Colonel Tej Dalal is a retired Indian army officer with an illustrious military career, he had completed his schooling from the Rashtriya Military Academy, Belgaum and is an alumnus of the prestigious Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, from where he was commissioned into a logistics unit. He was attached to the infantry with the Rajput Regiment and commanded a post near Doklam. The interviewee has also served in the Army Ordnance Corps (AOC) where he had commanded two units. He had been on deputation with the Assam Rifles, under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), for more than 3 years. During his deputation to the Assam Rifles, he served as a member of the Police Modernisation Committee at MHA.
Retired Army officer Colonel Tej Dalal is an expert in military issues and has written extensively for leading defence portals and print publications
Q1: What role do you believe the media plays in today’s information warfare scenario and in creating public perceptions?
The media has a big role in creating public awareness and opinion, due to its reach. However, it can act as a double-edged weapon, if not used intelligently or with lack of knowledge.
Q2: Do you feel that the Indian media truly understands the technical intricacies and sensitivity of armed conflict?
There are very few journalists and reporters who have a defence background or knowledge. Their reporting thus is driven by what the public wants to hear or see, which at most times is very frustrating to a well-meaning soldier.
Q3: Despite India having a volatile neighbourhood, externally abetted infiltration, three active insurgencies and a proxy war scenario, requiring a detailed understanding why do you think there are a lack of dedicated reporters and adequate training centres/ programmes for conflict reporting?
Our media is not independent. It is perhaps financially dependent on groups, whose sole aim is not facts, but financial gains. Thus, they tend to exploit the unaware public and gain viewership by sensational; reporting.
Q4: Do you think the Indian media is insensitive toward problems faced by service members? Do you feel that their grievances are not adequately highlighted?
Media reports what its masters want them to report. The media rarely reports factual grievances of soldiers. It flows with the tide. If a disgruntled soldier reports anything, that gets highlighted, without even checking facts.
The BSF jawan cribbing about the food, when in fact the scale of a jawan’s ration is very good. His problems may have been something else. But, instead of finding facts, the media became judgemental. The Media does not investigate but only reports.
Q5: Do you feel that the media operates irresponsibly in conflict zones? Or reporting on conflict zones?
Yes, when they have no knowledge about the military and its operations, it will happen. It is not reporting for a football or cricket match. Here lives and morale is involved.
Q7: To what level in your opinion, does the government pressurise journalists in conflict zones, try to suppress or otherwise sanitise reports of armed conflict in India?
I cannot answer on behalf of the Govt. But sometimes reporting may not be appropriate, during an operation. As in the Mumbai case, the terrorists were being guided by live reporting by our media. Such reporting must be sanitised.
Q8: How has your experience with the media been in your Military career?
I only saw the media on a ceremonial function.
Q9: What is your perspective that certain sections of the media are becoming mouthpieces of the army?
The Army does not require mouthpieces. It carries out its job and moves on. Even in natural calamities, the Army never goes public on media to highlight its achievements. Most of the time its credit is taken by politicians or the police or some such organisation.
Q10: what shortcomings or grievances in the military would you want the media to highlight?
The life of a soldier must be correctly reflected. Peace does not mean no work for a soldier. The training of a soldier, the hardships faced by the family, the problems of frequent moves, the hardships faced in their operations, the lack of facilities like market, medical, transport etc in Field areas. Instead of showing these problems, the media only shows that they have Canteen and Sahayak facilities, which must be taken away. Has anyone from the media tried to find out what is the truth? That many a times Canteen items are more expensive than the sale items in the market, that a Sahayak is the officers assistant during war and battle, that it is nothing in comparison to what an IAS or IPS or a Minister have. Every movie shows that a soldier lives in big bungalows, has many servants, drinks and dances all the time. This is nowhere near the truth. The public perception is formed based on what media presents.
Q11: What remedial measures do you propose to improve military-media relations? What’s the way forward?
A media reporter must have knowledge about a game or fashion or constitution or law to report on these subjects. But, requires no knowledge when reporting about the military, whether in peace or war. The Media Industry must have some course on Military History or Military Warfare at one of the Military Institutions. It must also encompass a short attachment with troops, to learn about their functioning. Only such qualified reporters must be permitted to report.
With the shocking discovery of 80 Kilograms of sophisticated military-style weapons being airdropped by the Pakistani Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones) into the Punjab border on 22 September, it is vital to know about the core branches of the Islamabad’s secret service responsible for such operations on Indian soil. Pakistani intelligence has three core branches responsible for waging a dirty war on India.
What Is The ISI? Who Heads It And Where Does It Draw Its Manpower From?
The Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is Pakistan’s premier external intelligence agency. The ISI is on similar lines with India’s Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), America’s Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), British Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) and the Israeli Mossad. The Pakistani spy agency is headquartered in Islamabad. The secretive organisation is headed by a Director General (DG) who is usually a Lieutenant General rank officer of the Pakistan Army.
The DG of the ISI is aided by three senior military officers who are designated as Deputy Director Generals (DDG). The premier Pakistani spook outfit is over 25,000 personnel strong, drawing a majority of its manpower from the Pakistani police force, paramilitary, and Special Operations Forces (SOF) from the Pakistani military.
The Three Main Branches Of The ISI
Operations Branch
Female Pakistani Police Commandos training for combat operations
The Operations Branch of the ISI is the core branch responsible for Intelligence gathering and imparting intelligence training to recruits and assets. The bulk of the Pakistani secret service’s operations planning, target selection and overall intel strategy is planned and executed by personnel from the Ops branch. This division of the ISI has been notorious for its regular coordination with terrorist groups, to coordinate well-planned attacks on Indian soil. The operations branch have a steady supply of non-state actors willing to wage what they call a jihad against non-belivers. These groups allow Pakistani intelligence to wage a drawn-out dirty war against India while maintaining plausible deniability.
Pakistans Special Services Group forms the Paramilitary arm of the ISI
Logistics Branch
Seized assault weapons in Kashmir
All insurgencies require arms and ammunitions to survive. The ISI’s logistics department is the division responsible for keeping the flow of arms running. They make sure foreign back terrorists and domestic insurgents are always stocked with superior firepower. Personnel from this division procure the assault weapons and munitions required by extremist groups to wage their ‘Jihad’. The logistics personnel of the ISI maintain close working relations with illegal arms dealers around the world and have developed some of the most sophisticated illicit arms networks in the intelligence world.
Arms smugglers nabbed by Jammu and Kashmir police
PsyOps Branch
ISI sponsored online radicalisation has become a major security challenge
ISI’s PysOps professionals run a sophisticated operation. These operatives with the help of paid or oblivious media professionals, academics, religious teachers have successfully radicalised nearly an entire generation of Kashmiri youth. This nefarious ISI-Media-Insurgent network has led to the establishment of a lucrative domestic terror recruitment base within the country by leveraging mass media platforms, thereby magnifying both genuine and staged voices of dissent. The ISI has been known to broadcast radical messages on border radio frequencies, print seditious literature for their distribution in schools, have a network of religious teachers indoctrinating youth coming for theological education in Madrassas.
Stone pelting mobs have been effective at hinder COIN OPS
There were over 300 Pakistan based WhatsApp groups being operated in early 2019 with the sole purpose of mobilising stone pelters, students and unarmed civilians to disrupt Counter insurgency operations. This highly competent wing of the ISI has become a thorn in the side of Indian security forces, even more so since the repeal of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution.
The youth have been subjected to anti-Indian narratives
One Chance Is All It Takes
The ISI has proven its self to be a deadly adversary, with the intelligence organisation working to bleed India by a thousand cuts for over three decades. It is imperative for Indian security and intelligence organisations to effectively tackle the security challenges imposed by Islamabad so that the nefarious organisation cannot further their ill-intended designs after all one chance is all it takes for the enemy to succeed.
Twelve years ago, on November 26 2008, a group of nine heavily armed men shocked the world after they sailed into the coast of Mumbai, on their rubber dinghies at the iconic Gateway of India, setting foot on Indian soil. From there, they marched into the heart of the city, wreaking organised chaos at their selected targets. They had come with the sole objective of crippling Mumbai’s soul.
26/11 showed us pain, immeasurable human suffering, loss of life and unforgivable vulnerabilities in our security, law enforcement and intelligence infrastructure. The siege lasting three days showed us humanities worst, yet in its own twisted way, managed showcase humanities best and, resilience in the face of unimaginable carnage.
Many heroes were forged from the crucible of human tragedy, from the policemen who first responded to the situation and engaged the fleeing terrorists, with police constable Tukaram Omble successfully apprehending Ajmal Kasab the lone surviving terrorist, at the cost of his life. The employees of the Taj Hotel who despite having multiple opportunities to leave, chose to stay and save the guests, to the staff who went back into the besieged hotel despite managing to escape with their life. The civilian staff at Taj worked tirelessly, at great personal cost to maintain communication with the families of the hostages. These people showed us great character and human resolve despite being under extraordinary circumstances.
A Glimpse Into The Life Of 26/11 Hero Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan
Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan
This is the story of one such hero, Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, Team Commander of the 51 (SAG) of the NSG.
The Mumbai police were the first responders to the unfolding situation. Following the initial police response, it was realised that there was a need for a more equipped contingency and the call was made.
Elite NSG Commandos
The 51 (Special Actions Group) of the National Security Guard, which is the country’s most elite Counter-terrorist unit, was flown in from their station in Maneshwer, a few kilometres from Delhi. Around 220 highly trained commandos were deployed, after being divided into three crack teams. These teams were further divided to undertake various operational responsibilities within the three groups. The NSG team responsible for conducting operations inside Taj was to be led by Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan.
Major Unnikrishnan Displayed The Hallmarks Of An Officer Early On In Life
Sandeep Unnikrishnan was born on March 15, 1977, in Bangalore. His father was a reputed scientist at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The Unnikrishnan’s were initially from the Kozhikode district of Kerala however had settled in Bangalore for a long time. Sandeep started his schooling at the reputed Frank Anthony Public School in Bangalore.
Joining the Indian Army was Sandeep’s childhood dream. His passion was evident through his military-style haircut (crewcut), which he sported throughout his time in school. Sandeep was an ace athlete right from his school days, winning many medals throughout his time at Frank Anthony. Not only renowned as the school athlete the young student was also brilliant in academics and was even a member of his school choir. Till this day Sandeep is remembered by his school authorities as an exceptional singer.
Aerial shot of the NDA Campus
Sandeep’s dream of joining the Army never faded, not even in the slightest. After completing his schooling he had applied to India’s premier tri-services college, the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla, Pune. Clearing both the exam and gruelling five day SSB procedure, he joined the prestigious military academy in 1995 and became a part of the Oscar Squadron in the 94th course of the NDA.
He is fondly remembered as one of the finest cadets the NDA had ever produced. Sandeep’s drill instructors and course mates still remember him as a courageous, generous and selfless human being, who had always put the concern of others before him, something he did till his last breath.
Major Unnikrishnan is remembered as a fine Gentleman Cadet
A Heartwarming Anecdote From A Martyrs Life
An incident his course mates vividly remember from his academy days, gives us a glimpse of his character. The Oscar squadron, as part of an outdoor exercise had been tasked to climb up the Singhaad fort in Pune. The weather was horrible and it was raining profusely. The gentlemen cadets had to climb to the top of the fort and refill their canteens from the natural spring there. Sandeep being a phenomenal physical specimen, was the first to the top. Exhausted, he had bent to fill up his canteen, when the young cadet heard a tourist turn toward him to ask him if he could fill his bottle.
Rigorous training at NDA
Sandeep, despite being fatigued, nearly to the brink of collapsing, happily obliged. Before he could get back to filling his canteen, another tourist approached him with the same request, he happily obliged. Within minutes, all of the tourists who had come to visit the fort collected behind him for water! Sandeep kept smiling and filling their bottles. When all the tourists were finally done, it was time for the squadron to move on or else they would fall behind their schedule. In this entire episode, GC Sandeep never got to fill his canteen. What his coursemates remember to this date is the fact that his smile and compassion did not fade despite having every reason too.
Passing out parade at the Indian Military Academy
He Developed An Expertise In Tracking Terrorists
His kind nature and sense of humour were in total contrast to his persona as a ruthless soldier and officer of the countries most elite counter-terrorist unit. After graduating from the NDA on July 12, 1999, he went for his pre-commission training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun. Following his training in Dehradun, Sandeep was commissioned into the 7th Battalion of the Bihar Regiment. As a freshly minted Lieutenant, the young officer saw combat in Jammu and Kashmir. it was during his stint in the valley did the young officer discover his talent in counter-terrorism. Throughout his deployment, he developed expertise in tracking extremists and leading counter-terror operations.
Part Of Operation Vijay
An iconic picture from Operation Vijay
Sandeep was a part of the iconic ‘Operation Vijay’ during the Kargil conflict, which was launched to take out Pakistani Army and paramilitary intruders who had crossed into Indian territory. The young Bihar regiment officer was in charge of setting up a forward post approximately 200 metres away from enemy lines; this high-risk task to be accomplished in the face of heavy artillery shelling and small arms fire by the Pakistani side. His daredevil actions in Kargil was a cornerstone in his military career. Reviewing his record and expertise in the field combined with his performance at the Commando Scool in Belgaum, the young but battle-hardened was shortlisted to join the elite National Security Guard.
Major Unnikrishnan was placed into the Special Actions Groups which is the cutting edge of the black cats. The 51 SAG draws exclusively from the Army. Sandeep became an elite counter-terror operator in 2007 and dove right into the thick of active operations.
Got Called Into Action In Just 90 Days Of Being Inducted Into The NSG
Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan received his most important call to duty on the night of November 27 2008, only 90 days after taking over the unit. The 51 SAG of the NSG arrived at Mumbai, to rescue the hostages and neutralise the terrorists.
NSG Commando’s performed one of the worlds most sensitive Counter-terror operations (Picture Courtesy Pravin Talan)
The Taj Operations were highly complex, as no special operations rescue mission in the last three decades involved more than a thousand rooms. Every single room could have had the possibility of having a hostage, a terrorist, both or none. A ‘hostile room breach’, an unviable option, as it involved breaching the door throwing a flash or concussion grenade, then opening fire in that room to eliminate hostiles. Such a tactical manoeuvre would put the hostages in danger. Thus, the whole operation had to rely on split-second tactical decisions, which put the team at risk.
NSG Commando emerging from the shadows (Picture courtesy Pravin Talan)
The NSG was sent into the operation blind without adequate pieces of critical intelligence such as the hotel layout, floorplans, AC duct capacity or location of the terrorists, hostages. Being a leader of an intervention unit, the lack of such intel was dangerous for the team, in fact, it was a nightmare at the tactical level. To add to the complications was the facts that the NSG had until then only trained for single operations. However, during the Mumbai attacks, there was a need for three simultaneous operations. To add to the complication was the fact the commandos only had the equipment profile, communication, command and control structure of only one operation. For an operation involving 1000 plus rooms, the commando’s had to go in with their hands tied.
Active NSG operations during the Mumbai attacks
Major Unnikrishnan was tasked to lead one of the three teams. His team was responsible for rescuing the hostages and eliminating the threat at the Taj Hotel. The Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists had taken most of the hotel staff and guests as hostages, using hotels many rooms to their tactical advantage. Major Unnikrishnan and his team stormed into the building and took up fighting positions. As Major Unnikrishans team searched the hotel lobby, they saw corpses littered all over the floor. Major Unnikrishnan realised that the terrorists had moved up and had taken up posts on the upper floors.
Major Unnikrishnan and his team of ten commandos acknowledging the immediate threat to their lives marched right up the staircase, ascending to the top of the hotel in a tactical manner. Sandeep felt a presence, immediately after setting foot on the third floor, The counter-terrorist teams started combing the rooms. They suddenly heard the sound of whispering coming from a cabin. The commandos realised that the three terrorists were hiding behind the door with civilian hostages.
Commandos preparing to breach
The quick-thinking officer formulated a plan and breached, but the moment the team crashed through the door the terrorists opened fire on the commandos. Sandeep’s teammate and buddy Sunil Yadav was greiviouly injured in the ensuing exchange of automatic fire. Without thinking twice Major Unnikrishnan jumped in front of his friend, giving the other commandos the required cover to escort him out of the line of fire. The terrorists capitalised on thIS opportunity and fled from the room. Major Unnikrishnan made sure Commando Yadav was evacuated and then proceeded to go after the militants, who had gone up the stairs to strengthen their positions.
Commandos slithering to take back Taj
Like a man possessed the NSG officer chased them to the next floor! He spotted one of the terrorists running towards a hiding place, The Commando charged at the terrorist and opened fired, the terrorist too returned a hail of fire at Major Unnikrishnan. During this fierce exchange, another militant who was the first to climb up the staircase managed sneaked up behind Major Unnikrishnan, and violently unloaded an entire cartridge of automatic rifle fire on Sandeep. Major Unnikrishnan knowing that he wont make it held on for a few more seconds, managing to severely wound both the terrorists. The NSG officer was rapidly losing blood, lost grip over his rifle and eventually succumbed to his injuries.
A glimpse of the chaos at Taj
The NSG neutralised all the terrorists in Taj Hotel, Oberoi Hotel and Trident Hotel, there was not a single civilian casualty after they started to conduct their operations. Operation black thunder as the NSG operation was called, is widely regarded to be one of the world’s most successful counter-terrorist operations in the world, such that 29 elite units from across the globe have trained alongside the NSG to understand how they executed the mission despite the logistical and intel difficulties.
Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s parents standing beside a picture of their son
Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan was posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award on January 26, 2009. The Special Operation officer was the first officer from the NSG to lose his life in the line of duty. His dedicated service to the nation has over the past decade inspired many young men to join the services.
Conquering Mount Everest, the worlds highest peak is the dream of every professional mountaineer. Summiting this behemoth of a mountain peak requires nerves of steel, superhuman will and out of this world physical conditioning. Despite years of rigorous and dedicated training, Everest has put even the toughest and most accomplished mountaineers to their knees and, on many unfortunate instances to their untimely grave.
Indian Army personnel are deployed in Siachen Glacier which is the Worlds highest battlefield (Picture Courtesy Praveen Khanna)
For the Indian Army, however, the risk to life and limb is just another day at the office, with courage being in ample supply! Officers of this remarkable institution are some of the unique individuals in the country. These men and women are known for their indomitable spirit, laser-like focus and the relentlessness required to accomplish the task at hand aggressively, often at high personal cost! So, it should come as no surprise that many officers of the Indian Army have summited Mount Everest, in several instances on multiple occasions.
The worlds highest peak, Mount Everest
3 Army Officers Who Have Summited Mount Everest
1.) Colonel Ranveer Singh Jamwal
Colonel Jamwal hoisting both the National Indian Army’s flag following a successful summit
Colonel Ranveer Singh Jamwal is a renowned army officer whose exploits genuinely showcase the spirit of adventure that is engrained in the army’s culture. Colonel Jamwal has successfully summited seven of the worlds highest peaks, scaling Mount Everest not once, but thrice! The army officer had his first experience with mountaineering in 2003 when he was inducted for mandatory training at the High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) in Sonemarg, Jammu and Kashmir.
Colonel Jamwal being awarded for a successful expedition by Army Chief Bipin Rawat
It was during his training there, did he first encounter a vertical rockface, which was 5,000 metres in height. Colonel Jamwaal has come a long way since scaling 5,000-metre rock surfaces at HAWS, successfully leading the Indian Army’s all-woman Everest expedition in 2012 as a Lieutenant Colonel. He has been awarded the Tenzing Norgay award for adventure for his daring exploits. The distinguished Indian army officer is a rescue specialist and was extensively involved in rescue and relief operations during the Nepal earthquake in 2015 during which over 9,000 people lost their lives. His expertise in rescue operations combined with his world-class mountaineering acumen, helped save many lives during the disaster.
Colonel (Major at the time) Being conferred the Tenzing Norgay award by former President Pranab Mukherjee
2.) Colonel Saurabh Singh Shekhawat
A still from a Times Now feature on the PARA SF, showcasing Colonel SS Shekhawat firing an Israeli Tavor rifle
Colonel SS Shekhawat is a personality of his own and needs no introduction to our readers! But for those who have been living under a rock, Colonel Shekhawat is the Commanding officer of the uber elite 21 Para Special Forces, the crack commando unit specialising in jungle warfare. Beyond that Colonel Shekhawat has earned the distinction of being the most decorated serving officer in the Indian Army, having been awarded the Kirti Chakra, Shuarya Chakra, Sena Medal and Vishist Sena Medal for his meritious service as a special operator.
Red Devil’s are born for adventure!
He is admired in the military and special forces communities for his humility, leadership and tactical acumen, his textbook execution of the complex Loktak Lake operation is the stuff of legend. Being a true officer, he is known to regularly train and break bread with his boys, despite being a Colonel rank officer. Other than being a battle-hardened Special Forces leader, he is an avid mountaineer. Colonel Shekhawat has summited 17 of the highest mountains and has successfully conquered Everest three times in his military career.
A still from Wildfilms India documenting the Commando’s Everest expedition
3.) Colonel Narendra ‘Bull’ Kumar
Black and white photograph of Colonel Narendra Kumar
Colonel Kumar spearheaded the operation which gave India the strategic Siachen
Colonel Narendra Kumar, known as Bull Kumar in army circles, is a man of many legends, he spearheaded the hair raising operation which gave India the strategic Siachen Glacier. Colonel Kumar is a specialist in mountain warfare and headed the Indian army’s internationally renowned High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS). Beyond his expertise in Mountain warfare, he has won international accolades by the mountaineering community for his high altitude mountaineering expeditions. Colonel Kumar lost four of his toes to frostbite during an expedition in 1961! Despite his apparent handicap, the gallant officer went on to become the first Indian Army officer to summit both Nanda Devi in 1964 and Mount Everest in 1965.
Colonel Kumar meeting with the Indian head of state
For the bull, summiting Everest despite his loss of toes was not enough. He had gone on to attempt scaling Mount Kancheganga from its northeastern face which is far more challenging and fraught with risks. The British Alpine Journal wrote about Colonel Kumar’s Kancheganga achievement writing that it was “far more difficult than the Everest attempt.” The legendary army man was a life long friend of the iconic Nepali mountaineer Tenzing Norgay, who was the first mountaineer to summit Everest and the man under whose name the most prestigious adventure award is conferred. Bull has risked his life around twenty times solely for the spirit of adventure by going into the ‘oxygen-depleted fatal zone’ above 8,000 metres.
Colonel Bull Kumar during a mountaineering expedition
a now-retired Colonel Kumar explaining the Siachen operation
It’s unsurprising that given Colonel Kumar’s contributions to mountain warfare and mountaineering expeditions he is one of the Indian army’s most decorated officers. He is the only Colonel rank of the Indian Army to be awarded the Param Vishist Seva Medal for exceptional services to the nation. He has also been awarded the Athi Vishist Seva Medal, Kirti Chakra (for valour), and the Arjuna award for sports. Colonel Kumar is a recipient of the Padmashri and the prestigious McGregor award by the United Services Institution, for excellence in military reconnaissance, exploration and survey. Colonel Kumar is the definition of undying dedication to duty and passion towards one’s craft. He is a patriot in every sense of the word.
Janardhan Pagar has always wanted to serve the nation in uniform, initially hell-bent on joining the Indian army as a jawan. His mentors assessing his leadership abilities counselled him to give officer grade exams. He went on to give both the National Defence Academy and Combined Defence Services exams, clearing the latter. However, despite scoring considerably high in the written examination, he fell short during his Services Selection Board and was not recommended. Following a streak of soul-crushing failures at the SSB, he was advised by a candidate, selected to join the Central Armed Police Forces, to give the CAPF a shot. He considered the suggestion and split his energy, focusing on preparing for both the CDSE and the CAPF examination, clearing the Assistant Commandant exam, in his third attempt. He breezed past his interview, getting recommended to Join the Indo Tibetian Border Police.
ITBP troopers with AK’s
Pagar, who is currently working as a security supervisor at Air India, is scheduled to go for his training in Mussorie. The future Himalayan Veer is ready to tackle the challenges of being an ITBP officer and wanted to do his part by sharing his experiences to candidates looking to serve in the CAPF.
Janardhan Pagar standing outside the Union Public Service Commission building
Q: What was your motivation to join the Central Armed Police Forces? For most aspirants looking to serve in uniform, the Defence Services are their primary choice, was it the case for you?
Yes, you are right, I was a hardcore army aspirant and, had cleared the CDSE exam scoring far higher than the declared cutoff. However, I fell significantly short at the Service Selection Board. After being rejected, I went back to my preparation, and it was during this time a recommended CAPF candidate suggested that I simultaneously prepare for the Assistant Commandant exam for the CAPF. He went on to tell me that the CAPF lacks motivated officers to lead their troops and, that they too have been tirelessly serving the country at considerable risk to life and limb, yet they remain unsung. Moved by what he told me and realising the unpredictability of the SSB, with my age soon to exceed the CDS parametres, I decided that I would recalibrate my efforts to becoming an Assistant Commandant in the CAPF.
CAPF passing out parade
Q: How did you go about studying for the exam? Break down your preparation for the first paperfor the benefit of our readers.
For the first paper, I relied extensively on NCERT and IAS books. For ancient history, I primarily referred to 12th standard RS Sharma NCERT and the Arihant Magbook. I went through the Arihant Magbook of modern India and the Spectrum brief history of India for preparing Modern history. For additional preparation, you should go through NCERT 6th to 12th standard. You must engrain the vital topics such as the revolt of 1857, significant movements, for instance, the Quit India Movement,Important acts during British rule in India. Questions from these topics come in every exam both CAPF and CDSE, including NDA. For these crucial topics, you should ideally refer to Bipin Chandra’s books.
Study material
For geography, I bifurcated my preparation between Physical geography and Indian geography. So for physical geography, I referred to ‘PhysicalGeography’ by Savinder Singh. Both the new and old 12 standard NCERT books are required reads. Mrunal’s geography videos and the Oxford Student Atlas for India are also helpful. For the segments focusing on Indian Geography, I studied 11th standard NCERT and the Periyar publication book on Indian Geography. For particular topics say for instance resources, agriculture, mines and minerals, you could refer to Khullar. K.S Siddharth is indispensable for answering Mapping questions. Laxmikant is the go-to book for polity! You must quite literally photographically remember every page! I heavily neglected Economics, and this cost me an entire attempt. So for this subject, I would recommend 11th and 12th NCERT and the last few chapters of Shankar’s IAS book. I did my Current Affairs preparation by going through the Hindu Newspaper, furthermore, I subscribed to GK Magazine, a lower-cost alternative is the News and Events magazine, it should not cost you more than fifteen rupees. For my science preparation, I referred to Magbook and CDS pathfinder.
Q: How did you prepare for the second paper?
My first barrier was the English language, being a future Himalayan veer, this was my first Himalaya! To overcome my significant lack of English communication skills, I devised a systematic exam-specific approach to improving my language. I voraciously read the Hindu newspaper, focusing on both current affairs and literature simultaneously. Furthermore, I practised English writing until my arms gave in and then some more! The descriptive essay is a significant portion of the Assistant Commandant exam, so for this segment, I focused on what type of vocabulary will be best suited for this leg of the paper.
The Hindu is an indispensable tool for UPSC preparation
Other than writing, I practised my oratory skills for hours in front of a mirror. It is essential to understand that the second paper is modelled along similar lines as the UPSC civil services exams. Given the nearly same exam pattern, I referred to the same online material studied by IAS and IPS aspirants. The website Insights on India became a staple part of my overall preparation. The IAS preparation site has a section called Mind Maps, where they publish potential essay topics. I would then spend the rest of the day extensively researching the given topics and write two essays by the end of the day. I would also develop easy to remember pointers for all current affairs and national interest topic, which I could further elaborate on if asked in the exam. I cannot stress the importance of reading the Hindu newspaper enough. It is simply the most important resource for any UPSC exam.
Q: Time is a crucial factor in the second paper, so how did you manage your time efficiently?
I faced no time-related issue. Time management is inherent to my nature. You will find it interesting to know that I gave all three of my attempts without wearing a watch in the exam hall. I knew exactly how much importance and time to give to each section and where to focus my attention. Firstly, in my opinion, it is never wise to start with the essay, you will exhaust you before attempting grammar so keep it for the end. For the essay which is usually 300-words, it is better to wrap up your piece within 250. Word economy is key! A candidate must complete the length and breadth of the entire paper, even missing 2 to 3 marks in a competitive exam will cost you a year! So, to summerise:
Prepare pointers
Speed and selection of what questions to answer first is crucial
Focus on your strengths
Word economy is key
Analyse paper strengths
Do not be that guy who goes to give the paper without a plan!
Time management is crucial, it may cost you an entire attempt
Q: CAPF is seldom any candidates first choice! A bulk of the candidates who give the exam are civil service aspirants as the syllabus is roughly the same. So, given the reality that the CAPF is simply a civil aspirants backup, would you say that the exam process leads to the induction of poorly motivated officers?
Indeed, the motivation levels of most CAPF officers are notoriously low! A sizable number of officers do not even care much about the job! On the brighter side, this trend is slowly changing. There are more and more candidates joining with the sole purpose of serving in the CAPF. This eagerness to join is primarily due to increasing awareness about the roles and responsibilities of this incredible force. However, even now the bulk of the unformed force constitutes of IAS rejects who want a government job.
ITBP patrolling the unforgiving Himalayas ITBP troopers patrolling the country’s icy frontiers
Q: How would you recommend dedicated CAPF aspirants to go about their preparation, given the fact that their competition will be from far more experienced Civil service aspirants?
Excellent question! Competing with hardcore civil service aspirants was my most significant worry during my preparation! They have far more experience in the exam format. According to me, a CAPF aspirant must prepare like an IAS aspirant! A prospective CAPF officer will have to refer to the same material as their civil counterparts. They must study with the mindset that they are preparing for the IPS or IAS because their competitors are. It is usually them who have higher chances of a clearing; however, with efficient planning and execution, one can always overcome the odds.
Q: With the benefit of hindsight, how could you have prepared more efficiently?
One can always do better; however, to my credit, I have performed exceptionally well in all three of my attempts. My advice would be to maintain consistency, understand the pulse of the examination and then prepare according to your unique strengths! Revise! Revise! Revise! That’s my preparation mantra. Lastly, delete all social media only reactivate it once you have a picture in uniform!
Janardhan currently working as a security supervisor in Air India
Q: In your experience which exam is more academically rigorous CDSE or CAPF?
Academically? CAPF any day! CDSE is challenging no doubt; however, for the defence services, it is primarily about meeting the cutoff is the priority. The SSB is the gamechanger! In the CAPF, the interview is relatively simple. The paper, on the other hand, is far more challenging; you cannot merely meet the cutoff, you have to ace it! At the least, you must get 15 marksabove the cutoff. So simply put, CDSE is interview heavy, CAPF is written exam dominant.
For the defence services the 5 days SSB is the priority
Q: The ITBP is deployed in some of the most arduous terrains, so as a future HimVeer how have you been training physically?
I am mentally prepared. I know that I was destined to be a soldier. You will probably laugh, but I used to imagine myself as a special force commando taking part in solo surgical strikes behind enemy lines. Juvenile, I know! Hahaha! However, I genuinely believe in my ability, put me anywhere, and I shall thrive! As per physical fitness, I am an athletic guy. So coping up at the ITBP academy in Mussorie will not be too much of a challenge, indeed not pleasant, that I am sure of! At the end of the day, you are what you set your mind to. Even Usain Bolt gets tired and wants to puke his guts out. However, he has a clear vision of where he wants to be, and that is why he succeeds. Similarly, I know I am a Himalayan Veer, I may not be wearing the uniform right now, but I will soon earn it.
Training at the ITBP academyITBP commando training
Q: What aspirations do you have as a future Himalayan Veer?
I am honoured, blessed to get an opportunity to train so that I am capable to lead ITBP troopers! I want to enjoy the training first and build myself as a leader, so that I may do justice to the men I will command. Beyond that, I look forward to a life rigour and adventure. I want to prove myself worthy of donning the uniform. A long term goal which I have is to get selected into the elite commando unit the National Security Guard on deputation from the ITBP. Service as a Himveer opens many other doors for me in the domain of national security, for instance through the CAPF there are several opportunities to work in intelligence such as going deputation to the Intelligence Bureau (IB), the National Investigation Agency (NIA), the elite Special Protection Group (SPG) and the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF). So as of now, these are my career aspirations.
ITBP and other CAPF’s can go on deputation to the elite NSG, SPG and Intel agenciesITBP trooper doing yoga at high altitudes
Q: Would you like to give any other message to our readers?
Firstly I would like to say keep following SSBCrack! SSBCrack has helped me a ton in both my preparation for CDSE as well as CAPF! The preparation material, news, exam notifications and motivational stories you guys right truly helps aspirants who have been rejected and inspire them to go on and fight another day! You guys are doing a national service! As per my message, it is simple. Simultaneously prepare for both Defence Services and Central Armed Police Forces. The Indian Army, Navy and Air force are exceptional forces but so are the CAPF’s comprising of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Shastra Seema Bal (SSB), the Indo Tibetian Border Police (ITBP). So if unfortunately, you do not get an opportunity to serve in the tri-services there are many other uniformed forces through which you can fight for the country! So prepare for all possibilities, keep a backup, after all, no plan survives first contact with the enemy! So, work hard, chase your dreams, Jai hind!
Poster of Janardhan in his village for getting selected to join the ITBP
With the AK-203 assault rifle set to replace the ageing INSAS 5.56 mm rifle, ground forces cannot help b let out a sigh of relief. The infamous indigenously designed INSAS rifle was notorious for its host of operational issues, such as frequent cartridge cracking, jamming, to the selector moving to fire full automatic bursts. The rifle was also unable to adequately operate in some of the most arduous topographical environments in which the Indian Soldiers are deployed. The latest edition to the ever-reliable AK series will be the standard issue for all of the three services.
Superior Stopping Power
7.62X39 rounds fed onto an AK series rifle cartridge
The AK-203 comes in a 7.62×39 mm round. The calibre of these rounds will serve to provide the ground troops tremendous stopping power, enhancing their efficiency in combat operations
The Kalishnakov’s AK-203 comes with sturdy magazine design, having a 30 7.62×39 mm round capacity. The assault weapon is capable of firing 600 high powered lethal rounds per minute. Adding to the rifles superior firing rate is AK’s relative accuracy over other assault weapons. This .lethal combination will give the Indian soldier on the ground a significant confidence boost towards his rifle, an invaluable emotion in combat which was lacking with the INSAS.
Rifle Length
Full-length image of the AK-203
The AK-203 has an overall length of 880mm-940mm, the firearm has a collapsible buttstock, reducing the rifles overall length to 705 mm, making it highly manoeuvrable in Close Quarter Battle (CQB)
Image highlighting features of the rifle
Superior Ergonomics and Manoeuvrability
Superior ergonomics aid in weapon retention
Another seemingly simple but crucial feature of the AK-203 is its superior ergonomics, making the rifle extremely comfortable and manoeuvrable to the user. Unlike the overly bulky INSAS which weighed 5 kg with an empty magazine, the AK in comparison is only 4.1kg without ammunition. The difference of one kg makes all the difference in a game where milliseconds matter.
Defence Journalist Manu Pubby checking out the AK-203 rifle
Joint Venture Leading TO Indigenisation
75,000 AK-203 rifles are to be inducted into the services, out of which 40,000 are to be directly imported, while the remaining will be manufactured at the Amethi factory at the Korwa Ordnance Factory Board. The OFB has a 50.5% stake in the projects, while Kalishnikov and Rosoboronexport have stakes of 42% and 7.5% respectively. The joint manufacturing of the AK’s will be concluded with a full technology transfer to India, giving the country the ability to manufacture the highly potent rifle indigenously.
Launch of the AK-203 manufacturing facility in Amethi by PM Narendra Modi
The induction of these rifles will ease the burden of the troops on the ground and will finally be the rifle to phase out one of the least trusted firearms in the services arsenal.
A lone sniper can turn the face of battle, stealthily taking out key military targets with cold-blooded efficiency. These highly trained, mentally equanimous, specialised soldiers embody the military saying of ‘one shot, one kill.’ These ghost warriors are aided by some of the most precise rifles ever created. This article will be highlighting five of the most advanced sniper rifles in the world. The precision rifles highlighted are in no specific order and are only a few of the best rifles designed for long-distance shots.
Digital art depicting a military sniper
1.) The M40 A5 Sniper Rifle
USMC Scout Sniper with the trusted M40
The M40 A5 is the latest addition to the M40 sniper family. This highly sophisticated precision rifle is a favourite among the United States Marine Corps (USMC) Scout Snipers. The deadly accurate sniper rifle is a modified version of the Remington 700 Hunting Rifle. The precision weapon is chambered with .308 Winchester 7.62X51 mm NATO rounds. The A5 variant comes equipped with a Scheider barrel and a Bender Police Marksman 114-16X 50 mm telescopic sight.
Marine Scout Sniper aiming through the telescopic sites
2.) The M-24 Sniper Weapon System
US Army Sniper and Spotter pair armed with an M24 Sniper rifle
Like the M40 A5, the M-24 SWS too is modelled after the famous Remington 700 Hunting Rifle. The rifle is chambered in a .308 Winchester 7.62X51 mm NATO rounds. The precision weapon dates back to 1988 and has since been used extensively by the US army. The rifle features a custom-designed four-inch Remington barrel and comes with Leupold Mark-IV M3 fixed 10X scope.
M24 being fired from prone
3.) The L115 A3 Sniper Rifle System
L115 A3 Sniper rifle image
The L11 5A3 Sniper rifle is a British made precision weapon and has been used extensively by British forces, most notably the British Army, Royal Marines and the Royal Airforce. The L115 A3 shares its ancestry with Accuracy International Arctic Warfare are Super Magnum Rifle. Unlike its American counterparts, the British rifle is chambered with .338 Lapua rounds with a five-round box magazine. The rifle uses the far heavier .338 Lapua round allows the rifle to have far superior range, giving the operator the technical ability to eliminate largest from significantly far distances. It was the L115 A3 rifle which allowed the British marksman to create a world record by eliminating a Taliban machine gun and wounded two others from a distance of 2.27 kilometres.
British soldier aiming armed with an L115 A3 sniper rifle
4.) Barret M82 Sniper Rifle
The Barret anti-material sniper rifle
This rifle made names in history following legendary American sniper Carlos Hathcock, known as the White Feather executed an iconic long-range kill during his time in Vietnam. The shot in question was performed on an M2 Browning Machine Gun. Following this, the Barret firearm company, which is one of the leading firearms companies in the world, developed a .50 calibre M82 anti-material rifle. These rifles are designed to penetrate armoured and concrete structures and are not meant to be used on enemy combatants.
Marine scout sniper training on a Barret M82
5.) Zijiang M99 Sniper Rifle
Chinese snipers firing the M99 on a UN peacekeeping mission
The M99 is the standard issue sniper rifle issued to soldiers of the People’s Liberation Army, China. The M99 is a semi-automatic rifle similar to the Barret M82. The Chinese rifle operates on a gas impingement mechanism and is fed with 12.7X108 mm Soviet-era rounds. This rifle has for reasons largely unknown, have made its way into the hands of insurgents fighting in the Syrian Conflict. Analysts speculate that these precision rifles were delivered from Sudan via Qatar to be used against the Syrian Arab Army.
During the final rounds of human rights debate organised by the Indo Tibetian Border Police under the aegis of the National Human Rights Commission, one fiery speech by a young company commander serving in the country’s elite counter-terrorism unit, the National Security Gaurd’s coveted Special Actions Group, encompassed a combat soldier’s perspective and their personal battle in tackling terrorism and militancy in the valley while ensuring human rights.
A snap from Major Chinmay Nair’s speech
The young NSG commando, Major Chinmay Nair, starts off his speech speaking about India’s troubled neighbourhood, emphasising on the unpredictability of the country’s western neighbour, Pakistan and India’s response to their state-sponsored terrorism with the officer saying, “Any action on their soil will almost surely lead to a full-blown war!” He asks rhetorically how a soldier should deal with terrorism in such delicate situations.
The officer cites Fact sheet number 32 which has been issued by the office of the High Commissioner of the United Nations Human Rights Commission in the year 1994. The United Nations General Assembly had a declaration in which they elaborated on what constitutes terrorism. Quoting the General Assembly’s verdict, Major Nair says, “Terrorism is also all those criminal acts which are designed to provoke or incite terror in public for political reasons, they cannot be justified even for any ethnic, political, Ideological reasons.”
Highlighting the audience on what the UN constitutes as terrorism, the officer goes on to speak about the “People we deal with every day in Jammu and Kashmir.” The battle-hardened commando says with fierce conviction, “They burn buses, they force innocent school children to join their cause, they pelt stones on security forces!” He goes on to say, “Each and everything about these acts come under the purview of the very definition of terrorism, that is provided by the United Nations!”
The young NSG commando asks the audience about a soldier’s rights
“So, let us make it clear that these are not innocent civilians that we are dealing with on a day to day basis,” declares the elite commando. He goes on to speak about recent developments in the valley, and the surge in troop presence prior to the repeal of Article 370 of the Indian constitution, “Let me ask you, do you think, without the massive deployment of force in the valley, would article 370 be a truth or a reality?”
He asks the audience “Do you think I should let people from just five districts of a state hold an entire nation at ransom, because of their vested interests?” “I don’t think so!” he declares, with a hint of rage!
He urges the audience to perceive the events in the valley through the eyes of an Indian soldier and asks with genuine emotion, “I ask the audience today, you tell me as a company commander, who has the responsibility of nearly 120 men under me, what answer do I give the mother, who asks me why I allowed her child to be murdered by angry protestors? Why did I allow a father to be killed by a shower of stones? Why did I allow a husband to die during an anti-terror operation when civilians were literally shielding the terrorist?”
He requests the audience consisting of human rights activists to think about it. The young officer reminds the audience that “everybody has got human rights!” He explains to the panel “that includes everybody who is in uniform.” He further asks “Do you think that the day I wore this uniform, I let go of my human rights?” “I don’t think so!” the Blackcat commando declares before concluding his speech.
The valley has been in turmoil since 1989, and indeed there has been violations from all sides of the conflict. It is absolutely pivotal to understand the human aspect of the conflict and the fundamental human reality that everyone sees a situation from their immediate reality and a series of shared experiences by a group of people in a similar situation. The soldiers fighting have their own traumatic experience, the civilians have their own. The challenge is seeing the conflict from the other side of the rifle sight. That is, however, easier said than done.
Indian Army Officer consoling the father of a fallen soldier from Kashmir
To even begin to attempt a peaceful resolution to the violence that has claimed so many lives and cut short the aspirations of generations of civilians, soldiers and police officers, it is indeed a welcome move that the Indo Tibetian Border Police along with the National Human Rights Commission has organised a potent debate platform through which every perspective, including the voices of soldiers, who remain unheard in the mainstream, is objectively analysed and, shared on a common forum to help the people realise that soldiers too are human beings trying to get back home safely.
ATTENTION ALL: CANDIDATES (BDS & MDS) DESIROUS FOR GRANT OF SHORT SERVICE COMMISSION IN ARMY DENTAL CORPS-2020 – Director Gen Armed Forces Medical Services will invite applications from Civilian Dental Surgeons (BDS & MDS) for Grant of Short Service Commission, for the commissioning cycle of 2020 on the basis of NEET MDS-2020 to be conducted by National Board of Examinations (NBE), New Delhi, under the aegis of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
Candidates (BDS & MDS) desirous for Grant of Short Service Commission will have to mandatorily appear for NEET MDS-2020. Candidates are advised to keep a lookout for the notification of NEET MDS-2020.
Based on the Score in NEET MDS-2020, candidates will be screened/ shortlisted for the Interview.
Further details will be available on the website of INDIAN ARMY (www.indianarmy.nic.in) in due course of time. The candidates are therefore advised to visit the site & to read the Information Bulletin carefully as & when it is uploaded.
ATTENTION ALL: ADMISSION TO PG DENTAL (MDS) COURSES IN ARMED FORCES MEDICAL SERVICES TRAINING INSTITUTES FOR PRIORITY III, IV & V CANDIDATES THROUGH NEET MDS-2020 Director General Armed Forces Medical Services will admit desirous candidates for Post Graduate–Dental (MDS) Courses at AFMS Training Institutes, for balance of seats, if any after fulfilling the service requirements, for the session starting in May 2020 on the basis of NEET MDS-2020 to be conducted by National Board of Examinations (NBE), New Delhi, under the aegis of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
The seats will be available to Priority III candidates (Para Military/other Govt. of India sponsored candidates), Priority IV (Ex-SSC AD Corps Officers) & Priority V (Civilian Dental Surgeons) in that order. It is also likely that no seat may be available for some of the prioritized categories, if the same have been allotted to candidates higher in priority and merit.
Candidates desirous of pursuing Post Graduate–Dental (MDS) Courses in these training institutions will have to mandatorily appear for NEET MDS-2020. Candidates are, therefore, advised to keep a lookout for the notification of NEET MDS-2020.
Further details will be available on the website of INDIAN ARMY (www.indianarmy.nic.in) in due course of time. The candidates are therefore advised to visit the site & read the Information Bulletin carefully.
General Bipin Rawat has been one of the countries most well known Army Chiefs. The strong-willed and outspoken leader of the 1.3 million-strong Indian army has not been shy of the media and has displayed the moral courage to speak one’s mind, even when the opinion seemed unfavourable. Indeed, General Rawat marched on spearheading landmark reforms in the Indian Army. From proposing structural reforms in the military’s higher commands to pushing for leaner and meaner teeth driven Army to offer soldierly support to the JCO’s and NCO’s to serve as commissioned officers, here are five of General Rawat’s landmark reforms, in layman’s terms.
Indian Army Chief, General Bipin Rawat
1.) Integrated Battle Groups
Representational image of an Integrated Battle Group
General Rawat has proactively worked towards developing a leaner and meaner fighting force, shedding the unnecessary flab, lowing down the Indian military machine! Following the review of a detailed internal military study, General Rawat announced the phased implementation of what is being called ‘Integrated Battle Groups’. IBG’s are highly agile, self-sustaining brigade-sized combat formations. These combat formations are tailor-made based on a strategic assessment taking into account factors such as Terrain, Tanks and resources into consideration. These mobile combat formations will be able to rapidly mobilise into a theatre of operation within 12-48 hours, (based on the nature of operations) This is predicted to enhance military lethality with existing resources and manpower.
India’s Military firepower demonstration during Republic Day
2.) Indian Army Launches Special Human Rights and Vigilance Cells
There have been increasing allegations of human rights violations by the soldiers of the Indian Army in Kashmir over the years
Under the recommendations of the aforementioned internal study, the Indian Army Chief along with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched a Special Human Rights Cell and a special vigilance cell. The decision to form an Independent Human rights cell as a result of increasing international human rights reports, alleging gross violations of human rights by the army in the valley and the Northeast. The body is to investigate the legitimacy of the claims and take actions accordingly. The Human rights body has been set up at the Army Headquarters (AHQ) in New Delhi and is headed by Additional Directorate General (ADG), a Major General rank officer. The cell reports directly to the Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS). The decision to create specialised anti-corruption cell stemmed from increasing allegations of corruption by personnel of the Indian Army. The anti-corruption body will come under the direct authority of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and will be headed by an Additional Directorate General (ADG), who is a Major General rank officer, reporting solely to the COAS.
Ministry of Defence building South Block
3.) Young Leaders Training Wing To Train Jawans For SSB Interview
General Rawat inaugurating the Young Leaders Training Wing
General Rawat in perhaps one of the Indian Army’s most heartwarming initiative has called for reorganising and reforming the Young Leaders Training Wing at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai. Gen Rawat’s new initiative aims to help serving Jawaans (Other Ranks, Non-Commissioned Officers and Junior Commissioned Officers) prepare for the gruelling five-day officer selection procedure, known as the Services Selection Board. This initiative will help serving soldiers with ground-level operational experience in their respective trade/speciality to get an opportunity to lead units as commissioned officers. The preparation program, comprising of an intensive personality enrichment course, is designed to enhance a jawan’s odds of selection for pre-commission training at OTA Chennai.
Passing Out Parade of cadets training at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai
4.) Artillery Revolution
Artillery superiority is one of the single most decisive factors in modern warfare. Accurate artillery fire has been recorded to be the leading contributor of military casualties in 21st-century military combat. Following the political fallout of the infamous Bofor’s scandal in the ’80s, the Indian Army remained majorly handicapped in its procurement of artillery guns. With the Bofor’s artillery guns having run its combat effectiveness, the Indian Army, under General Rawat has pushed for the induction of several artillery systems, most notably the Dhanush, the Vajra K9 and the M777 Howitzer. The Ordnance Factory Board is scheduled to deliver 400 indigenous Dhanush artillery guns to the Indian Army by next year.
M777 Ultralight Howitzer
Furthermore, the Army is expected to receive the uber advanced United States manufactured M777 Howitzers; the American M777 will be replacing the ageing Bofor’s. The indigenously designed Vajra K9 self-propelled Howitzer will also soon be pushed into service. The induction of the Dhanush, M777 and the Vajra will bolster the Indian Army’s lingering artillery capabilities and enhance its overall combat effectiveness.
Soldiers training Vajra K9 at the Artillery training centre at Deolali
5.) A War On Obesity!
Indian and Russian soldiers taking part in an obstacle course
General Rawat has made it a requirement that officers and soldiers of the Indian Army remain, and look fit! Senior officers found to be with a paunch will be passed over for promotions and foreign postings. The result of not maintaining a military-level of physical and medical fitness will reflect on the officer’s annual confidential reports drastically affecting his/her career progression in the service. The general has even called for a complete overhaul of the food available at the respective officers, JCO’s, NCO and OR’s mess. with oily, unhealthy food to be mercilessly struck off from the menu under the general’s directives! Young officers undergoing their post-commission training at Mhow will now be mandated to undergo an extremely stringent physical fitness evaluation, and if not found to the standards expected, it will result in these officers not receiving their instructors grating. The lack of being awarded an instructors grading will reflect extremely poorly in their ACR’s and will thus hamper their career progression in the long run.
Indian army soldiers cross an obstacle course, during a training session at a battle school in Rajouri, about 138 kilometres (86 miles) northwest of Jammu, India. (Photo by Channi Anand)
A Fitting Legacy
With General Rawat’s tenure coming to a close and the search for India’s new army chief underway, the reforms proposed by the flag officer will undoubtedly push the Indian army to reassess itself as a modern military machine, recalibrate and then rise to meet the future security challenges faced by the country. The successful implementation of these reforms shall be a fitting tribute to the general’s forty-plus years of national service in uniform.
