SIM cards were linked with bank accounts through which illicit transfers were made. Foreign-based scammers were granted remote access to these accounts via specially installed apps, facilitating seamless fund movement without alerting Indian authorities.
The fraud came to light after a retired army colonel residing in Vasant Kunj filed a complaint. He was initially approached on social media and lured into investing in a fake online platform that promised lucrative returns through gold trading in US dollars. After seeing rapid, artificial profits on his fake account, he invested ₹41.45 lakh in total. However, when he attempted to withdraw what appeared to be ₹1 crore in returns, he was asked to pay an additional ₹31.5 lakh as tax, which raised his suspicions and led to the police complaint.
Following digital forensics and surveillance, a police team raided the hotel in Ahmedabad and arrested Sahani. Three smartphones containing incriminating evidence were recovered. Based on his interrogation, Rahim Khan was also arrested, and two more devices were seized.
Police investigations revealed that Sahani initially opened a personal bank account, but later opened nine more current accounts, which he sold to the syndicate for commission. The accused reportedly converted the stolen money into USDT cryptocurrency and transferred it abroad to evade enforcement scrutiny.
Authorities say the case has unearthed a wider cyber fraud network with transnational reach and that further investigation is underway to identify more victims and collaborators.
In a prompt and coordinated response to severe flooding across Manipur, the Indian Army and Assam Rifles launched Operation Jal Rahat 2 to provide urgent relief and evacuate stranded civilians. Nearly 800 people were rescued across multiple localities in Imphal East and West districts.
Equipped with Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and rescue boats, Assam Rifles troops reached some of the worst-affected areas, including Porompat, Wankhei, Sanjenthong, Palace Compound, New Checkon, Khurai Heikrumakhong Heinang, Soibam Leikai, Wangkhei Angom Leikai, and Nongmeibung Raj Bari.
Two major rescue columns were activated. The first, based in Singjamei, operated in Wangkhei Khunou from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., rescuing 193 people, including 64 men, 85 women, and 44 children. The second column operated in Heikrumakhong between 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., rescuing 182 individuals—35 men, 90 women, and 57 children.
An additional 408 people, including 137 men, 179 women, and 92 children, were evacuated from other submerged areas. Among the rescued were also 10 to 20 elderly and differently abled individuals.
All evacuees were relocated to safer areas with access to clean drinking water, food supplies, and immediate medical aid.
In a critical intervention, Assam Rifles also responded to a request from the Director of All India Radio (AIR) Imphal and evacuated the AIR office premises, which had been inundated.
The operation was conducted in intense flood conditions, with troops navigating submerged areas using buoyant rescue boats. Authorities have confirmed that the situation is now under control.
