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Indian Army Honors Three Veterans with Veteran Achievers Award for Remarkable Post-Retirement Contributions

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At a special ceremony during the Retiring Officers Seminar in New Delhi, the Indian Army conferred the prestigious Veteran Achievers Award on three distinguished ex-servicemen whose outstanding post-retirement work continues to uplift society and serve the nation. Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi presented the awards to Colonel Christopher Rego (Retd), Lieutenant Colonel Mohinder Singh Rana (Retd), and Havildar Khirod Kumar Jena (Retd), acknowledging their extraordinary dedication to nation-building long after their active military service ended.

Colonel Christopher Rego (Retd), a veteran of the Corps of Engineers, was honored for his visionary work with Sunbird Trust, a non-profit he founded in 2016. After retiring in January 2016, Rego channeled his efforts into improving education and sustainable development in Northeast India. His organization has supported over 49,000 students and touched more than 390,000 lives by 2024 through impactful partnerships with local governments and the armed forces. Recognized as an Ashoka Fellow in 2016, Rego’s mission to foster peace through education in conflict-affected areas stands as a model of transformative social leadership.

Lieutenant Colonel Mohinder Singh Rana (Retd), of the Army Service Corps, has made notable strides in community service since his retirement in 2017. Based in Himachal Pradesh, Rana co-founded the Smile Foundation to assist the underprivileged and launched a grievance redressal desk in Khudian, Kangra. Through Career Point Academy, he provides free training for young aspirants to join the armed forces. His humanitarian work includes organizing monthly langars and providing flood relief during recent natural disasters in Himachal. His efforts reflect a lifelong dedication to uplifting his community and supporting fellow veterans.

Havildar Khirod Kumar Jena (Retd), an Artillery veteran from Odisha, has become a symbol of grassroots environmental activism. Since retiring in 2005, he has planted over 30,000 fruit-bearing trees using his own pension funds and aims to reach 100,000. He installed a borewell to support this green initiative and has inspired fellow veterans and villagers to join him in restoring local ecosystems. His work promotes biodiversity, supports wildlife, and serves as a living example of ecological patriotism.

General Upendra Dwivedi praised the awardees as embodiments of the Indian Army’s core values of selfless service, courage, and commitment. He noted that the Veteran Achievers Award is not just a recognition of past military accomplishments but also a celebration of continued contributions to the nation’s progress in areas like education, social welfare, and environmental conservation.

The ceremony resonated with the Army’s broader vision of transformation, aligning with 2025’s themes of the “Year of Tech Absorption” and the ongoing “Decade of Transformation” (2023–2032). These initiatives reflect a dual commitment to innovation and societal development, both in and out of uniform.

Senior Army officials, retiring officers, and representatives from the Ministry of Defence attended the event, applauding the honorees for setting inspiring examples of post-retirement service. Their journeys reaffirm the Indian Army’s belief that the call of duty does not end with retirement but continues in the service of the greater good.

COAS General Upendra Dwivedi and Mrs. Sunita Dwivedi Interacted With Gallantry Awardees

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In a solemn and inspiring ceremony held at the iconic Manekshaw Centre, the Indian Army marked the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025 (Phase-1) by honoring its gallantry awardees a day after the national Gallantry Awards presentation at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

General Upendra Dwivedi, the 30th Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), along with Mrs. Sunita Dwivedi, President of the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA), led the ceremony, personally interacting with recipients and their families. The event highlighted the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers, and Other Ranks whose bravery has protected and inspired the nation.

“These gallant individuals are not only defenders of the nation but also symbols of the indomitable spirit that defines the Indian Army,” said General Dwivedi, who took over as COAS on June 30, 2024.

The ceremony was deeply rooted in military tradition and honor, serving as a platform to acknowledge acts of exceptional gallantry and dedication in the line of duty. The COAS emphasized that the heroic stories of the awardees will motivate future generations and reinforce the Army’s enduring values of selfless service and national pride. The ceremony also featured participation from senior officers, regimental representatives, and families of the awardees, providing a moment of reflection and national gratitude.

This year’s Investiture Ceremony was also marked by its alignment with broader institutional initiatives, particularly the Indian Army’s “Decade of Transformation” (2023–2032) and the “Year of Tech Absorption,” in sync with the Ministry of Defence’s “Year of Reforms” in 2025. Under General Dwivedi’s leadership, the Army has intensified its focus on technological modernization, indigenous innovation, and strategic self-reliance—key elements of the Government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. These themes were reflected in the ceremony’s tone, which celebrated not only the past and present acts of valor but also the future-ready ethos of the Indian military.

Hosting the event at the Manekshaw Centre, named after Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, the legendary architect of India’s 1971 victory in the Bangladesh Liberation War, added gravitas to the occasion. The venue stands as a living tribute to leadership, legacy, and sacrifice—ideals carried forward by the awardees honored today.

This event follows other key recognitions in 2025, including the Western Command Investiture Ceremony held on January 10, where 23 personnel were decorated for gallantry and distinguished service. These ceremonies collectively reinforce the Indian Army’s reputation for operational excellence, resilience, and modernization.

The Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025 stood not only as a celebration of gallantry but also as a reaffirmation of the Indian Army’s evolving role as a pillar of national strength, innovation, and inspiration.

Who Was Lieutenant Shashank Tiwari? Know More About Him and The Incident

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Lieutenant Shashank Tiwari, a young officer of the Indian Army’s Sikkim Scouts Regiment, laid down his life in a supreme act of courage and camaraderie. At just 23, he died while saving a fellow soldier from the treacherous currents of a mountain stream in North Sikkim. His story is a timeless testament to the enduring values of bravery, selflessness, and brotherhood that define the Indian Army—and serves as a beacon of inspiration for the nation.

Early Life and Background

Shashank Tiwari hailed from the sacred city of Ayodhya, a place steeped in ideals of service and sacrifice. Raised in a family that held patriotism close to its heart, Shashank was drawn to stories of valour and commitment from an early age.

Determined to serve his country, he secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 463 in the NDA entrance exam and was selected for both NDA 145 and 146 courses—testament to his academic discipline and unwavering resolve. At Centurion Defence Academy, his mentors remember him as humble, fiercely focused, and always ready to lead from the front. For Shashank, the Army uniform was not a symbol of authority—it was a solemn pledge to protect.

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Lieutenant Shashank Tiwari was commissioned into the Indian Army last year with the first posting in Sikkim.

Military Career

Commissioned into the Sikkim Scouts Regiment on December 14, 2024, Lt. Shashank Tiwari entered a unit tasked with defending some of the most hostile and unforgiving terrain in the country. The Sikkim Scouts, an elite high-altitude infantry unit affiliated with the 11 Gorkha Rifles, is trained for precision and endurance in mountainous conditions.

Though his military career spanned less than six months, Lt. Tiwari made a lasting impression. He was known for his composure under pressure and his deep sense of duty. His comrades and seniors alike respected him as a soldier who not only led but protected—with courage and compassion.

A Moment of Crisis: The Heroic Act

On May 22, 2025, Lt. Tiwari was leading a Route Opening Patrol towards a Tactical Operating Base in North Sikkim, an area known for its harsh climate and dangerous terrain. Around 11:00 am, while crossing a narrow log bridge over a fast-moving mountain stream, Agniveer Stephan Subba lost his footing and was swept away by the icy torrent.

Without a second thought, Lt. Tiwari leapt into the water to rescue his fellow soldier. Naik Pukar Katel immediately followed to assist. In an extraordinary act of teamwork and courage, the two managed to pull the Agniveer to safety.

“He rescued both—but made the supreme sacrifice himself.”

Caught in the unforgiving current, Lt. Tiwari was swept away. Despite desperate search efforts by his team, his body was recovered 800 metres downstream approximately half an hour later.

The Indian Army later stated that his actions embodied the highest standards of leadership, courage, and devotion to comrades-in-arms.

Aftermath and National Reaction

The news of Lt. Tiwari’s sacrifice reverberated across the nation. The Eastern Command of the Indian Army paid formal tribute, and Lieutenant General R.C. Tiwari personally extended condolences to the family, reaffirming the Army’s enduring support.

On May 23, he was honoured with full military rites at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. His name is now engraved among India’s bravest, where it will stand as a permanent reminder of his heroism.

Tributes poured in from soldiers, civilians, and leaders alike, each echoing a single truth—Lt. Shashank Tiwari laid down his life so another may live, a gesture that goes beyond duty to touch the sacred.

Family’s Response

Lt. Tiwari is survived by his parents and sister, who continue to mourn a loss that words cannot describe. Yet amid the grief, there is pride.

“He lived his dream and died doing what he believed in. We have lost a son—but the country gained a hero,” said a close family friend.

His mentors from Centurion Defence Academy called him “Ayodhya’s lion heart”—a soldier who walked gently, but stood firm when it mattered most.

Legacy

Though his uniformed journey was brief, his legacy is enduring. Lt. Shashank Tiwari’s name, now inscribed at the National War Memorial, is a symbol of unmatched valour. Defence aspirants across the country look up to him as a role model—a real-life hero who upheld the Indian Army’s creed with both resolve and heart.

Calls have emerged for commemorations in his hometown, including a road or educational institution named in his honour. Whatever form they take, such tributes will ensure that his story continues to inspire generations.

Broader Reflection

Lt. Tiwari’s final act represents the unshakable brotherhood and unyielding devotion that define the Indian Army. He exemplified the belief that a soldier does not fight because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him—his comrades, his country, his people.

In sacrificing himself for a fellow soldier, Lt. Shashank Tiwari became more than a name in the ranks; he became a part of the nation’s soul.

Conclusion

Lt. Shashank Tiwari’s courage is a chapter in the story of India’s freedom—one written in mountain waters and sealed with a soldier’s honour. His memory urges us to hold freedom close and to cherish the protectors who ensure its survival, often at the cost of their own.

“Your son did not fall—he rose into immortality. His name will be remembered with reverence wherever patriotism breathes.”

Indian Navy Hosts 32nd Navy Foundation Meeting at New Nausena Bhawan

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The Indian Navy held the 32nd Governing Council Meeting and Annual General Meeting of the Navy Foundation (NF) on May 21 at the newly inaugurated Nausena Bhawan in Delhi Cantt. Chaired by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff and President of the Navy Foundation, the event reinforced the Navy’s sustained commitment to the welfare of its veteran community.

Representatives from all 18 Navy Foundation chapters across the country, along with stakeholders involved in veteran affairs and members of the NF Delhi Chapter, attended the session. The gathering served as a platform for collaborative dialogue and policy review, highlighting the Navy’s inclusive approach to veteran support.

During the meeting, Admiral Tripathi—who assumed office as the 26th Chief of Naval Staff on April 30, 2024—provided an overview of current initiatives undertaken for retired personnel. Key presentations focused on enhancing healthcare services under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), improving the System for Pension Administration (SPARSH), and revitalizing the Veteran Sailors’ Forum to ensure better outreach and engagement.

Participants also discussed various region-specific concerns raised by different NF chapters, reflecting the Navy’s attention to grassroots-level feedback and customized veteran care. The session enabled open exchanges and offered reassurance that the concerns of naval veterans remain a top priority for the service.

Nausena Bhawan, the event venue and new administrative hub of the Indian Navy, symbolizes the force’s modern vision and administrative evolution. Inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the facility underscores the Navy’s forward-thinking agenda and its ongoing efforts to create a robust support ecosystem for both serving and retired personnel.

The meeting marked another step in the Navy’s continued efforts to honor, support, and remain connected with its veteran community, reflecting the values of respect, service, and unity that define the Indian Navy.

Vajra Corps Hosts Veterans’ Meet in Jalandhar to Strengthen Soldier-Civilian Ties

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In a heartfelt gesture of respect and unity, the Vajra Corps of the Indian Army organized a veterans’ interaction today at the Jalandhar Cantonment. The event brought together retired service members and active personnel to celebrate the enduring bond between soldiers and citizens, reinforcing the Army’s commitment to its veteran community.

Addressing a packed auditorium, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Vajra Corps, Lieutenant General Ajay Chandpuria, expressed deep appreciation for the contributions made by veterans both during and after their military service. He described them as vital ambassadors of the Army, capable of strengthening public understanding and support for the forces.

During his speech, the GOC also provided a comprehensive overview of the current security situation, underlining the Army’s preparedness to address evolving threats. He noted that interactions like these serve not only as a tribute to veterans but also as platforms for sharing valuable insights across generations of soldiers.

Veterans from different decades attended the event, exchanging stories and engaging with serving personnel. Many captured the moment in photographs and selfies, standing before a backdrop bearing the Vajra Corps insignia and the date “23rd May 2025,” a nod to the Corps’ proud legacy.

Also known as XI Corps, Vajra Corps holds a special place in Indian military history. Raised in 1950 as the first Corps of Independent India, it has since earned 25 battle honours, four honour titles, and 38 theatre honours. Its valour during key battles on the Western Front in 1965 and 1971—most notably at Khem Karan and Dograi—has cemented its reputation for excellence.

This event echoes similar past initiatives by the Indian Army, including the 2021 Swarnim Vijay Varsh celebrations during which veterans were felicitated by Punjab Governor VP Singh Badnore. These consistent efforts reflect the Army’s enduring commitment to keeping veterans engaged and honored as part of its extended family.

The gathering in Jalandhar not only paid tribute to the past but also reaffirmed the present and future importance of veterans in national security and societal harmony. Through such interactions, the Indian Army continues to build a bridge of trust and pride between its forces and the people they serve.

Lt Gen Pratik Sharma Assesses Combat Readiness of Fire and Fury Corps in Ladakh

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In a move signaling India’s heightened focus on border security, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, Army Commander of the Northern Command, reviewed the operational preparedness of the Fire and Fury Corps along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh. The visit comes amid renewed concerns over ceasefire violations on the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and unresolved tensions along the LAC with China.

Lt Gen Sharma’s tour included key forward areas and high-altitude posts manned by the Fire and Fury Corps, which is responsible for India’s most sensitive military zones including the Galwan Valley and the Siachen Glacier. With both India and China continuing to maintain substantial troop deployments in eastern Ladakh since the 2020 Galwan clashes, the Corps has remained on high alert.

During his inspection, Lt Gen Sharma interacted with soldiers stationed in the harsh terrain, acknowledging their fortitude and professionalism. He praised the Corps’ efforts in integrating cutting-edge military technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomous surveillance systems, and cyber warfare capabilities—critical tools for operations in Ladakh’s complex and elevated geography.

The Army Commander stressed the importance of remaining alert and professionally prepared, especially in the face of the continuing Sino-Indian border dispute. He reiterated that the evolving security landscape along the LAC, which spans Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh, demands round-the-clock readiness and adaptability.

The visit also underscored the strategic significance of the Northern Command, which oversees India’s full northern frontier. With an estimated 70,000 Chinese troops deployed in the Southern Xinjiang Military District opposite Ladakh, and an additional 40,000 in Tibet, the region remains a potential flashpoint. While communication channels between the two nations—such as military hotlines and regular commander-level meetings—exist to ease tensions, substantive resolutions to the territorial disputes have yet to be reached.

Lt Gen Sharma’s review highlights the Indian Army’s continued emphasis on combat preparedness and its resolve to secure national interests in Ladakh. As the Fire and Fury Corps continues to spearhead operations in this critical theatre, India’s military leadership remains focused on strategic readiness to deter any misadventure along its northern borders.

Pakistan Poised to Strike Baloch Militants Across Borders in Retaliation to Khuzdar School Bus Bombing

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In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Pakistan is reportedly preparing to launch targeted airstrikes against Baloch separatist militants operating in neighboring countries within the next 40 hours. The move comes in the aftermath of a suicide bombing in Khuzdar, Balochistan, on May 21, which killed five civilians—including three schoolchildren—sparking national outrage.

Also Read: Major Suicide Bombing Hits Army School Bus in Balochistan

The Pakistan Armed Forces are believed to be planning precision strikes on suspected militant camps in either Afghanistan or Iran, countries that share porous borders with Pakistan’s troubled Balochistan province. The bombing, which targeted a school bus en route to an army public school, has been blamed by Pakistani authorities on Baloch insurgents, with Islamabad also alleging Indian involvement—a claim New Delhi has firmly rejected.

Security sources indicate the planned operation is aimed at dismantling the operational bases of groups such as the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), which has intensified its insurgent campaign in 2025. The BLA has claimed responsibility for a number of recent attacks, including a dramatic train hijacking in March and multiple ambushes that have claimed the lives of over 200 Pakistani security personnel this year alone.

The Khuzdar attack is the latest flashpoint in a conflict that has simmered since Pakistan’s independence in 1947. Baloch nationalists have long decried what they describe as exploitation of the region’s rich natural resources and systemic political marginalization. The Sui gas fields, in particular, have been a focal point of these grievances.

Pakistan’s aggressive posture marks a stark shift, raising fears of a wider regional fallout. Iran, which has occasionally collaborated with Pakistan against Baloch militants, is unlikely to tolerate unilateral airstrikes on its territory, especially given its own restive Baloch minority. Afghanistan, still grappling with instability under Taliban rule, is similarly expected to oppose any breach of sovereignty.

Historically, cross-border cooperation has been fraught. During the 1970s, Iran supported Pakistani efforts to crush Baloch resistance. However, more recent incidents—such as the 2009 killing of Baloch nationalist leaders allegedly by Pakistani forces—have drawn international condemnation and further radicalized Baloch sentiment.

Human rights advocates and exiled Baloch leaders have issued urgent appeals for restraint. Dr. Wahid Baloch, President of the Baloch Council of North America, called for a peaceful, political resolution to the crisis. “Bombing Baloch communities will not end this conflict—it will only deepen the wounds and drive more youth into militancy,” he warned.

The looming airstrikes have prompted concern among global powers. The United States and the European Union have both urged Pakistan to pursue diplomatic avenues and avoid destabilizing actions that could provoke regional confrontations.

As the 40-hour countdown ticks, the world watches anxiously. Whether this latest military gambit will suppress separatist violence or ignite a broader conflict remains uncertain—but it undoubtedly marks a perilous turn in South Asia’s longest-running insurgency.

What is The Strategic Logic Behind the Indian Army’s Olive Green Uniform?

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When Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Adampur Air Force Station recently, a striking image captured the essence of India’s military readiness—S-400 air defence systems and MiG-21 fighter aircraft, all bathed in the distinct shade of Olive Green. Far beyond being a mere aesthetic choice, this colour has become a tactical and symbolic staple of the Indian Army’s identity, especially visible during high-stakes operations like Operation Sindoor.

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Adampur Air Base Showcasing S-400 Defence System and MiG-21 Aircraft

Camouflage and Concealment in Varied Terrains

The primary reason for the widespread use of Olive Green is its effectiveness in camouflage. Most ground operations conducted by the Indian Army take place in forested, hilly, or semi-arid environments. In such terrains, Olive Green allows soldiers and their equipment to merge seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. From infantry on patrol to tanks concealed behind natural ridges, the colour reduces visibility against enemy surveillance, whether from the air or on the ground.

Soldiers in Jungle
Indo-Malaysia Joint Training in Jungle Warfare

Visual Coherence and Battlefield Coordination

Another key advantage is tactical uniformity. By using a standard colour across soldiers’ uniforms, vehicles, and weapons, the army ensures visual coherence on the battlefield. This consistency aids in distinguishing friend from foe and reduces the risk of friendly fire, particularly in fast-moving combat scenarios. It also enhances coordination between infantry units and mechanised divisions, improving operational efficiency.

Blend of Olive
Army Maintains Visual Coherence By Tactical Uniformity

From Khaki to Olive: A Strategic Transition

The adoption of Olive Green also carries a historical legacy. Prior to independence, Indian soldiers wore khaki uniforms—a practice inherited from the British military. However, in the 1980s, the Indian Army made a strategic shift to Olive Green, in line with global post-WWII military standards that favoured non-reflective, terrain-adaptive colours. Many nations had already begun adopting Olive Green for its superior blending qualities and functional appeal.

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AI Image Showing Transition of Uniform Over the Years.

Discipline, Unity, and a Shared Identity

Symbolically, Olive Green represents more than tactical advantage. It reflects the values of discipline, resilience, and unity. The colour ties the soldier not only to their team but also to the land they serve and protect. It fosters a shared sense of purpose and belonging across ranks and units, reinforcing the ethos of service.

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Olive Green Reflects The Values of Discipline, Resilience, and Unity

Low Maintenance, High Utility

The colour also scores high in practicality. It conceals stains, dust, and signs of wear far better than lighter shades, reducing the burden of maintenance. Moreover, the cost of producing Olive Green clothing and coatings is significantly lower than manufacturing elaborate camouflage patterns, making it an economical choice for large-scale application.

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Olive Green Conceals Stains, Dust, and Signs of Wear Far Better Than Lighter Shades, Reducing the Burden of Maintenance

Adaptability in Diverse Operational Theatres

Despite its prevalence, the Indian military remains flexible in adapting uniform colours to specific operational needs. For example, selected units employ disruptive pattern materials (DPM) for enhanced camouflage in specialised environments. The Indian Air Force wears blue in ceremonial settings but switches to Olive Green for combat operations. The Navy, meanwhile, operates in white to remain visible during maritime manoeuvres and emergency situations.

Also Read: 8 Uniforms of the Indian Army that You Have to Earn

Also Read: 17 Uniforms Of The Indian Air Force That You Have To Earn

Also Read: 10 Uniforms Of The Indian Navy That You Need To Earn

More Than a Colour: A Statement of Purpose

In essence, the choice of Olive Green is deeply rooted in both strategic foresight and cultural resonance. It is not merely a colour but a visual embodiment of the Indian Army’s readiness, unity, and dedication—a message reinforced during every phase of Operation Sindoor.

Supreme Court Directs Indian Air Force Not to Release Officer Involved in Operation Sindoor

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The Supreme Court on May 22, 2025, directed the Centre and the Indian Air Force (IAF) not to release Wing Commander Nikita Pandey, a woman officer who played a key role in Operation Balakot and Operation Sindoor, despite being denied permanent commission under a 2019 policy. The Court’s bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh emphasized the adverse impact of uncertainty in service on officers of the armed forces.

During the hearing, the bench praised the professionalism and dedication of the Indian Air Force, calling its officers a vital asset to the nation. Justice Surya Kant remarked on the “unparalleled” coordination displayed by the force and acknowledged the sacrifices made by officers that allow citizens to feel secure.

Senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy, representing Wing Commander Pandey, argued that Pandey, an expert fighter controller and second in the country’s merit list of such specialists, was unfairly denied permanent commission. The officer has served more than 13.5 years but was forced to conclude her service within a month due to the policy denying her permanent commission.

The Court questioned the Centre and IAF, represented by Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, about the reasons for denying the commission. Ms. Bhati, who herself comes from an armed forces family, acknowledged the officer’s competence but stated that Pandey was found unfit by the selection board and had bypassed internal representations, directly approaching the Supreme Court. She added that a second selection board would soon reconsider the case.

The bench ordered that Wing Commander Pandey’s release from service be stayed until further orders and scheduled the next hearing for August 6, 2025. However, the Court clarified that it was not creating any equity in her favor and kept all contentions open.

Ms. Bhati highlighted the structural constraints of the IAF’s “steep pyramidal” system, explaining that officers typically serve a maximum of 14 years under the Short Service Commission (SSC), after which only a limited number can be granted permanent commission to maintain force vitality.

Justice Kant stressed the need for the armed forces to accommodate all suitable SSC women officers into permanent commissions, recognizing their outstanding performance. He suggested that if 100 SSC officers are recruited, the system should have the capacity to absorb all those found fit into permanent roles.

Ms. Bhati responded that while 90-95% of officers are generally found fit for permanent commission, final selection depends on comparative merit and available vacancies, noting the limitations posed by the hierarchical structure.

This ruling marks an important development in ongoing debates about women’s roles and career progression in the Indian armed forces, underscoring judicial support for fair treatment and clarity in service terms for officers like Wing Commander Nikita Pandey.

Pakistan Army Spokesman Threatens India Over Indus Waters, Echoing Terrorist Hafiz Saeed

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In a provocative escalation of rhetoric, Pakistan Army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry issued a direct threat to India over the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, echoing the language of UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed.

Speaking at a public event in a Pakistani university, Chaudhry declared, “If you block our water, we will choke your breath,” in response to India’s decision to halt aspects of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty following a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that left 26 people dead. His remarks mirror Hafiz Saeed’s infamous threats, sparking outrage and drawing sharp criticism from Indian observers.

India’s suspension of treaty obligations, announced on April 23, came a day after the Pahalgam attack. The move was followed by Operation Sindoor on May 7, in which Indian forces targeted nine terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir.

The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank, has governed water sharing between India and Pakistan for over six decades. However, India has increasingly signaled that its patience is wearing thin over Islamabad’s alleged inaction on cross-border terrorism. New Delhi maintains that “blood and water cannot flow together” and has tied future cooperation to Pakistan’s commitment to ending terror support.

Lt Gen Chaudhry’s remarks are seen as an official endorsement of extremist rhetoric, further straining India-Pakistan ties. Analysts warn that such statements could erode diplomatic space and increase the risk of confrontation in an already volatile regional climate.