On Wednesday, a tragic incident occurred at the Siachen glacier, resulting in the loss of one Army officer’s life and injuries to three soldiers due to a fire accident.
According to Leh’s Defence PRO, Lt Col PS Sidhu, the injured personnel have been successfully evacuated to a hospital for treatment.
Captain Anshuman Singh
Among the casualties, Captain Anshuman Singh, the Regiment Medical Officer, unfortunately, succumbed to severe burn injuries. The other three personnel suffered from smoke inhalation and second-degree burns.
However, they have been safely air-evacuated to receive further medical attention, and their conditions are reported to be stable, as confirmed by the Defence PRO. The incident occurred around 3 AM, and further details are still awaited regarding the cause and circumstances surrounding the accident.
Near Captain Anshuman’s bunker, an ammunition dump caught fire, posing a grave threat to the lives of those nearby. Without hesitation, Capt Anshuman sprang into action, displaying immense courage and determination to rescue as many soldiers as possible.
He fearlessly entered the hazardous area, risking his own safety to search for additional survivors.
Tragically, despite his valiant efforts, Capt Anshuman did not return. His selfless heroism in the face of danger saved numerous lives, but it cost him his own. The memory of his bravery and sacrifice will forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched and the nation he served. Capt Anshuman’s selflessness and dedication serve as a profound reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by our brave soldiers in the line of duty. May his legacy be honored and his spirit forever remembered.
According to the police, a female officer of the Indian Air Force (IAF) sustained severe injuries after an alleged attack by a mess worker at her official residence in Punjab’s Pathankot district.
The incident occurred on Monday night when the accused forcibly entered the officer’s house with the intention of committing robbery.
The officer, who holds the rank of Squadron Leader, was asleep when she heard unusual noises and woke up.
Upon discovering the intruder, she attempted to confront him, but he assaulted her with a knife, resulting in multiple injuries.
Pathankot Senior Superintendent of Police Harkamalpreet Singh Khakh confirmed the incident and stated that the perpetrator, identified as Makhan Singh, was arrested with the assistance of CCTV footage.
At the time of the incident, the woman officer was alone in her residence.
Another female IAF officer residing in a nearby quarter noticed the injured victim when she visited her house and immediately called for help.
The injured officer was promptly taken to a hospital and later transferred to the Army’s Command Hospital in Chandimandir, Haryana.
Khakh mentioned that the investigation revealed the presence of the mess worker Makhan Singh near the Squadron Leader’s residence on multiple occasions, as captured by the CCTV footage.
The accused has been apprehended and charged with attempted murder, while further investigations into the case are ongoing.
The police stated that the accused resided in close proximity to the victim’s house. The condition of the female officer remains critical.
General Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff COAS, presented the prestigious Best Marching Contingent Trophy for the Republic Day 2023 Parade to the Punjab Regiment.
He commended the contingent for their outstanding performance during the parade, acknowledging their remarkable display.
In addition, General Manoj Pande COAS engaged with and honored the Tri-services Contingent of the Indian Armed Forces, who participated in the Bastille Day Parade 2023 in France.
Punjab Regiment Received Best Marching Contingent Trophy
He praised the contingent for their flawless drill and applauded their dedication and hard work, recognizing their exceptional efforts.
During the ceremony, General Pande personally presented the trophy to the victorious Punjab Regiment Contingent and extended his felicitations to all its members.
In an emotional moment, Captain Jagtap expressed his immense pride in marching on the same avenue in Paris where their ancestors had marched 107 years ago. The Punjab Regiment had valiantly served in both World Wars, making supreme sacrifices for the nation.
Participating in the Bastille Day Parade in front of their Prime Minister was a matter of great honor for Captain Jagtap and the entire Punjab Regiment. Their presence symbolized the rich legacy and dedication of the regiment to the nation’s service.
Can Indian Army Officers Resign? The resignation process for Indian Army officers is a matter of great importance, as it directly impacts the functioning and structure of the armed forces.
The rules and regulations surrounding officer resignations are designed to maintain discipline and ensure the smooth operation of the military.
In this article, we will delve into the provisions that govern officer resignations in the Indian Army, shedding light on the requirements and procedures involved.
Can Indian Army Officers Resign
Can Indian Army Officers Resign Anytime?
Retirement of an officer at his own request
According to the regulations, the retirement of an officer at their own request before they become liable for retirement under rule 16A (Army Rules 1954) necessitates the sanction of the Central Government.
This requirement is in place to maintain control and oversight over the resignation process. It ensures that resignations are not granted arbitrarily, safeguarding the integrity and stability of the armed forces.
While officers in the Indian Army do not possess an inherent right to resign their commission, they are allowed to submit an application to the Central Government expressing their desire to resign.
However, it is important to note that officers cannot be relieved of their duties until the Central Government accepts their resignation. This provision serves as a safeguard against abrupt resignations that could disrupt military operations or compromise national security.
Withdrawal of Resignation Application
In certain cases, an officer whose application to resign their commission has been accepted may have a change of heart before being relieved of their duties. In such situations, they can apply to the Central Government to withdraw their resignation application.
The decision to grant withdrawal of the application rests with the Central Government, and it is at their discretion to accept or deny the officer’s request.
Dismissal or Removal Procedures
The process of dismissal or removal from service follows a specific set of guidelines. Unless an officer has been convicted by a criminal court or a court martial, they cannot be dismissed or removed without being informed of the particulars of the cause of action against them.
They must also be allowed a reasonable amount of time to provide written reasons in defense of their actions. These measures ensure fairness and provide officers with an opportunity to address any allegations made against them.
Exceptional Circumstances
Under exceptional circumstances, where it is deemed impracticable or not in the best interest of the armed forces to comply with the prescribed procedures for dismissal or removal, the competent officer may order the dismissal or removal without adhering to the usual protocol.
However, this decision must be certified as such, and all cases where the prescribed procedure has not been followed must be reported to the Central Government.
The effective date of an officer’s dismissal under Section 19 or their retirement, resignation, release, or removal shall be as specified in the official Gazette notification concerning such dismissal, retirement, or removal.
The Indian Army maintains strict regulations regarding officer resignations to ensure discipline, stability, and the uninterrupted functioning of the armed forces. While officers do not have an inherent right to resign, they can submit applications for resignation.
So this was about can Indian Army Officers Resign or not. However, the Central Government holds the authority to sanction and accept these resignations. The provisions for withdrawal of resignation and the procedures for dismissal or removal also offer a fair and just approach to address any issues or concerns that may arise. By upholding these regulations, the Indian Army maintains its operational efficiency and continues to safeguard the nation’s security.
On July 17, Ashok Leyland, the second-largest commercial vehicle manufacturer in India, revealed that it secured a significant order worth Rs 800 crore from the Indian armed forces.
The company’s release emphasized that Ashok Leyland is the primary provider of logistics vehicles to the Indian Army.
Of the various contracts awarded to Ashok Leyland, the agreements to produce the Field Artillery Tractor (FAT 4×4) and the Gun Towing Vehicle (GTV 6×6) hold special significance, as they were prominently featured in the initial positive indigenization list declared by the Government of India.
Ashok Leyland Got Defence orders
Shenu Agarwal, the Managing Director and CEO of Ashok Leyland, expressed gratitude for the government’s confidence in the automotive brand while commenting on this development.
“Ashok Leyland has made substantial investments in the development of mobility platforms, including 4×4, 6×6, 8×8, 10×10, and 12×12 configurations, catering to diverse applications and operational needs of the Indian Armed Forces,” stated Amandeep Singh, the President of the company’s defense business.
These platforms are designed, developed, and manufactured domestically by Ashok Leyland, contributing to the reduction of imports in the defense sector.
Himanshu Singh, an analyst at Prabudhas Liladher Pvt, mentioned, “Ashok Leyland aims to expedite its defense business growth in the next three years, targeting tender wins of over Rs 3,500 crore, compared to the Rs 2,000 crore achieved in the past five years.”
The company boasts an impressive tender win rate of over 80% in land mobility tenders, and a higher proportion of defense business will assist in mitigating business cyclicality, he added.
As of 12:20 pm, shares of Ashok Leyland increased by 1.08% to Rs 173.60 apiece, outperforming the 0.36% gain in the NSE Nifty 50.
The trading volume in the day has reached 1.7 times its monthly average.
According to Bloomberg data, out of the 46 analysts tracking the company, 36 maintain a ‘buy’ rating, six recommend a ‘hold’, and four suggest a ‘sell’. The average 12-month consensus price target indicates a potential upside of 3.6%.
About Ashok Leyland
Ashok Leyland is one of the leading manufacturers of commercial vehicles in India. The company was founded in 1948 and is headquartered in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Ashok Leyland is a flagship company of the Hinduja Group and has a strong presence in the automotive industry.
The company specializes in the production of a wide range of commercial vehicles, including trucks, buses, and light commercial vehicles. Ashok Leyland has established itself as a major player in the Indian market and has also expanded its presence globally, exporting its vehicles to various countries.
Ashok Leyland is known for its focus on innovation and technology. The company has invested in research and development to develop advanced vehicles that meet the evolving needs of its customers. It has also been actively involved in the development of sustainable and eco-friendly technologies, such as electric and hybrid vehicles.
Apart from the commercial vehicle segment, Ashok Leyland also has a presence in the defense sector. The company provides a range of specialized vehicles for defense applications, catering to the requirements of the Indian Armed Forces.
Over the years, Ashok Leyland has received numerous accolades and awards for its products, manufacturing excellence, and contributions to the automotive industry. The company continues to be a prominent player in the commercial vehicle market, contributing to India’s transportation infrastructure and economic growth.
What is the duty of a Major in the Indian Army? If you are an aspirant you must be wondering what all work and responsibility you will be facing as a Major in Indian Army.
The rank of Major in the Indian Army carries substantial power and responsibilities. As a Major, one holds a position of significant authority and is entrusted with the leadership of a company, which typically consists of around 120 to 150 soldiers.
Duty of a Major
The duty of a Major encompasses a wide range of responsibilities. They are responsible for the operational readiness and effectiveness of their company. This includes ensuring that their soldiers are well-trained, disciplined, and prepared for combat or other operational requirements.
Majors are involved in planning and executing military operations, working closely with their superiors to develop strategies, coordinate resources, and make tactical decisions. They are responsible for the welfare and morale of their troops, ensuring their well-being, and addressing any issues or concerns they may have.
In addition to leading their company, Majors also have administrative duties. They are responsible for the maintenance of equipment, managing logistics, and maintaining communication with higher-ranking officers and headquarters.
Furthermore, Majors serve as mentors and role models for their subordinates, providing guidance, motivation, and professional development opportunities. They are expected to exhibit strong leadership qualities, decision-making skills, and the ability to adapt to challenging and dynamic situations.
Overall, the power of a Major in the Indian Army lies in their authority to lead a company and make critical decisions that impact the success of military operations. Their duties encompass various aspects of operational readiness, troop welfare, administration, and leadership, all aimed at maintaining the effectiveness and combat readiness of their unit.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi graced the Bastille Day parade in Paris as the Guest of Honour on Friday, adding to the grandeur of the French National Day celebrations.
Indian Armed Forces on Bastille Day
A remarkable Indian tri-services marching contingent, consisting of 269 members, captivated the crowd as they marched to the patriotic tune of “Saare Jahan Se Accha” and participated in the parade. The contingent also joined the flypast, showcasing their synchronized skills.
Indian soldiers march during a rehearsal for the Bastille Day parade in Paris
As the Indian contingent passed the dais where President Macron, Prime Minister Modi, and other dignitaries were seated, Prime Minister Modi paid his respects by saluting them.
This gesture highlighted the camaraderie between India and France during the event.
On July 13, 2023, the Indian Defence Ministry announced its approval of procurement plans for 26 Rafale fighter aircraft and three Scorpene class conventional submarines from France for the Indian Navy.
In a statement, the ministry stated that the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) convened under the leadership of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and approved three proposals.
One of the proposals granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft, along with associated ancillary equipment, weapons, simulators, spares, documentation, crew training, and logistic support for the Indian Navy.
This procurement will be conducted through an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) with the French government.
The specifics of the purchase, including the price and other terms, will be negotiated with the French government, taking into consideration various factors such as the comparative procurement price of similar aircraft by other nations.
Mahindra recently took to Twitter to share exciting news. The renowned Indian car manufacturer, known for its strong ties with the Indian armed forces, announced that it has received an order for approximately 2,000 Mahindra Scorpio Classic vehicles from the Indian Army. In particular, Mahindra revealed that they received an additional order of around 1,850 units of their legendary SUV, the Mahindra Scorpio Classic, from the Indian Army.
Mahindra Scorpio Classic Indian Army Details
Mahindra’s connection with the Indian armed forces dates back to 1947 when the company initiated its automotive operations by assembling the Willys Jeep for the Indian military. Since then, Mahindra has been actively supplying vehicles to the Indian Army. This recent development further solidifies their long-standing partnership, emphasizing the trust and reliability placed in Mahindra’s products.
The Mahindra Scorpio Classic, known for its ruggedness and versatility, has become a preferred choice for various military applications. Its powerful performance and off-road capabilities make it well-suited for challenging terrains and demanding operations. With this new order, Mahindra reinforces its commitment to providing high-quality vehicles that cater to the unique requirements of the Indian Army.
This announcement highlights Mahindra’s ongoing dedication to serving the Indian armed forces and contributing to national defense. By consistently delivering vehicles that meet the stringent standards of the military, Mahindra plays a crucial role in bolstering the mobility and operational capabilities of the Indian Army.
As Mahindra continues to strengthen its relationship with the Indian armed forces, the company remains a key player in the defense and automotive sectors of the country. The order for 2,000 vehicles, including the Scorpio Classic, signifies another significant milestone in Mahindra’s partnership with the Indian Army, reinforcing their position as a reliable and trusted provider of military-grade vehicles.
Mahindra Scorpio Classic Indian Army Specifications
Currently, the Indian Army utilizes various vehicles such as the Tata Safari, Tata Xenon, Force Gurkha, and Maruti Suzuki Gypsy. The inclusion of the Mahindra Scorpio Classic will further enhance the capabilities of the Indian Army. It is anticipated that Mahindra will equip the Scorpio Classic with a 4×4 powertrain, possibly utilizing the previous generation 2.2-liter engine that produced approximately 140 horsepower.
The Scorpio Classic is presently equipped with a 2.2-liter diesel engine, generating 130 horsepower and 300 Nm of peak torque. It operates with rear-wheel drive and a 6-speed gearbox, lacking an automatic transmission or a 4×4 powertrain option.
Mahindra has made significant changes under the hood of the Scorpio Classic. The new engine is lighter by 55 kg compared to the previous generation. Mahindra claims that the engine delivers 230 Nm of torque from as low as 1,000 rpm, and fuel efficiency is expected to improve by 15 percent. The transmission now incorporates cable-shift technology, reducing vibrations and resulting in shorter, more positive gear shifts.
Furthermore, the suspension setup of the Scorpio Classic has been upgraded and retuned. Mahindra has implemented MTV-CL dampers on all four struts to enhance body roll control. The SUV now boasts additional features such as cruise control, automatic climate control, cornering lamps, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a sunglass holder, fabric seats with diamond patterns, and more.
With these improvements, the Mahindra Scorpio Classic demonstrates Mahindra’s commitment to enhancing performance, comfort, and convenience. As it joins the fleet of vehicles used by the Indian Army, it is poised to contribute significantly to their operations with its enhanced capabilities and feature-rich design.
In a recent announcement, Mahindra celebrated a significant milestone for its Scorpio nameplate, reaching a production volume of nine lakhs. The company currently offers two variants of the SUV in India: the Scorpio-N, which embodies a modern and feature-rich design, and the Scorpio Classic, which retains its rugged and practical appeal, making it suitable for demanding tasks.
Considering the suitability of SUVs for the armed forces, apart from the Mahindra Scorpio Classic, which other SUV(s) do you believe would be well-suited to meet their requirements? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Below is a detailed table outlining the minimum height, chest size, and weight requirements for Indian Army recruitment for Agniveer, regular soldiers, other ranks, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), and Havildar (General, Technical, and Clerk) categories.
Indian Army Soldier Minimum Height, Chest and Weight
The Indian Army has specific requirements for minimum height, chest, and weight for soldiers. Here are the general guidelines:
Minimum Height:
The minimum height requirement for the Indian Army varies based on the region and category. Generally, for the Indian Army Agniveer Soldier General Duty (GD) category, the minimum height requirement is 160 cm for males and 157 cm (5 feet 2 inches) for females.
However, different regions and categories may have slight variations in the height criteria. It is essential to refer to the official Indian Army recruitment notifications for specific height requirements based on your region and category of interest.
Chest Requirement:
For male candidates, the minimum chest expansion requirement is generally 77 cm (30 inches) with a minimum of 5 cm (2 inches) of expansion. This means that the chest size should be at least 77 cm in a normal state and expand to a minimum of 82 cm (32 inches) during inhalation.
The chest measurement requirement for females varies, and it is advisable to refer to the official recruitment notifications for the specific criteria.
Weight Requirement:
The weight requirement for the Indian Army is based on the Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation. The BMI is calculated by dividing an individual’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.
Generally, the weight requirement for males falls within the range of 48 to 50 kg, depending on height and other factors.
The weight requirement for females may vary and is typically determined based on the BMI calculation.
It is important to note that these are general guidelines, and specific requirements may vary based on the region, category, and recruitment cycle. It is recommended to refer to the official Indian Army recruitment notifications for accurate and up-to-date information on height, chest, and weight requirements for soldiers.
Standard Minimum Height, Unexpanded Chest and Weight
The table also provides state-wise information for height, weight, and chest size criteria:
The entire country has been divided into six regions namely; Western Plains Region, Eastern Plains Region, Central Region, Southern Region, Western Himalayan Region and Eastern Himalayan Region. The minimum physical standards for the various regions are as follows:
Regions
States
Height (Cms)
Chest
Weight
Agniveer General Duty & Tradesmen
Agniveer Technical
Agniveer Clerk / Store Keeper Technical
(Cms)
(Kgs)
Western Himalayan Region
Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab Hills (Area South and West of the Inter State Border between Himachal Pradesh and Punjab and North and East ofRoad Mukerian, Hoshiarpur, Garh Shankar, Ropar and Chandigarh), Garhwal and Kumaon (Uttarakhand)
163
163
162
77
48
Eastern Himalayan Region
Sikkim, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Assam and Hill Region of West Bengal (Gangtok, Darjeeling and Kalimpong Districts)
160
157
160
77
48
Western Plains Region
Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh,Delhi, Rajasthan and Western Uttar Pradesh (Meerut and Agra Division)
170
170
162
77
50
Eastern Plains Region
Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand and Orissa
169
169
162
77
50
Central Region
Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Dadar, Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu
168
167
162
*77
50
Southern Region
Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka,Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Goa and Puducherry
166
165
162
77
50
* Dispensation in chest measurement of 01 cm has been granted for Agniveer Technical category in the Central Region.
Special Physical Standards
Minimum physical standards as given below will apply to the followings:
Ser. No
Physical Standards
Height (Cms)
Chest (Cms)
Weight (Kgs)
(a)
Ladakhi
157
77
50
(b)
Gorkhas both Nepalese and Indian
157
77
48
(c)
Candidates from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep Group of Islands including Minicoy.
(i) Settlers
165
77
50
(ii) Locals
155
77
50
(d)
Tribals of Recognized Tribal Areas
162
77
48
(e)
The Brigade of Guards
173
77
50
(f)
Medium Artillery
170
77
50
(g)
Corps of Military Police
173
77
50
(h)
Agniveer (General Duty) Women in Corps of Military Police
162 (04 cms Height relaxation for certain dispensation areas as given in the notification)
–
Proportionate to height and age as per Army medical standards.
*(j)
Agniveer Clerk (Staff Duty) / Store Keeper Technical
162
77
50
(k)
RT JCO RT JCO (Gorkhas & Ladakhi region Candidates )
160 157
77 77
50 48
(l)
Agniveer Tradesmen
Minimum physical standards of the regions given above, minus 1 Cm chest and 2 Kg weight. Ht criteria would be as par with Soldier General Duty as relevant to the region.
As applicable to Soldier General Duty for various regions.
Note:* Regional physical standards lower than the standards laid down in Paragraph (j) above will be applicable to clerical candidates belonging to those region.
Relaxations in Physical Standards
The following categories will be permitted relaxations in physical standards as mentioned against each:
Ser. No
Physical Standards
Height (Cms)
Chest (Cms)
Weight (Kgs)
(a)
Son of Serving Soldier (SOS) / Ex-Servicemen (SOEX), Son-in-Law of a War Widow (SOWW) and Widow of Ex-Servicemen Adopted Son/Son-in-Law of a War Widow, if she has no son and including a legally adopted son of serving Soldier / Ex-Servicemen
2
1
2
(b)
Outstanding Sportsmen (National / State & those who represented District / College / School in State / University / Board Championship & earned 1st/ 2nd position)
2
3
5
(c)
Agniveer (General Duty) Women in Corps of Military Police.
(i) Daughter of Servicemen (DOS) & Daughter of Ex-Servicemen (DOES), Daughter of War Widow (DOWW) and Daughter of Widow of Ex-servicemen (DOW). For adopted daughter/daughter in-law of a war widow, if she has no daughter and including a legally adopted daughter(for consideration of daughter in-law) of serving Soldier/Ex-Servicemen. adoption should have been done during the lifetime of the Servicemen/Ex-servicemen.
2
–
2
(ii) Widows of Defence pers who have died in harness.
2
–
2
(iii) Outstanding Sportswomen (National/State & those who represented District, College/School State/University Championship).
