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Chinese Surveillance Foils India’s Planned BrahMos Strike on Pakistan’s JF-17 Factory

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As reported by IDRW, in a revelation that raises serious concerns for India’s national security, Lieutenant General Rahul R Singh, Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Capability Development & Sustenance), has hinted that China provided real-time intelligence to Pakistan during the recent India–Pakistan conflict, codenamed Operation Sindoor. According to Lt Gen Singh, this intelligence support helped the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) track Indian Air Force (IAF) operations, including a planned BrahMos missile strike on Pakistan’s key fighter jet production centre at Kamra.

Speaking at the ‘New Age Military Technologies’ seminar organised by FICCI, Lt Gen Singh stated that during de-escalation talks between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan, the Pakistani side revealed they were aware of specific IAF strike plans. This included the vector of a Su-30MKI aircraft armed with the BrahMos-A air-launched cruise missile, which was reportedly targeting the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) in Kamra, a critical site where Pakistan co-develops and assembles the JF-17 fighter jets in partnership with China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation.

The Pakistani DGMO reportedly pleaded for the strike to be called off during the talks, citing knowledge of India’s operational intent. This information, according to Indian sources, could only have come through direct Chinese surveillance support—possibly via satellite imagery or electronic intelligence.

PAC Kamra is one of the most strategically important facilities in Pakistan’s defence ecosystem. It houses assembly lines for fighter aircraft, radar and avionics units, and is central to Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder and J-10C fleet operations. A successful strike by India would have dealt a significant blow to Pakistan’s aerial combat readiness.

Operation Sindoor, which began on May 7, 2025, was launched in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 Indian civilians. Over the next four days, India launched coordinated precision strikes on Pakistani terror infrastructure and military assets. Targets included key airbases like Nur Khan, Sargodha, and Bholari, with India deploying advanced weaponry such as BrahMos cruise missiles, SCALP-EG air-to-ground missiles, and Spice-2000 precision bombs. Pakistan’s losses reportedly included three JF-17 Thunders, two Mirage fighters, an F-16, a Saab 2000 Erieye AWACS, and a C-130B military transport aircraft.

Lt Gen Singh’s disclosure suggests that China’s surveillance and ISR (intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance) infrastructure was actively used to monitor IAF strike formations and relay data to Pakistani command centres. This level of cooperation represents a new dimension in the China–Pakistan strategic alliance—one that directly impacts India’s security planning.

Social media activity and defence watchers had already hinted at Chinese assistance to Pakistan during the conflict. Now, with confirmation from a top Indian military leader, it is clear that Beijing’s role extended well beyond arms supply or diplomatic support. Chinese ISR assets gave Pakistan a crucial tactical advantage by helping it anticipate IAF operations in real time.

For Indian defence planners, this marks a turning point. The two-front threat is no longer theoretical. India must now strengthen its counter-surveillance, space-based ISR, and cyber capabilities to ensure operational secrecy. The revelation also underscores the importance of investing in stealth technology, electromagnetic warfare systems, and satellite protection mechanisms.

China’s expanding military footprint in South Asia, including its technological integration into Pakistan’s air and missile systems, means future conflicts may involve coordinated responses by both adversaries. As the regional security dynamic evolves, India will need to recalibrate its doctrine and preparedness to safeguard its interests in a highly contested environment.

Rear Admiral Rupak Barua Leads NTSC-43 Valedictory Ceremony at MILIT, Pune

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Rear Admiral Rupak Barua, Director General of Naval Armament Inspection, presided over the valedictory ceremony of the 43rd Naval Technical Staff Course (NTSC-43) at the Military Institute of Technology (MILIT), Pune. The ceremony marked the successful completion of a key technical training programme aimed at enhancing the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities through advanced technological expertise.

Appointed to his current role on July 1, 2024, Rear Admiral Barua addressed the graduating officers and emphasized the critical importance of integrating niche technologies such as advanced information systems and information security into naval operations. He urged officers to apply these skills in future deployments, in line with the global shift towards technology-driven warfare. His remarks echoed findings from a RAND Corporation study that showed militaries embracing specialized technologies can boost efficiency by up to 30% in high-risk operational zones.

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The event also celebrated individual academic achievements. Lt Sriponmalar P was felicitated for securing the first position in academics, while Lt Priya Nandal received recognition for her outstanding dissertation. Their accomplishments highlight the growing presence of women in the Navy, where female officers now constitute 2.5% of the corps—a steady rise since their induction began in 1992.

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The NTSC-43 is one of MILIT’s flagship courses, designed to equip naval officers with the latest skills in defense technologies. The institute, established in 1952 as the Institute of Armament Studies, has grown into a tri-services training centre offering 23 different courses, ranging from short-term modules to nearly year-long programmes. The focus remains on future-oriented training, supporting India’s push toward defence indigenization and maritime readiness.

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Rear Admiral Barua’s participation in the ceremony underscored his commitment to fostering technological innovation and preparing naval officers for increasingly complex strategic environments, especially in the Indo-Pacific, a region where 60% of global maritime trade flows. His leadership is expected to play a key role in aligning the Navy’s training and armament inspection systems with emerging global standards.

Tata Showcases WhAP 8×8 and ALS Munitions at DEFEA 2025, Attracts Interest from Greece

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Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) made a prominent appearance at the DEFEA 2025 defence exhibition in Athens, Greece, drawing attention with its flagship Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8 and advanced loitering munitions, including the ALS-50 and newly developed ALS-250. The Greek military has shown particular interest in the WhAP 8×8 Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), which was a centrepiece of TASL’s display.

The WhAP 8×8, also known as the Kestrel, is a fully indigenous amphibious infantry combat vehicle developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Designed with modularity and versatility in mind, the WhAP can function as either an Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV) or an APC. It can carry up to 12 soldiers and support a range of weapon systems, including 30mm autocannons, anti-tank guided missiles, and remote-controlled weapon stations. Its amphibious capability, independent suspension, and adaptability for roles such as troop transport, reconnaissance, and direct combat make it suitable for diverse operational terrains, including deserts, mountains, and riverine environments.

The platform features protection against 14.5mm armour-piercing rounds and optional slat or composite armour for improved survivability against rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Already deployed by the Indian Army along the northern and eastern borders and in use by paramilitary forces in insurgency-affected zones, the WhAP has undergone rigorous testing in extreme conditions such as high-altitude Ladakh and the Pokhran desert.

TASL also presented its next-generation loitering munitions, which have drawn attention for their combat-proven performance and advanced features. The ALS-50, a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) loitering munition, is already operational with the Indian Army and Air Force. It has been tested successfully in high-altitude regions and used in combat scenarios, offering a range of over 50 kilometers and a 6 kg payload. It supports autonomous targeting, anti-jamming capability, and precision strike accuracy within two meters, making it suitable for tactical missions in confined or fortified environments.

A key highlight of the display was the ALS-250, a long-range autonomous loitering munition developed for high-altitude and strategic operations. With a range exceeding 250 kilometers, it is designed to meet the demands of challenging zones like the Line of Actual Control (LAC), where India faces sophisticated threats from China’s PLA. The ALS-250 is equipped with a gyrostabilised EO/IR turret for day-and-night, all-weather operations and can carry either an 8 kg high-explosive pre-fragmented or a tandem anti-armour warhead. It features autonomous navigation, mission abort, and safe recovery functions, allowing it to perform effectively even in GPS-denied environments.

TASL’s participation at DEFEA 2025 reflects India’s expanding role in global defence exports and its commitment to indigenous defence manufacturing under the Make in India initiative. The strong interest from Greece in platforms like the WhAP highlights the growing relevance of Indian military technology in the international market.

Meet Sub Lt Aastha Poonia: Indian Navy’s First Female Fighter Pilot

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Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia has etched her name in Indian military history by becoming the first woman to be trained as a fighter pilot in the Indian Navy. This trailblazing achievement not only marks a milestone in gender integration within the Indian Armed Forces, but also symbolizes a bold step towards a more inclusive combat force. Her induction into the Navy’s elite fighter stream has been widely hailed by the defence establishment and the public alike.

Who is Sub Lt Aastha Poonia?

Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia is in her early 20s and hails from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. What makes her journey particularly inspiring is that she does not come from a military background—a testament to her determination and dedication to serve the nation in a combat role.

She completed her Bachelor of Technology (BTech) degree before joining the Indian Navy through the Short Service Commission (SSC) route. Her academic foundation laid the groundwork for a technically demanding career in naval aviation.

Aastha Poonia began her military journey at the prestigious Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala, Kerala. Following this, she underwent basic flying training at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, where she trained on the Pilatus PC-7 Mk II aircraft—a standard trainer for beginner military aviators.

After completing her basic training, she progressed to advanced flying on the Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) at INS Dega, Visakhapatnam. She was part of the Second Basic Hawk Conversion Course, a crucial phase that prepared her for the demanding role of a fighter pilot.

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Wings of Gold and Fighter Induction

On July 3, 2025, Sub Lt Poonia was formally awarded the “Wings of Gold”, a prestigious symbol of her graduation as a qualified naval aviator. The honour was presented by Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air), during a ceremonial event at INS Dega.

Following this, she will undergo further advanced training on the Hawk AJT, and is slated to qualify to fly the MiG-29K — India’s frontline carrier-based fighter jet, deployed from aircraft carriers like INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.

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Why Her Achievement Matters

Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia has created history by becoming the first woman in the Indian Navy to be streamed into the fighter aircraft branch. Until now, the Navy had limited women officers to roles in maritime reconnaissance missions, helicopter operations, and transport aviation. With this development, the Indian Navy has taken a significant step toward integrating women into frontline combat roles.

This breakthrough builds upon previous milestones achieved by women in naval aviation. In 2019, Lt Shivangi Singh became the first woman pilot in the Indian Navy, although her role was limited to non-fighter operations. Aastha Poonia’s induction marks the beginning of a new chapter—where women are not only part of naval aviation but are being prepared for the challenges of high-speed aerial combat and carrier-based fighter operations.

Her achievement also mirrors the progress seen in the Indian Air Force, which opened its fighter stream to women in 2016. Officers like Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth, and Mohana Singh have since flown frontline fighter jets, proving the capabilities of women in high-pressure combat roles. Poonia’s journey adds the Indian Navy to that list of services now embracing women in their most elite fighting units.

Lt Shivangi Singh
Lieutenant Shivangi Singh

Official Recognition and Public Reaction

“Sub Lt Aastha Poonia becomes the first woman to be streamed into the fighter stream of naval aviation—shattering barriers and paving the way for a new era of women fighter pilots in the Navy.”

Her feat generated massive engagement on social media. The Navy’s post on X (formerly Twitter), featuring the hashtag #NariShakti, went viral, with thousands hailing her as a role model. Defence experts and veterans praised the move as a progressive leap for India’s armed forces.

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A Symbol of ‘Nari Shakti’ and Naval Modernization

Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia’s induction into the fighter stream of the Indian Navy is not just a personal triumph but a significant step aligned with several key national initiatives. Her achievement exemplifies the spirit of Nari Shakti, showcasing the growing strength and visibility of women in India’s defence forces. By taking on a combat role traditionally dominated by men, she reinforces the message that women are equally capable of serving on the frontlines.

This milestone also resonates with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, as it reflects India’s efforts to harness its full human resource potential, promote inclusive growth, and build a more self-reliant defence structure. Empowering women in combat roles is a vital aspect of developing a robust and diverse armed forces ecosystem.

Furthermore, her induction aligns with the goals of Maritime India Vision 2030, which aims to establish India as a global maritime leader. As the Navy modernizes and expands its capabilities, integrating women into core operational roles is a forward-looking move that enhances both combat readiness and institutional credibility. Aastha Poonia’s success could serve as a catalyst for broader reforms, paving the way for more women to take on combat responsibilities in the Navy.

What Lies Ahead?

Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia will now undergo a year-long advanced fighter training course, which will further sharpen her skills and prepare her for operational deployment. Upon successful completion and certification, she is likely to be assigned to a MiG-29K squadron—India’s premier carrier-based fighter platform. This could see her operating from frontline assets like the INS Vikrant or other key naval air stations, becoming an active part of India’s expanding maritime air power. Her trailblazing achievement is expected to inspire many more women to follow in her footsteps, opening the door for greater female representation in combat aviation and accelerating the Indian Navy’s journey toward gender parity in its fighting forces.

Conclusion

Sub Lt Aastha Poonia’s historic feat as the first female fighter pilot of the Indian Navy is more than a personal triumph—it’s a national moment of pride. Her journey from a BTech graduate to a combat aviator is a powerful symbol of transformation in India’s military landscape. As she dons the Wings of Gold and prepares to take the skies in a MiG-29K, she sends a clear message: the sky is no longer the limit for Indian women in uniform.

Cochin Shipyard Signs Strategic MoU with South Korea’s KSOE for Global Maritime Collaboration

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Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has entered into a significant partnership with South Korea’s HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co. Ltd. (KSOE), one of the world’s leading shipbuilding groups, through the signing of a long-term Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on shipbuilding and maritime development.

The MoU outlines a broad framework for strategic cooperation between the two companies across various domains. It includes joint exploration of newbuilding opportunities in India and overseas markets, sharing of advanced technical expertise to meet global standards, and initiatives to enhance productivity and optimize capacity utilization.

Additionally, the agreement emphasizes joint efforts in workforce upskilling, which is seen as a vital step toward modernizing India’s shipbuilding sector. The partnership will also explore potential collaborations in other shipbuilding-related areas to strengthen India’s maritime infrastructure.

KSOE is the parent company of some of the world’s largest shipyards, including Hyundai Heavy Industries, Hyundai Mipo Dockyard, and Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries. Its collaboration with CSL is expected to bring world-class practices and technological advancements to Indian shipyards.

This development is aligned with the Government of India’s Maritime India Vision 2030, which envisions transforming India into a global maritime hub through infrastructure modernization, international collaboration, and sustainable growth.

2 Air Force Personnel Drown in Bhimtal Lake as Heavy Rains Lash Uttarakhand

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As relentless rains continue to batter Uttarakhand, two Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel tragically drowned in Bhimtal lake, Nainital district, while vacationing with their colleagues. The deceased have been identified as Prince Yadav (22) from Pathankot, Punjab, and Sahil Kumar (23) from Muzaffarpur, Bihar.

According to Circle Officer Pramod Shah, the duo was part of a group of eight IAF personnel, including four women, who were on a leisure trip to the region. The incident occurred as the group entered the swollen Musatal lake near Chafi village. Locals, along with police and SDRF personnel, struggled for nearly an hour to retrieve the bodies.

The drowning incident comes amid torrential monsoon rains that have wreaked havoc across Uttarakhand. Over 109 roads remain blocked due to landslides and waterlogging. The Chardham Yatra has been severely impacted, with the Yamunotri and Kedarnath highways rendered impassable due to debris and road collapses.

A massive landslide at Silai bend on the Yamunotri route swept away shelters for construction workers, leaving nine missing and destroying a 12-metre road segment. Similarly, the Kedarnath route is blocked between Sonprayag and Gaurikund.

Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to review the situation. Dhami, in a post on X, stated that Central agencies like the NDRF and ITBP are being mobilized to restore travel and provide relief.

Elsewhere, the Badrinath highway has been blocked by falling boulders, while multiple rivers — including the Ganga, Alaknanda, Mandakini, and Bhagirathi — are in spate, flowing just below danger marks. Alerts are being issued to residents near riverbanks, especially in Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Uttarkashi, and Pithoragarh.

In Barkot, a lake formed by the overflowing Yamuna river has started inundating nearby homes and hotels. The administration has deployed excavators to unclog the lake outlet and prevent further flooding.

Meanwhile, food shortages have begun in Uttarkashi’s Geeth area due to the blocked Yamunotri highway. Local leaders are urging authorities to ensure the supply of essential goods to remote villages.

In Dehradun, severe waterlogging at Prince Chawk and near Doon Hospital has added to the city’s woes. The meteorological department has forecast continued rainfall across the region in the coming days, prompting officials to remain on high alert.

Indian Navy Showcases Safety Breakthroughs at 8th Annual Review in Kochi

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The Indian Navy conducted its 8th Annual Safety Review (ASR-25) at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi from July 2-3, unveiling a series of groundbreaking safety innovations aimed at bolstering operational and functional readiness.

The centerpiece of this year’s review was the launch of the Safety Trend Analysis Tool (STAT), a predictive analytics system developed in collaboration with the Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N). Leveraging big data and trend mapping, STAT is designed to forecast potential safety incidents before they occur — a capability shown in global industries to reduce injury rates by up to 20%.

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Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Vice Chief of Naval Staff and an expert in communication and electronic warfare, presided over the review. Known for spearheading the Indian Navy Safety Team (INST), Vice Admiral Swaminathan reiterated the Navy’s shift from reactive to proactive safety practices, emphasizing the need for foresight and data-driven interventions in operational environments.

A major outcome of ASR-25 was the release of a detailed compendium on safety and risk management. This document consolidates standard operating procedures, best practices, and lessons learned, promoting a unified safety culture across naval commands. Studies show that such institutional efforts can improve mission success rates by as much as 30% in high-risk environments.

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The event also facilitated high-level discussions among senior officers and safety experts on integrating new technologies, refining training protocols, and overcoming practical challenges in day-to-day naval operations.

The Indian Navy’s continued focus on safety and resilience demonstrates its commitment to not only safeguarding personnel and assets, but also maintaining operational superiority in the maritime domain.

Lt Gen Vijay B Nair Reviews Security Readiness in South Kashmir

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Lieutenant General Vijay B Nair, Chief of Staff of the Northern Command, conducted a crucial visit to South Kashmir on Thursday to review the security architecture and operational readiness of frontline units under the Chinar Corps. The visit included comprehensive briefings on prevailing security dynamics along the Line of Control (LoC) and internal security challenges in the region.

During the visit, Lt Gen Nair interacted with troops deployed in forward areas, commending their unwavering commitment, professionalism, and morale. He emphasized the need for continuous operational alertness, robust training, and flexibility to counter emerging threats.

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He also reviewed technological advancements being employed by the Army, particularly AI-based surveillance tools and integrated sensor systems, which are proving vital in enhancing situational awareness and counter-infiltration efforts.

This visit comes amid a period of heightened vigilance in Kashmir, following a series of successful operations by the Chinar Corps that led to the neutralization of terror threats and dismantling of insurgent networks in recent months.

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Lt Gen Nair’s presence and guidance were seen as a morale booster for the troops operating in challenging terrain and high-risk zones. His emphasis on adaptability and technological integration underscores the Army’s evolving approach to modern hybrid warfare.

The Northern Command, restructured in 1972 to oversee India’s sensitive borders with both Pakistan and China, plays a pivotal role in strategic military operations. This inspection follows an earlier review conducted by the Vajra Division on July 3, demonstrating a sustained focus on ensuring high readiness levels across commands.

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Lt Gen Nair, a seasoned officer and alumnus of the NDA and IMA, has extensive experience in counter-insurgency and high-altitude operations. His leadership continues to inspire confidence in India’s capacity to defend its interests and maintain peace in Jammu and Kashmir.

Indian Army Unveils Futuristic Modernisation Plan, Calls for Industry Collaboration

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The Indian Army has rolled out an ambitious modernisation roadmap aimed at transforming its combat capabilities for next-generation warfare. The announcement was made by Lieutenant General Amardeep Singh Aujla, Master General Sustenance, at the “New Age Military Technologies: Industry Capabilities & Way Forward” conference organised by FICCI.

Lt Gen Aujla emphasized that the Army’s vision is centered on unprecedented collaboration between the military, policymakers, and private industry to accelerate innovation and self-reliance in defence technologies.

At the forefront of this plan is the development of cutting-edge hypersonic platforms, including hypersonic glide vehicles, air-breathing engines, and advanced generation missiles that aim to fundamentally shift the deterrence landscape. “We want to change the deterrence equation with ultra-fast and highly manoeuvrable weapon systems,” he said.

Precision-guided munitions (PGMs), loitering munitions, and directed energy weapons such as high-energy lasers and microwave systems will also form part of the Army’s enhanced strike and defence capabilities, particularly in counter-drone and anti-satellite roles.

Recognising the importance of digital dominance, the Army is also prioritising offensive and defensive cyber warfare, electronic warfare capabilities, and autonomous systems to secure spectrum and satellite communications.

The roadmap places significant focus on soldier-centric upgrades. Plans include exoskeletons, smart body armour, human augmentation, and AI-powered wearable tech like helmets and real-time health monitors, designed to improve agility, resilience, and operational endurance.

To support these capabilities, the Army is revamping its logistics and supply chain systems through AI, machine learning, blockchain, and IoT technologies, aiming for cyber-resilient, efficient, and sustainable operational frameworks.

Lt Gen Aujla urged policymakers to accelerate defence innovation through dedicated funds, streamlined procurement policies, and the creation of tech hubs and incubators. He called for a clear alignment of roles among the military, industry, and government to turn strategic vision into reality.

“We must move beyond slogans. Without a supportive environment, atmanirbharta will remain a catchphrase,” he cautioned, urging for meaningful and measurable collaboration to make India a leader in modern warfare technologies.

Amit Shah Inspires NDA Cadets During Visit to National Defence Academy

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Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the National Defence Academy (NDA) today, delivering a powerful address to the future leaders of India’s armed forces. The visit was marked by ceremonial traditions, high-level interactions, and a strong message of national service and resilience.

Speaking in the majestic halls of the NDA, Shah emphasized the cadets’ vital role in protecting India’s sovereignty and maintaining its territorial integrity. He praised their commitment, discipline, and patriotism, encouraging them to carry forward the ideals of courage, unity, and selfless service.

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The event also included a ceremonial presentation of a commemorative plaque to the Home Minister by senior military officers, symbolizing the enduring partnership between India’s civilian leadership and its defence establishment.

Shah’s visit came at a historic juncture for the academy, following the graduation of the first batch of 17 female cadets during the 148th passing-out parade on May 29, 2025. This milestone marks a significant transformation in the NDA’s legacy, aligning with broader efforts toward gender inclusion and modernization across the Indian Armed Forces.

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Founded on December 7, 1954, the NDA remains the world’s first tri-service military academy, jointly training cadets of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. With 18 squadrons and a growing intake of cadets each year, the academy continues to evolve as a cradle of military leadership.

During his address, Shah referenced the recent Operation Sindoor, calling it a “finest example” of India’s military resolve. Though specific operational details remain classified, Shah lauded the mission as a testament to the nation’s defence readiness and technological prowess.

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Vice-Admiral Gurcharan Singh, Commandant of the NDA, echoed Shah’s sentiments, highlighting the unwavering dedication of the cadets and the academy’s mission to instill values that transcend the battlefield.