In This Issue Since 1909 GoldenPRESIDENT’S Jubilee ADDRESS Celebrations TO THE NATION of 1965 Indo Pak War 4

(Initially published as FAUJI AKHBAR) Vol. 62 q No 19 9 - 23 Asvina, 1937 (Saka) 1-15 October 2015

The journal of ’s Armed Forces published every fortnight in thirteen languages including Hindi & English on behalf of Ministry of Defence. It is not necessarily an organ for the expression of the Government’s defence policy. The published items represent the views of respective writers and correspondents.

Editor-in-Chief CAS Addresses the Hasibur Rahman Parrikar Asks DRDO 7 10 Editor Editor (Features) to Focus… Combined… Dr Abrar Rahmani Ehsan Khusro Coordination Business Manager Sekhar Babu Madduri Dharam Pal Goswami Our Correspondents DELHI: Dhananjay Mohanty; Capt DK Sharma; Manoj Tuli; Nampibou Marinmai; Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva; Col Rohan Anand; Wg Cdr SS Birdi, Ved Pal; ALLAHABAD: Gp Capt BB Pande; BENGALURU: Dr MS Patil; CHANDIGARH: Parvesh Sharma; CHENNAI: T Shanmugam; GANDHINAGAR: Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman; GUWAHATI: Lt Col Suneet Newton; IMPHAL: Lt Col Ajay Kumar Sharma; : Naresh Vijay Vig; JAMMU: Lt Col Manish Mehta; JODHPUR: Lt Col Manish Ojha; KOCHI: Cdr Sridhar E Warrier ; KOHIMA: Lt Col E Musavi; : 8 “Dimensions of Gender Justice… Gp Capt TK Singha; LUCKNOW: Ms Gargi Malik Sinha; MUMBAI: Cdr Rahul 16 Chakravyuh Sinha; Narendra Vispute; NAGPUR: Wg Cdr Samir S Gangakhedkar; PALAM: Gp The Battle of Dograi 17 IAF Conducts Ultra Marathon… 12 Capt SK Mehta; PUNE: Mahesh Iyengar; SECUNDERABAD: MA Khan Shakeel; SHILLONG: Gp Capt Amit Mahajan; SRINAGAR: Col NN Joshi; TEZPUR: Lt Col 20 Valour of Punjab Regiment… Sombith Ghosh; THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Suresh Shreedharan; UDHAMPUR: 23 Air Chief Marshal Visits Lucknow Col SD Goswami; VISAKHAPATNAM: Cdr CG Raju. 24 Paramotor Expedition… Published by: Sitanshu Kar Director (Media & Communication) Directorate of Public Relations, South Block, Ministry of Defence, New Delhi-110011 Regulars Follow us on: 18 Photo Features: Shauryanjali… 27 Armed Forces Panorama

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On front cover: The President, Mr Pranab Mukherjee being presented a memento by the Chief of Army Staff, General Dalbir Singh and the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral R.K. Dhowan, at ‘Shauryanjali’, a commemorative exhibition on Golden Jubilee of 1965 war, at India Gate, in New Delhi on September 19, 2015.pic: GD Mehra Golden Jubilee Celebrations of 1965 Indo Pak War

he Army as part of Joint Service Teffort,organised a series of events to mark the Golden Jubilee of the 1965 Indo - Pak War. It was aimed to pay tribute to the collective resolve of the nation and the valour and sacrifice of The Armed Forces. The commemorative events commenced from 28 Aug 15, with the President laying a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti. On this very day, fifty years ago the had captured the strategic Hajipir Pass in response to Pakistan’s Operation Gibraltar, aimed at wresting Kashmir by sending in armed infiltrators. This was followed by a two day Seminar on September 1 and 2, 2015 where the lessons of the War were revisited Mr Pranab Mukherjee at AJJ on inauguration of Golden Jubilee of 1965 War and books on Indo-Pak War 1965 that India scored a decisive victory were released. in the War. He described it as a The attraction of the nostalgic occasion and recalled the celebrations was the exhibition emotional and material support that “Shauryanjali” in the India Gate the war had generated nationwide lawns, initially planned from 15 to for the Armed Forces. The Minister 20 September and extended till released two commemorative coins September 27 due to overwhelming of Rs. 50/- and Rs. 5/- denominations public response. The exhibition on this occasion. Mr Ravi recreated major battle scenes and Prasad released a set of stamps and show cased the role of various arms First Day Cover to commemorate and services during the War. During the occasion. He recalled the clarion the inauguration ceremony on 15 call ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ coined by September, Mr Arun Jaitley stated Prime Minister Mr Lal Bahadur Shastri and recollected how the nation rose in unison in support of the Armed Forces. A special brochure was also released by the Defence Minister, Mr Manohar Parrikar who stated that this was first major war that India won hands-down. A documentary film on the War was also telecast. The veterans and veer naris who attended the event were Smt Rasoolan Biwi - wife of PVC recipient CQMH Abdul Hamid, Mrs Zarine Mahir - daughter of PVC recipient Lt Mr Narendra Modi at AJJ on the eve of termination of Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Col AB Tarapore, Mrs Asha Rani - 1965 War wife of Ashok Chakra recipient Mr

4 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 They were conducted through the exhibitions area to include Terrain Walk Throughs, Battle Enclosures, Martyrs Gallery and other enclosures by arms and services, depicting the Indo Pak war of 1965 in its entirety. Their endorsements prior to departure speaks for itself. On 20 September 2015, a Carnival to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of 1965 Indo- Pak Mr Hamid Ansari releasing book on 1965 War authored by Mr Nitin Gokhale war, “Indradhanush”was organised at India Gate Lawns. It celebrated the triumph of India and shared the joy of the success with one and all. The carnival showcased events like martial arts display by regiments of the Army (Khukuri Dance, Gatka, Thang La and Kalari Payattu), jazz band concert, hot air balloon rides, choreographed dance shows, Army Dog Show, Army Motor Cycle display, magicians, jugglers and host of other activities. Gen Dalbir Singh, COAS felicitated the Army Para Motors team led by Lt Col Rajeev Mishra who traversed the Mr Arun Jaitley releasing the Commemorative Coin of 1965 War Northern and Western Sectors, Chaman Lal, Mrs Bharinder Dayal The President, Vice President, finally culminating in New Delhi. A painting competition with ‘Indian – wife of MVC recipient Lt Gen RS Prime Minister, host of cabinet Armed Forces’ as the theme was also Dayal, Mrs Earini Vaidya - daughter ministers, foreign delegations, conducted and prizes given away of former COAS Late General AK eminent personalities and public by Mrs Namita Suhag, President Vaidya, MVC, amongst many others. at large, visited the exhibition. AWWA.

Gen Dalbir Singh felicitating the Para Motor adventure team during the Carnival of 1965 War Martial arts display during carnival - Kalari Payattu

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 5 Martial arts display during carnival – Gatka Martial arts display during carnival - Khukuri Dance The Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi laid wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti and interacted with the war veterans on 22 September. The President also interacted with the veterans over tea at Rashtrapati Bhawan, the same day, marking the

Martial arts display during carnival - Thang La

culmination of the 1965 Indo Pak celebrations, while the exhibition depicting the war continued till 27 September, on popular demand. Golden Jubilee Celebrations of 1965 War was a recollection of history and that of the magnificent men in arms who created that history, along with the nation that supported the war effort with its heart and soul. Given the response and emotions it evoked, surely, it must have created a sense of reassurance among the current generation that the armed forces will always respond to the occasion when called upon to do so and gave us all the opportunity to remember and bow our heads to those who made the supreme sacrifice in this glorious chapter of history. Army motor Cycle Team during the carnival - Col Rohan Anand

6 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 DRDO DIRECTORS’ CONFERENCE Parrikar Asks DRDO to Focus on Core Defence Technology Areas

he Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar on TSeptember 23, 2015 asked DRDO scientists to concentrate on core activities factoring the defence technology requirements of the Armed Forces. He asked DRDO to involve the Industry in producing the technologies which they have developed. “Hand- hold the Industry to make some products which you may have developed”, he said. Addressing the 39th Directors’ Conference in Delhi on September 23, 2015, Mr Parrikar said the close interface of DRDO with Navy in developing technology products is well matured. DRDO should now develop similar level of interface with Army and IAF. Appreciating the large scale technical manpower that DRDO has developed over the years, Mr Parrikar said DRDO can play an inspirational role in skill- development in the country across several fields, leading Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar conferring the Lifetime to job creation for the ever expanding youth population Achievement Award on former DRDO Chief Mr V Arunachalam in of the country. DRDO Directors’ Conference Mr Parrikar directed the top brass of DRDO to avoid DRDO has been able to achieve the objectives of self- duplication or overlapping of activities by Laboratories reliance to a great extent in the past seven decades. for greater economic efficiency. In this regard, the While he touched upon the success stories of missiles and Cluster Heads have a major role to play. He asked the Radars, he urged the scientists to treat disappointments as scientists not to rest on laurels but seek greater heights challenges and convert them into greater opportunities. in innovation and technology. ACM Raha said Scientists should be driven by Mr Parrikar said there is a potential of one billion passion that does not allow them to resttill the task is dollar worth of exports of technology products developed achieved. by DRDO in 2-3 years. The CAS said DRDO has a great role to play The Meeting was attended among others by the in transformation process of the Armed Forces and Chief of Air Staff and Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee mentioned that key issues should be jointly addressed Air Chief Marshal , the Chief of Naval Staff by all the stakeholders. There should be a greater Admiral RK Dhowan and Scientific Advisor to Raksha involvement of the three services and production Mantri Dr G Satheesh Reddy. agencies and a joint development road map. Speaking on the occasion, Air Chief Marshal Arup ACM Raha said the transformation of Armed Forces Raha said our visionary forefathers had conceptualized into a strategic Force with a multi spectrum capability DRDO as the prime instrument for gaining strategic will need to ride on the shoulders of DRDO. They will independence for India through indigenisation and need to work together in a mission mode with result development of core/critical technologies. He said orientation bringing in more indigenization through state of art equipment. The DG, DRDO Dr S Christopher said the year 2014-15 was marked by a number of achievements in every technology cluster. He said the current value of production orders or DAC cleared systems from the DRDO stable stands at 1.79 Lakhs Crores, which does not include strategic systems. - Sitanshu Kar with Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 7 “Dimensions of Gender Justice-Armed Forces: A Legal Prospective”

r Justice BP Dharmadhikari, MBombay High Court (Nagpur Bench) inaugurated a day long symposium on “Dimensions of Gender Justice – Armed Forces: A Legal Prospective at Institute of Military Law, Kamptee on September 4, 2015. The symposium was conducted to commemorate Silver Jubilee celebration of Army (ARTRAC). During his inaugural address The elite gathering on the dais is seen listening to Justice BP Dharmadhikari in rapt Justice Dharmadhikari, explained attention. that equality means equal whether it will be considered as a give a better understanding of the opportunities without any gender contingency. He hoped that the recent laws on subject. bias. He put up thought provoking symposium would surely address situation to the audience and the Maj Gen NS Rao, Commandant, symposium. He cited the example the issues of sexual harassment at NCC OTA recommended that IML of battlefield as a workplace where workplace and child abuse. should prepare handouts on laws bullets are flying in all directions. Earlier Maj Gen VC and issues related to gender justice, Such a situation in context of Chitravanshi, ADG (Litigation), Army which may be made available on gender equality will need a careful HQ, New Delhi intimated the august website for ready reference and also interpretation of law and wondered gathering that the symposium would to be distributed to Commandants

Group Photograph of symposium conducted to commemorate Silver Jubilee celebration of (ARTRAC) at IML Kamptee on September 4, 2015.

8 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 the seminar was to address issues specially connected and falling under POCSO Act, 2012 and Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment at Work Places Act (Women Act), 2013, with special reference to ‘Procedural safeguards & conduct of proceedings under Army Act.’ Gender inequalities throughout the world are amongst the most all-pervasive forms of inequality. Gender equality concerns each & every member of the society & forms the very basis of just societies & hence, the issue of Gender Justice is of enormous magnitude & immense Officers of Army, Air Force, MNS, Course Officers and representatives from various importance. The days of yore when defence units and establishments attending the symposium. women were treated as fragile, and Staff Officers at various levels. philosophy of ARTRAC is “No Soldier feeble, dependent & subordinate ARTRAC carries out the yeomen or Officer should ever lose his life or to men, should be a matter of limbs in combat, because he was history. Gender equality & women task of training officers and men in inadequately trained.” That is the empowerment are the call of the day various fields of combat training. essence of the training in the Indian & attempts should be made to achieve Col Sandeep Kumar, Commandant, Army. With this aim & objective in satisfactory results. Every body should IML explained that fundamental mind, ARTRAC came into being be prepared to fight for the idea and on October 1, 1991 at Mhow in actualize the conceptual vision in Madhya Pradesh. Subsequently on practicality. The mandate of POCSO March 31, 1993, Headquarters Act, 2012 under Sec 43, casts a ARTRAC was shifted to Shimla, the duty on Central Government & State capital of Himachal Pradesh from Governments to take measures to where it is functioning & successfully give vide publicity to the provisions of creating Scholar Warriors ever since. the Act and impart periodic training Presently, ARTRAC is commanded by on the related matters. Similarly Lt Gen PM Hariz, who overtook the under Women Act, 2013, Sec 24 command on August 1, 2015. The cast a duty on Govt. to take measures General Offr is an alumnus of NDA, to publicize the Act through info, Khadakvasla & was commissioned education on training awareness into Mechanized Inf Bn, 16 MAHAR and orientation on programmes. (Para) on June 10, 1978. The seminar especially focused on The Seminar was attended by applicability and implementation of Senior Officers from JAG Br from these acts in army environment and Army Headquarters and various to formulate guidelines to streamline Command Zones, Civil Dignitaries the processing of these cases. including eminent Jurists, Professors The symposium proceedings & Students from Law Colleges, are being conducted by Capt Saloni Nagpur, Judges from Bombay Parmar. It is interesting to note that High Court of Judicature (Nagpur all the four instructors posted at IML, Bench), Officers from Air Force other than the Commandant himself, , Nagpur are women officers. and Station Officers. The scope of - Wg Cdr Samir S Gangakhedkar

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 9 AFGIS AND IAFBA CAS Addresses the Combined Annual Meet

ir Chief Marshal Arup Raha, AChief of the Air Staff (CAS) addressed the combined Annual General Body Meeting of Air Force Group Insurance Scheme (AFGIS) and Benevolent Association (IAFBA) at Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park in New Delhi on September 17, 2015. These are the two agencies which are the potent welfare arms of the IAF and have continuously evolved Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha (In centre) addressing the combined comprehensive welfare schemes annual meet of Air Force Group Insurance Society (AFGIS) and Indian Air Force Benevolent Association (IAFBA) at Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi. catering to the diverse needs of Air Warriors, Air Veterans and their by the association which included In the second part of the families. merit based scholarships, schemes address, the Air Chief highlighted The Air Chief in his first of special children, disbursement some significant measures initiated part of his address reviewed the of education loan, welfare loans, by the AFGIS to enhance the performance of the association performing decent last rites of financial security of serving & retired during 2014-2015. He lauded the deceased air veterans etc. role of IAFBA by conveying that air warriors serving and retired. it has been proactive and made a He also brought out that the The important ones include credit positive impact to the aspiration of IAFBA was completing 75 years of its of 0.5% of bonus to the survival air warriors, both serving and retired. existence on November 22, 2015. benefit, the sustenance of the The Air Chief also highlighted the Towards this, the Air Chief also interest rate of 10% per annum on humanitarian schemes being run released a ‘First Day Cover’. the survival benefits, the flying pay

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha addressing the combined annual meet of Air Force Group Insurance Society (AFGIS) and Indian Air Force Benevolent Association (IAFBA) at Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi.

10 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 Members of the Managing Council of the Indian Air Force Benevolent Association (IAFBA) during the combined annual meet of Air Force Group Insurance Society (AFGIS) and Indian Air Force Benevolent Association (IAFBA) at Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi. linked insurance scheme with effect from October 1, 2014, Social Security Deposit Scheme for benefit of widows and next- of- kin of air warriors, facility of SMS alerts to retiring members about remittance

‘First Day Cover’ being released by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha as the Indian Air Force Benevolent Association (IAFBA) completes 75 years of its existence at Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi. of survival benefits, and enhanced contribution towards financial insurance cover to air veterans and security of the air warriors, air increase of house building loan from veterans and their families, and also existing Rs. 35 Lakh to Rs. 50 Lakh directed them to continue to provide with effect from October 1, 2015. meaningful welfare service to their In his concluding address, the members. Air Chief complimented both the - Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva associations for their significant pix: Rajesh Khanande

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 11 GOLDEN JUBILEE OF 1965 WAR The Battle of Dograi

relude to Operations in Lahore PSector (Operation Riddle) 11 Corps was to launch simultaneous thrusts along the Axes GT Road and Bhikkiwind-Barki with the aim of securing the East Bank of Ichhogil Canal (laterally echeloned between the international border and Lahore city)and in doing so, capture vital bridges on the canal intact. 4 Mountain Division, 7 & 15 Infantry Divisions were orbatted to the Corps. By mid September, 7 Infantry Division had successfully captured Barki and 4 Mountain Division had mauled Pakistan armour, creating the Patton graveyard at Asal Uttar. Glory had however eluded 15 Col SZA Rizvi briefing PM Mr Narendra Modi on Battle of Dograi during Golden Jubilee Celebrations of 1965 War at New Delhi on September 16, 2015 Infantry Division.

Dograi and adjoining area of operations (Pic taken from archives of 3 JAT)

12 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 with the artillery was preventing much needed fire support, enemy pressure was intensifying and the demolished bridge was crumbling away threatening to isolate troops ahead of canal . Under the circumstances, 3 JAT was ordered to vacate their gains by abandoning Batapore, Attoke Awan and Dograi and withdraw to Gosal Dial which it did by 1715 hrs on September 6, 1965. A brilliant success was allowed to slip away unexploited. Till September 12, 1965, attempts were made to recapture Lt Col Hayde standing amidst the devastation in Dograi (Picture taken from Sanik Samachar of Jan 1966) Dograi and GT Road Bridge by the brigade but did not make headway Dograi was a township that by 1130 hrs. The gallant unit then in view of Pakistan reinforcing the stood on the East bank of the swung South and captured Dograi. sector. By September 19, 15 Infantry Ichhogil Canal. The canal itself Rapidly exploiting its success, two Division Sector regrouped for fresh had considerable defence potential companies crossed the Canal over offensive and 54 Infantry Brigade for the enemy and shielded Lahore remnants of a demolished bridge was again tasked to capture Dograi from Indian offensive thrusts. and secured areas of Batapore and and the East Bank of Ichhogil. Grand Trunk (GT) Road connecting Attoke Awan. Enemy counterattack Amritsar and Lahore cut across it was repulsed. Having scored a The Epic of Dograi near Dograi. The capture of Dograi sensational success, the unit then Dograi and approaches and bridges on the canal were thus started looking over their shoulders leading to it were strongly held with imperatives to progress operations for the logistical support to hold on two coys at Mile 13 and another two towards Lahore. to their objective. Enemy air action at Dograi, comprising elements of Initial Success (6 to 10 Sep 65) had earlier strafed its administrative 16 PUNJAB, 3 BALUCH, 8 PUNJAB convoy, lack of radio communication and 18 BALUCH. The Night of On September 6, 1965, 3 JAT crossed the IB, North of Wagah, approached Gosal-Dial and cleared all enemy resistance by 0700 hrs the same day, thereby clearing the way for further progress of operations by the brigade. In this fight, 35 enemy soldiers were killed and many taken prisoner. Pakistan air force struck targets on GT Road causing significant damage to 3 JAT reserve echelons. Despite casualties, the battalion took on the mantle of further advance till Ichhogil Canal, a task initially mandated for another battalion. The unit raced for Ichhogil Canal and captured the East Bank COAS interacting with soldiers of 3 JAT shortly after ceasefire

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 13 JAT final orders to the men were simple:“Follow your leaders, shoot at anything that moves or is suspicious, and quickly secure the objective after it is captured”. Apparently, they were well understood. 3 JAT, after a most creditable night advance, fell upon the flank and rear of the enemy positions at Dograi. The defenders were taken by surprise. It was pitch dark, the Jats and Pakistanis were all mixed up. Inevitably there were close encounters between the adversaries and Dograi was captured at 0300 Capt KS Thapa, MVC (Posthumous) Maj AR Tyagi, MVC (Posthumous) hrs. 27 hrs of non stop combat 21/22 September was chosen for and flushing operations continued officer and a few others were. We wherein the Jats did not pause or launching the assault. must have been under the fire of at ponder, till the last of the enemy  Phase 1 - 13 PUNJAB, least eight machine-guns at every was cleared from Dograi. An extract was to capture Mile 13, by 2359 step we took. We had a lot of fresh of statement by Lt Col Hayde at hours September 21. young troops. But we had made it Dograi, post ceasefire, when unit very clear to them, that there was  Phase 2 - 3 JAT, was was 400 mtr from Dograi and about only one aim, and that aim was to to make a wide outflanking detour to assault it (Quoted from Sanik close the gap from the FUP, on the of 6000 yards to take Dograi from Samachar of January 1966) :- the North. objective from where the enemy “It was from here that we really was firing, as quickly as possible, 13 PUNJAB scored a partial started getting it. A whole machine whether it be in the open, whether success at Mile 13 but as planned, gun complex, along the eastern it be through cover, whether it be at the second phase of his attack bank of the Ichhogil Canal opened the run, whether it be on your belly. was launched at 0130 hrs. Lt up. They must have been in the area There was to be no stop until they Col Desmond E Hayde, CO 3 in which myself, my intelligence had made the built up area on the north-eastern and northern edge of Dograi. And this, I am really proud so say, my young Jat Jawans did with full valour, with full vigor, under the terrific and dynamic leadership of my company commanders, platoon commanders and junior leaders. Once my boys closed in with the enemy on the objective, very intense and severe hand-to-hand fighting had to take place, because it was difficult to get the enemy out of their trenches. The enemy for obvious reasons was not very keen to leave Defence Minister Mr YB Chavan being briefed from a vantage point in Dograi by Lt Col their trenches and we for very Hayde (Pic taken from Photo Division of MoD) obvious reasons had to get in there

14 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 and push them out”. The success at Dograi made the enemy position at Mile 13 untenable. The two enemy companies located in this area fled across the canal. By September 22, 13 PUNJAB had secured their objectives and four enemy Counter Attacks had been beaten back at Dograi by 3 JAT. Cease-fire came into effect on September 23. Victory always comes at a price ; 58 soldiers (including 04 officers) of 3 JAT were martyred and 157 wounded. Casualties inflicted upon the enemy was over 300 soldiers killed and 108 captured, including the Commanding Officer of 16 (Pak) PUNJAB. During the campaign, four Prime Minister Mr Lal Bahadur Shastri interacting with Lt Col Hayde and troops of 3 JAT, MVCs were awarded for conspicuous post ceasefire bravery :- Summing Up up defended area, 1000x800  Maj Gen Mohinder Singh, 15 Infantry Division captured yards in size, supported a large GOC 15 Inf Div Dograi on the eve of ceasefire, number of tanks and un seemingly  Lt Col Desmond E Hayde, an objective that had eluded by unlimited artillery support. It Commanding Officer, 3 JAT them for better part of the war. Its is characterised by exceptional spearhead battalion, 3 JAT wrote a valour of the Jat soldiers and  Maj AR Tyagi (Posthumous), 3 chapter in military campaigns that highly inspiring leadership. For JAT is regarded till date as an “Epic”. its exemplary display of courage  Capt Kapil Singh Thapa The Battle of Dograiis unique; there and determination, the battalion (Posthumous), 3 JAT are rare instances where only 523 was awarded the battle honour of In addition, 3 JAT was awarded determined attackers have gone “DOGRAI”, and Theatre Honour 4 VrC, 7 Sena Medals, 12 Mention up against a defending force not “PUNJAB”;which they earned with in Dispatches and 11 COAS only vastly superior in strength but their flesh and blood. Commendation Cards. also strongly entrenched in built - Col Rohan Anand

Indian flag at Dograi (Picture borrowed from archives of 3 JAT)

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 15 Chakravyuh - Quiz

e are introducing Defence related brain-storming quiz titled “Chakravyuh” on from this Wissue onwards. The frequency of this quiz will be once in a month i.e. first issue of every month. Q1. When was Indian Air Force formed? Q7. What was the IAF operation in Kargil in 1999 code named? Q2. How is a deer in North America dear to IAF?(Refer Picture 1) Q8. IAF has rendered its services beyond Indian Territory on several occasions. It was once tasked to Q3. Born in 1919 at Lyalpur, this great aviator urgently transport Indian troops to an island nation flew in a flypast in 1947 over the Red Fort to mark which was about to witness a coup. The goal was India’s Independence. He has held many important achieved in a remarkable way. Name the island appointments, including that of Governor nation? of Delhi from 1989 to 1990. He holds a unique distinction as on date. Identify him and the coveted Q9. Where in India is the Institute of Aerospace distinction.(Refer Picture 2) Medicine located? Q4. From where is “Nabhah Sparsham Deeptam” the Q10. A forward Indian airbase in the Western Sector motto of IAF derived. (Refer Picture 3) has an auditorium named “Nirmal”.What is so special about the name? Q5. What is the expanded form of MOF in the field of Air Defence? Q11. Late Wing Commander GR Mulky of IAF was one of the founding members and inspiration behind Q6. IAF landed a C-130J aircraft at an altitude of KQA. What is KQA? 16,700ft above sea level on 20 Aug 2013, very close to China. Identify the airfield. (Refer Picture 4) Q12. Identify the aircrafts shown in pics 5.

Pic 1(Refer Que 2) Pic 2(Refer Que 3) Pic 3 (Refer Que 4) Pic4 (Refer Que 6) Pic 5

ANSWERS 1 8 Oct 1932 2 The first aircraft used by IAF was the West land Wapiti. Wapiti is a species of deer found in North America. 3 Marshal of the Indian Air Force DFC. He is the only IAF officer to be promoted to the ‘Five Star’ rank and also the only such officer alive in all the three armed services of India.(Pic-1) 4 The Motto of Indian Air Force has been taken from eleventh chapter, verse 24 of the Gita, the Discourse given by Lord Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra during the Great War of Mahabharata. The Lord is showing His Supreme Divine form to Arjuna and the great form of the Lord is reaching the sky with glory, evoking fear and loss of self-control in the mind of Arjuna. The Indian Air Force, similarly, aims to overwhelm the adversaries with application of aerospace power in defence of the nation (Pic-2- IAF Logo). 5 Mobile Observation Flight 6 Daulat Beg Oldie (Pic-3) 7 Safed Sagar 8 Maldives 9 Bangalore 10. It is named after Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, the valiant pilot who attained martyrdom on 14 Dec 1971 after shooting down Pakistani aircrafts at Srinagar . He is the only awardee (posthumous) of Param Vir Chakra in IAF 11 Karnatak Quiz Association. 12 Pic 5 Gnat - The aircraft was nick named ‘Sabre Slayer’, which gave Gnatmares to Pakistani Pilots.

Note- Readers are welcome to give their feedback / contribute questions out of which one question will appear in the quiz alongwith the name of the contributor. email-ids are: [email protected] & defpronagpur@gmail. com.

- Wg Cdr SS Gangakhedkar

16 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 GOLDEN JUBILEE OF 1965 INDO-PAK WAR IAF CONDUCTS ULTRA MARATHON AND AERO EXPEDITIONS

ir Vice Marshal OEM Menon, ASOAWAC, flagged in theIAF Ultra Marathon and Microlight and twin Powered Hang glider (PHG) cross country expeditions at AF Station Hindon on September 19, 2015. These expeditions were organised by the Indian Air Force as a befitting tribute to the valour and sacrifice made by the Indian Armed forces during the 1965 Indo- Pak war. The Ultra Marathon was flagged-off on September 9, 2015 from Pathankot and culminated at Hindon on September 19, 2015 covering a distance of around 574 kms in 11 days covering major airbases enroute at Adampur, AVM OEM Menon, Senior Officer Administration, HQ Western Air Command Indian Air Halwar and Ambala. Seven air Force, flagged in and felicitated the IAF Ultra Marathon, Aero Expeditions teams. warriors participated in this extreme endurance event. Running an Yadav covered the distance in relay The crew for the microlight average of 55 kms per day, these format and were joined by Gp Capt comprised of Wg Cdr VS Shokeen Manoj Kumar who joined the team bravehearts endured scorching and Sgt Sunil whereas the two PHGs heat, blistering roads and intense from Ambala to Hindon covering a were piloted by Sqn Ldr WS Singh, exhaustion and dehydration, drawing distance of around 240 kms. on their will power and motivation. The Microlight and twin Sqn Ldr Ajmer Singh, Sgt ML Yadav, They were joined by a large no of air PHG expeditions were flagged Sgt Ram Mehar and Cpl Dobhal. warriors at the enroute air bases for on September 16, 2015 from AF AVM Menon complimented the distances upto 21 kms and 42 kms. Stn Pathankot and AF Stn Amritsar runners and the pilots for successfully Gp Capt VS Choudhary, respectively. These ultra-light aircraft Gp Capt Arvind Tripathi, Sqn Ldr landed at major airbases of WAC completing this unique odyssey and S Gayathri, and Cpl M Bishnoi such as Adampur, Halwara and also appreciated the efforts put in completed the entire ultra-marathon Amabala and gave motivational joy by all in ensuring the success of this distance of 574 kms, overcoming rides to air warriors and civilians to commemorative event. blisters, cramps and heat exhaustion. introduce them to the thrill of aero FgOffr S Dixit, Sgt GB Mishra, Sgt AK adventure sports. - Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 17 Shauryanjali Exhibition at Rajpath

INAUGURATION BATTLE ENCLOSURES

EX-SERVICEMEN & VEER NARIS

VISIT BATTLE ENCLOSURES A heart warming exhibition showcasing the grit and valour of the Indian “Soldier. I salute the brave martyrs of the Indian Armed Forces who sacrificed their present for our today. Every Indian should be proud to walk through this exhibition glorifying our victory in the 1965 War. My compliments to the team for organising this at such a grand scale” Mr Pranab Mukherjee, President of India

Excellent efforts to focus on the sacrifice by the Armed Forces/ Martyrs” “ Mr Manohar Parrikar, Defence Minister

A great experience. Absolutely a superb recreation. Very emotive and “nostalgic” Mr Arun Jaitley, Finance Minister

A wonderful tribute to our heroes of 1965. Great effort” “ Mr G Mohan Kumar, Defence Secretary

- Col Rohan Anand (Pics from MoD Photo Division) INDO – PAK WAR OF 1965 Valour of Punjab Regiment and Brigade of Guards

ighteen years after the first Indo-Pak War, and after Ehaving modernised its armed forces, Pakistan once again sent thousands of armed infiltrators into the State of Jammu & Kashmir in 1965, with a view of annexing the State. It timed and ill planned, this ‘misadventure’ back fired due to a strong reaction from Indian forces and total lack of support from the local population of the state. In this war, nine battalions of the Punjab Regiment were fully committed, with many coming out with flying colours, winning numerous honours and awards in the process. In Jammu & Kashmir itself five battalions of the Regiment took part. In the Uri Sector, after the failure of an initial battalion attack launched by 1 Para (Punjab), one of its reinforced companies under the command of Major (later Lt Gen) Ranjit Singh Dyal, captured the famous Hajipir Pass on August 29, after a heroic battle. Apart Artillery in action from winning the Battle Honour of ‘Hajipir’, this unit In the Kargil Sector, 2nd Punjab (1 Guards) was also earned one MVC, one Vir Chakra (VrC), two Sena ordered to evict Pakistani forces which had crossed the Medals (SMs) and four Mentioned-in-Despatches. The Cease Fire Line (CFL) and occupied the 13,060 feet Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) was awarded to Major Dyal. high feature known as ‘Kala Pahar’. In May 1965, In the same Sector that very day, the capture of Pakistan had increased hostilities along the Indo-Pak Bedori feature near Hajipir became possible due to determined efforts of all ranks of 19 Punjab under the command Lt Col Sampuran Singh. He was the proud recipient of both MVC and VrC respectively. The unit also won the Battle Honours of ‘Bedori’ and ‘Hajipir’. In the Akhnoor Sector, 9 Punjab took part in the Kalidhar area where it repulsed two ferocious attacks on September 6 and 9, 1965. The unit earned one VrC, three SMs, four Mentioned-in-Despatches and three Chief of the Army Staff’s (COAS) Commendation Cards in this sector, apart from the Battle Honour of ‘Kalidhar’.

On the bank of Ichhogil canal A proud moment after the unfurling of the Indian Triculour at Hajipir

20 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 Maj Ranjit Singh Dyal, proud hero of Hajipir A view of ‘Kala Pahar’ border and especially along the Line of Control (LoC) in Mechanised Infantry) had the honour to capture a Jammu and Kashmir. The Pakistan Army had occupied portion of ‘Ichogil Canal’. 13 Punjab (Jind), toio, was Kala Pahar and adjacent features, thereby dominating tasked to capture the Ichogil Canal as part of a brigade Srinagar-Kargil-Leh road. On June 2, 1965 the unit offensive. The leading battalion 3 Jat, which had crossed fought a gallant, almost hand-to-hand battle lasting the Canal on September 8, had to move back and the more than six hours. On June 5, 1965, after a battle brigade redeployed at Wagah Check Post. lasting six hours, the first battalion of Brigade of Guards On September 22, 13 Punjab (Jind) was tasked successfully eliminated the enemy and re-occupied Kala to attack Dograi, an industrial town on the suburbs of Pahar. Though it suffered heavy casualties, it inflicted Lahore. It advanced astride the famous Grand Trunk almost twice the number of casualties on the enemy, (GT) Road with a view to assault its objective frontally. thus earning on VrC, two SMs and various other awards. Due to heavy enemy opposition the attack was stalled, In the same sector 17 Punjab was directed to but once a combined and determined assault went in, capture Point 13620, which was occupied by Pakistani the objective, to include Milestone 13, was captured, In troops. In a brilliant action involving a silent attack, the this successful battle four Sherman tanks, eight Jeeps, six unit accomplished the task on August 15, 1965 without Recoilless Guns (RCLs) and a large quality of arms and any casualty. ammunition were captured, and both Jat and 13 Punjab In the western sector of Punjab, four Punjabi earned the Battle Honour of ‘Dograi’. Battalions participated in the war. 7 Punjab (now 8 Not to be out done, on September 10, 1965, 16

Lt Col Sampuran Singh (Later ) at Bedori Enemy soldiers taken captive by Punjabis

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 21 Jubilant troops of 13 Punjab Punjab (Patiala) fought a gallant action at Barki town, operation in the Fazilka Sector. Its achievements included situated about 800 yards east of the Barki Bridge, repulsing a major enemy attack, apart from capturing a spanning the Ichogil Canal. Inspite of heavy enemy fire vast assortment of enemy war like stores. However, the coming from the outskirts of Barki, petering the Patiala’s spot light in this operation fell on the burly Havildar Jassa first assault, the unit quickly changed its Forming Up Singh, who beat back a number of enemy assaulting Place (FUP) and rushed forward its reserve companies troops single handedly with the butt of his rifle, and when from a different direction, thereby taking the enemy by that broke he swung ammunition belt boxes over his total surprise. Though the latter destroyed the bridge head like a hammer to knock down many more enemy while withdrawing, it suffered 44 fatal casualties and six soldiers. This action earned him VrC. of its soldiers were taken captive by the Patialas. The During the next years 22, 23, 24 Punjab were also battalion earned the Battle Honour of ‘Barki’ for this raised, bringing the total number of Punjab battalions valiant action. to 17. 14 Punjab (Nabha Akal) took part in a successful - Wg Cdr Samir Gangakhedkar

Troops of 16 Punjab advancing towards Barki Bridge

22 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 Air Chief Marshal Visits Lucknow

hairman Chiefs of Staff CCommittee (COSC) and Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha was on a visit to Lucknow on September 3, 2015. The Air Chief addressed the audience at La Martiniere College during a special function organised to honour its war veteran alumni. The war heroes who were felicitated included the legendary Keelor brothers and Flt Lt Alfred Tyrone Cooke of the 65 war fame and Air Vice Marshal Harbans Parminder Singh, the hero of 71 war. Mrs Patracia Keelor, wife of Late Wg Cdr Trevor Keelor unveiled the memorial tablet in honour of her late husband. AVM Harbans Perminder Singh receiving Memento From CAS While addressing the gathering, the Air chief said, “The courage, that is acknowledged by the entire operation Grand Slam aimed at valour and leadership displayed by nation with respect. The greatest cutting off J&K from India”. the legendary Keelor brothers and achievement of IAF during the 1965 Coming to IAF’s transition, the Flt Lt Alfred Tyrone Cooke during war was to Thwart Pakistan Army’s Air Chief said, “IAF has transformed 1965 war, are striking examples armour thrust in Chhamb-Jaurian into a multi spectrum strategic of decisive impact of air power Sector which resulted in failure of force. The growth of IAF is aligned with India’s growth and is aimed at acquiring the requisite strategic footprint for exerting our influence in our growing areas of interest”. Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha acknowledged the immense contribution of all the veterans in shaping the Indian Armed Forces. He said that the present and future generations shall forever be indebted to our esteemed Armed Forces Veterans for their deeds of courage and sacrifice. The Air Chief concluded his speech by complimenting the principal, staff and students of the college and acknowledged the rich legacy of the college with several of its alumni joining the Armed Forces and achieving the great laurels, many of which will have been decorated with gallantry awards. Mrs Patracia Keelor unveiling the Tablet - Gp Capt BB Pande

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 23 PARAMOTOR EXPEDITION Fascinating Demonstration

overing 219 Km of aerial distance over three days Cthe Para Motor Expedition undertaken by the Panther Division was flagged in by Lt Gen K J Singh, GOC-in-C, Western Command at TA Railway Ground, Chandigarh. The expedition was undertaken to honour the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the Nation during the 1965 Indo-Pak War. The Expedition Team consisted 12 paramotorists led by Rajiv Mishra had flying team supported by a ground team which includes a Medical team, Security team and a Rescue team sailed through Kapurthala, Harike, Khasa, Dera Baba Nanak, Tibri and Ropar beore arriving at city beautiful. The expedition had four Para Gliders who had flown at a speed of 25 to 75 Km per hour at a height of approximately 500 ft to 700 ft. Earlier, this was A Paramotorist approaches for landing

Expedition team leader handing over the expedition flag to Lt Gen KJ Singh, Paramotor of Indian Army GOC-in-C, WC flagged off from Jalandhar on 12th by Maj Gen Deepak Dhanda, COS Vajra Corps. The event started with a colourful and melodious Army Pipe Band Display followed by daredevilry of the 1 Para (Special Forces) Team those who carried out slithering operations and other combat demonstrations from army Aviation Helicopters. . The expedition was given a warm welcome by the audience. The Army Commander complimented the team for a job well done and presented them mementos. Besides, army officers, JCOs and jawans with their families, a large number of school students and NCC cadets also witnessed the fascinating event took place in Lt Gen KJ Singh, GOC-in-C, WC getting introduced with the team air and ground simultaneously. members - Pradip Dasgupta

24 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 Rewa Annual Day Celebrations

he Annual Day Celebration and TPrize distribution ceremony was conducted on September 9, 2015 at Sainik School Rewa, Madhya Pradesh. Air Marshal KS Gill, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central Air Command was the Chief Guest of the function.

Guard of Honour to the Chief Guest by the cadets. It overall championship banner was was followed by a band display and presented to Satpura House and the briefing by the Principal. The briefing coveted NDA banner was presented included the latest initiatives taken to Vindhya House. by the school for improvement in In his address to the cadets, training of the cadets. Air Marshal KS Gill commented the The Celebration and prize sterling performance of the cadets distribution ceremony were held at in the Board Examinations. He Manekshaw auditorium. The Chief emphasized that the school should Guest was welcomed by the School not lose sight of its objective and Captain. The Principal introduced must focus on attracting more and the Chief Guest, Air Marshal KS Gill more cadets to join the defence to the audience. It was followed by forces. He advised the cadets to a very colourful cultural program. At dedicate their life to the progress of the end of the program, Chief Guest the nation. Presentation of Banner presented ‘Banners’ and ‘Colours’ During the visit, the Chief Guest to the cadets. The academic also laid the foundation stone of Air Marshal KS Gill landed at banner was presented to Vindhya the Indoor Sports Complex and the the school helipad. On arrival, a House and the sports banner was Motivational Hall. Guard of Honour was presented presented to Satpura House. The - Gp Capt BB Pande

Laying of Foundation Stone of Indoor Sports Complex Presentation of Best Cadet Award

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 25 AWWA Day Celebrations

WWA Day was celebrated on August 23, 2015 Ato mark its existence of 49 years. The event was presided over by Mrs Namita Suhag, President AWWA. The event, organised by HQ Delhi Area, was held in NCC Auditorium and was attended by 28 Veer Naris and 742 wives from the Army fraternity. The President AWWA in her message on AWWA Day,conveyed her greetings and best wishes to the AWWA fraternity. She congratulated all AWWA functionaries for their devotion and selfless service to the association. The message was followed by achievements of the past one year given by Mrs Payal Sharma, General Secretary AWWA. President AWWA inaugurating the event The highlights of the event included felicitation of Veer Naris, competitions on knowledge, talent and home remedies (medicines). A declamation contest on subjects ‘Awareness about child abuse’, ‘Challenges of traditional culture vis-a-vis modern outlook’ and ‘Psychological problems in teenagers’ was organised. An entertainment programme sponsored by volunteers from Centre for Creative Expressions, a media entertainment group was also organised, which was appreciated by one and all. To mark the occasion the President AWWA also released the 2015 edition of AWWA Journal, Asha Greeting Cards, Thank You Cards and the Gift Wrapping sheets. The speciality of greeting cards and gift wrapping Release of AWWA Journal sheets is that they are selected from the exclusively designed cards by the students of Asha Schools from all over India. The event was also attended by Mrs Kiran Rai, Vice President AWWA and other wives of all ranks of Army. The event was hosted under the guidance of Mrs Radhika Ravindran, President Regional AWWA, Delhi Area.

Message by President AWWA The President AWWA in the end met all Veer Naris personally and passed suitable directions to resolve their problems. The packed audience - Col Rohan Anand

26 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 NCC in Limca Book of Records

n September 24, 2015, National Cadet Corps was Opresented the certificate by Limca Book of Records for the ‘Largest Yoga performance simultaneously by a single uniformed youth organisation (NCC) at multiple venues on International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2015’. The certificate was presented by Mrs Vijaya Ghose, Editor Limca Book of Records to Lt Gen Chakravarty, DGNCC in theaugust presence of Defence Minister, Mr Manohar Parrikar. Based on the encouragement given by the Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi during his address in the Prime Minister’s NCC Rally on January 28, 2015, NCC created this record with 9,50,210 NCC cadets performing Yoga simultaneously at 1767 venuespan India on June 21, 2015. said it was an excellent achievement for the NCC and In a function held at Vigyan Bhawan, Mr Manohar the Organisation would continue to steadfastly carry Parrikar congratulated the NCC for this extraordinary out its task of grooming the youth as leaders. He also performance and for making the Nation proud with its thanked Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Ayush for achievement. He complimented the staff of NCC and their support to NCC in conducting the pan India event all the cadets for their hard work and dedication. on International Day of Yoga. The Director General of NCC Lt Gen A Chakravarty - Lt Col Umang Kohli Tribute to the Hero of Chhamb-Jaurian Battle of 1965 War

n the eve of Golden Jubilee celebrations of the OIndo-Pak War of 1965 and as befitting tribute to the Gallant Hero of Chhamb-Jaurian’ Major Bhaskar Roy, Maha Vir Chakra, the Crossed Swords Division, rechristened the Crossed Swords Sainik Institute as Bhaskar Sainik Institute on August 31, 2015. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Mrs Nita Roy, w/o (Late) Major Bhaskar Roy alongwith General Shanker Roy Chowdhury (Retired) and Major General Kulpreet Singh, General Officer Commanding, Crossed Swords Division. had technologically avant-grade tanks, Major Bhaskar Major Bhaskar Roy was born on April 4, 1936 and Roy employed his armour boldly and most skillfully. was commissioned in 20 LANCERS on December 1956. He ably stemmed the enemy advance and stalled the On September 1, 1965, when the Pakistani forces enemy’s attempt to encircle 191 Infantry Brigade and the attacked our positions in Chhamb-Jaurian Sector, Major bridge on river Chenab. In the tank to tank battle that Bhaskar Roy was commanding the ‘C’ Squadron of 20 ensued, Major Bhaskar Roy with his actuate leadership LANCERS positioned in the area. Undaunted by the destroyed 13 enemy tanks and disabled several others. enemy which was, six times in numerical superiority and - Lt Col Manish Mehta

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 27 Make in India Seminar

seminar on ‘Make in India- A Facilitating Boots on Ground’ was conducted under the aegis of HQ Northern Command. The seminar organised with the aim of providing a perspective for the domestic Industry on the technology and equipment needs of the Indian Army to meet the aspirations of troops deployed in field. The seminar was inaugurated by Lt Gen DS Hooda, GOC-in-C Northern Command. The Northern Army Commander emphasized the need for close partnership and synergy tactical requirement of combat units. in operational areas, Make in India in Defence sector-the PSU in the efforts of the public and private The topic for discussions in perspective”. sectors alongwith the Army to merge the Seminar was “Operational - Col SD Goswami contemporary technologies with perspective to infusion of technology New Building of ECHS Polyclinic Inaugurated

p keeping his commitment for their families. Other senior serving making this project a success. Gen Uhanding over the new permanent officers from Chandimandir and Singh also extended his gratitude building of ECHS polyclinic of city local Air Force station also attended towards Air Cmde SK Indoria, AOC, beautiful to the armed forces veterans the inauguration ceremony. Earlier 12 Wing AF for his co operation in on western command raising day, this was located at sector 29 on a getting the land and further admin Lt Gen KJ Singh, GOC-in-C, temporary site. assistances in different stages as Western Command on September While speaking on the occasion it arised. Army Commander also 17, 2015 inaugurated the new the Army Commander expressed appreciated the effort of Brigadier polyclinic at Sector 47A during his gratitude to Air Marshal RS Matharu, station commander a ceremony which was attended Randhir Singh (Retd) for his valued Chandimandir and Col Sandhu Oi/c by large number of veterans and involvement and advice towards ECHS poly clinic. He now invited further suggestions from Veterans towards improving and making the polyclinic the best. The new permanent building is located at sector 47A on Air Force land. A total of 3533 sq yds of land thus made available for this purpose. This Polyclinic at Sector 47 will enhance the reach of this welfare health scheme to more than 39,800 ex-servicemen residing in Lt Gen KJ Singh, GOC-in-C, WC alongwith armed forces veteran and senior serving and around the tricity. officers of Army after inaugurating the new building of ECHS poly clinic, Chandigarh. - Pradip Dasgupta

28 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 Mr Maroof Raza Addresses DSSC, Wellington

he Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington Tis a premier Tri-Services training institution of the Indian Armed Forces, which trains select middle level officers in the ever evolving cardinals of joint war fighting and nurtures the future military leadership of our nation. Curriculum at DSSC entails lectures by eminent speakers, which include Governors, Diplomats, Academicians, Economists, Corporate Leaders, Management Experts and Serving/ Retired Officers to share professional percepts on eclectic subjects conforming to College syllabi. As part of this, Mr Maroof Raza, Strategic Affairs Expert visited the DSSC on September 21,2015. Mr Maroof Raza, Strategic Affairs Expert with Lt Gen SK Gadeock, Commandant and DSSC officers at Defence Services Staff College Mr Raza witnessed the multispectral transformation in Wellington. that has taken shape in the pristine campus and development of infrastructure at DSSC. He, thereafter Later in the evening, a customary ‘Cocktail’ was interacted with Lt Gen SK Gadeock, Commandant DSSC hosted in honour of the visiting dignitary at the Drona and addressed the Faculty and students of the 71st Staff Officers’ Mess, Wellington, wherein Mr Maroof Raza Course and shared his perspective on ‘India-Pakistan interacted with the Faculty and students and discussed relations - The Troubled Past, Present Dilemmas and the issues pertinent to this subject. Uncertain Future’. - T Shanmugam AIFD Students Feliciated

rmy Institute of Fashion and Design (AIFD) students positive attitude for continuously winning the awards in Ahave won the 2015 edition of the Metrolife Fashion the state and national level compet itions. Show in Bengaluru. The competition is divided into two zones to allow Major General AK Singh, General Officer maximum number of colleges to participate. The two Commanding, Karnataka and Kerala Sub Area and four winners of each zone are eventually pitted against Chairman of the Institute Felicitated the models, each other in the grand finale. This year AIFD has choreographer’s, Designers, back stage students for their been outstanding, winning accolades at the first zone hard work to win the prestigious trophy. In his speech, selection itself, by being placed first against 20 plus he appreciated the team work of the institute for their prestigious institutes. A total of 22 colleges including the Army Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology participated in the competition. In the grand finale of eight colleges with the theme “Page Turners”, the Army Institute of Fashion & Design stood head and shoulders above the others, in their creative vision with the their theme, “ Black Sparrow”. The imaginative choreography was by Rohit Rajput of B.Sc IIIrd Year and Apoorva Sharma of B.Sc IInd Year. The models were Oshinla Pradhan, Nidhi Kumari, Saumya Singh, Purva Shivkumar and Kavita of B.Sc IIIrd year and Arpita Hota, Rachika Dahiya, Soniya, Swati Sharma and Rimpi Parmar of B.Sc IInd Year. - Dr MS Patil

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 29 Blood Donation Camp

Blood Donation Camp is being organised at Colaba A and Kalina Military Cantonments, Mumbai from 14 to 16 Sep 2015. Mrs Naina Edwards, wife of Major General Rajiv Edwards, Genera Officer Commanding UM &G Sub Area, inaugurated the blood donation camp at Central Medical Inspection Room of Colaba Military Station this morning. Leading his men, Major General Rajiv Edwards started the camp by donating blood. The initiative has been taken by Headquarter, Uttar Maharashtra & Gujarat Sub Area (UM & G Sub Area) to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the 1965 Indo-Pak War. While the normal course, the National Blood Donation Day is on 1st October each year. Major General Rajiv Edwards donating blood at the camp However, this noble venture by the Army in Mumbai is Red Cross Society and INHS Asvini. Speaking on the a special tribute to the valiant martyrs who made the occasion Dr Sunil Rajadhyakshs, HoD Blood Transfusion supreme sacrifice for the nation during the 1965 war. Department of Tata Memorial Hospital, said that there is The camp which is being conducted in collaboration considerable shortage of blood in Mumbai and this leads with the Tata Memorial Hospital and Indian Red Cross to avoidable deaths among patients especially cancer Society is expected to be attended by over 500 serving and dengue affected patients and those undergoing soldiers and families. The blood collected at the event surgery. is being donated to the Tata Memorial Hospital, Indian Cdr Rahul Sinha Medal Award Function at AIM Kolkata

rmy Institute of Management Kolkata – A NAAC established on July 28, 1997 by the Army Welfare Aaccredited and ISO 9001 : 2008 certified Institute Education Society (AWES), New Delhi. It conducts AICTE organized their 15th Medal Award Function for the approved state-of-the-art management programme passing-out students of MBA-16 batch at the Albert Ekka (MBA) for wards of Army and general category. It is one Auditorium, HQ Eastern Command on Sep 12, 2015. of the ranked A++ category B-School in the country. Army Institute of Management Kolkata, was The 15th Medal Award Function was inaugurated by Gen Shankar Roychowdhury, former Chief of the Army Staff, being the Chief Guest of the ceremony. Medals were awarded by the Chief Guest to students for their outstanding performances. The Chief of the Army Staff All Round Rolling Trophy awarded to Ms Debalina Chakraborty. Ms Sunita Shee was awarded the Army Commander’s Gold Medal for her 2nd best all-round performance. Ms Nikita T Jose was awarded Patron’s Silver Medal for third best all-round performance and Mr Sunil Gupta received the Chairman’s Silver Medal for Best in academics within Army (OR) category. Lt Gen AS Bedi, the officiating Chief of Staff, HQ Eastern Command and Officiating Patron, AIM Kolkata handed over the certificates to the successful students on this ceremony. - Gp Capt TK Singha

30 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 Gunners Challenge the Zanskar River

o distill the spirit of the Zanskar river, Golkonda TGunners, undertook a White Water Rafting Expedition on the challenging Zanskar river in the Ladakh region to celebrate the 13th Regiment of Artillery Reunion and Sixth Raising Anniversary of the Regiment. Zanskar River originates from high altitude plateaus of Sarchu on the border of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. The river presents opportunities for rafting enthusiasts by providing continuous torrents of class II to V rapids in deep gorges enroute which are famous amongst the river rafters world over. The Zanskar White Water Rafting expedition commenced on September 10, 2015 from Remala in Padam (Zanskar) and was flagged-off by Brigadier Ranjeet Singh Commander Top Gun Brigade. The expedition concluded on September 14, 2015 at During the journey, the rafters interacted with tourists Nimu The team of 20 rafters from Golkonda Gunners from all over the country and spread the leadership successfully completed the expedition in five days qualities and espirit-de-corps of the Indian Army. covering a distance of 160 kms. - Col NN Joshi Visit to Parishram AWWA

rs Namita Suhag, President President AWWA interacted with the have other intervening household MAWWA, visited Parishram Parishram AWWA team and was commitments. The facility of work AWWA on August 20, 2015. happy to note that it worked as a from home has ensured that the Parishram AWWA deals with homogeneous unit with high work Veer Naris, Widows, and serving manufacturing of low technology ethos and camaraderie. personnel wives can contribute positively to the income of the house hospital clothing and other products The institute is a boon for and keep themselves engaged such as school dresses. The the ladies who want to work but in productive work. The products manufactured help the hospitals and Army Schools getting better quality products that at cheaper rates. The President AWWA appreciated the efforts of Parishram AWWA in providing a win win situation for all the stakeholders. The working ladies are being paid well and as per their output. The quality products with competitive rate are being supplied timely to hospitals and schools. The President AWWA wished all the staff the very best and exhorted them to continue good work for a noble cause. President AWWA interacting with ladies of Parishram AWWA - Col Rohan Anand

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 31 54th Inter Services Squash Championship-2015

he prestigious 54th Inter Services TSquash Championship 2015 commenced at Air Force Station Lohegaon, Pune on September 4, 2015 with a colourful and impressive flag hoisting ceremony. The championship was held from September 4, 2015 to September 7, 2015 on behalf of South Western Air Command under the aegis of Services Sports Control Board. The closing ceremony was held at 1600 hrs on September 7, 2015. The Chief Guest for closing ceremony was AK Bharti, Air Officer Commanding 2 Wing Air Force. Commodore PK Garg, Secretary, Group Photograph of Air Commodore AK Bharti, AOC, AF Station, Pune alongwith the Sports Control Board and Arjuna winning team: IAF: and the selected players to represent Services team Awardee also graced the occasion. A total of four teams, comprising The aim of the championship was Indian Air Force won the event by two from the Indian Army and one to select the best players for the beating Indian Navy. The IAF team each from the Indian Navy and Services team. comprised of Junior Warrant Officer Indian Air Force, represented by a The championship trophy was Sandeep Jangra, Aircraftsman total of 24 players competed for the won by Junior Warrant Officer Naveen Jangra, Sergeant AS Keskar honours under two categories - Team Sandeep Jangra of IAF in individual and Sergeant G Vicky Ramavtar. and Individual Championships. category. In team category the - Mahesh Iyengar Inter-Services Handball Championship Kicks-Off

he 30th Inter Services Handball TChampionship 2015-16 matches commenced at INS Virbahu on September 8, 2015. An annual Tri- Services event participated by all the three Services Team i.e. Army Red, Army Green, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force Teams. The aim of the championship is to select Services Handball team to participate in the forthcoming National Handball Championship. Rear Admiral SV Bhokare, Flag Officer Command Submarines was the Chief Guest of the opening ceremony and declared the championship open. Army Green and Air Force Team keenly contesting in the Inter Services Hand Ball - Cdr CG Raju Championship matches

32 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015 1965 War Cycling Expedition Team Flagged-In

he Rising Star Cycling Expedition which is being organised Tto commemorate the overall victory of Indian Armed Forces in 1965 war reached Asal Uttar on September 9, 2015 to be the part of this celebration. The team was flagged- in by the Chief Minister of Punjab Mr Prakash Singh Badal in presence of Lt Gen KJ Singh, Army Commander, Western Command, along with large gathering of war veterans, veer naris and others. The chief minister interacted with the team and applauded them for the great initiative and wished them for the journey ahead. The Rising Star Cycling Expedition will further continue their journey to ultimately become the part of mega Carnival on September 20,2015 at Rajpath, New Delhi. - Naresh Vig Appointments

Air Marshal Jagjeet Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief at Headquarters Maintenance Command has been appointed as Honorary ADC to the President of India. After completing his Bachelor of Engineering degree in Electrical Engineering (Hons) from Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala in 1976, he joined the Indian Air Force in 1977 and was commissioned in the Aeronautical Engineering Branch. He is also a post graduate in Electrical Engineering from Punjab University, Chandigarh and is a Post Graduate Diploma holder in Management from IGNOU. He has also undergone the Technical Staff Course at IAT, Pune. The officer has rich experience in maintenance management of aircraft and systems and has held various field and staff appointments. He has commanded a Technical Type Training School for fighter aircraft and a Base Repair Depot. He has also held the appointments of Chief Engineering Officer at Air Force Academy, Command Engineering Officer at HQ SWAC and Senior Maintenance Staff Officer at HQ CAC. The Air Officer has been Director General (Aircraft), Director General (Systems) and Air Officer-in-Charge Maintenance at Air HQ before assuming the present appointment. Air Marshal Jagjeet Singh is an avid sportsman and likes to play Squash and Golf. In his spare time, he loves to read and is very fond of going for long walks. He is a religious and God fearing person and also likes to listen to soft music. Air Marshal Jagjeet Singh has been decorated with Vishisht Seva Medal and has been commended by the Chief of the Air Staff on two occasions.

Lt Gen Satish Kumar Dua took over as GOC, Chinar Corps on August 26, 2015. Lt Gen Satish Kumar Dua was commissioned into the Regiment of Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry in December 1979 and has thus been associated with the soldiers and people of the state of J&K ever since he began his journey in the Army. A Graduate of Defence services Staff College, Higher Command Course and National Defence College, the General Officer has held varied prestigious command, staff and instructional appointments that include command of his Unit 8 JAK LI (Siachen) and Brigade in J&K and command of a new Counter Terrorism Force, IGAR (East) which he raised in the North East. He has been a Commando Instructor and has also represented the country as the Defence attaché in Vietnam, Combodia and Laos. On assuming command, he conveyed his greeting to the Awaam of Kashmir and the entire Chinar Corps fraternity. - Wg Cdr Samir S Gagakhedkar and Col NN Joshi

October 1-15, 2015 Sainik Samachar 33 PHOTOCALL

Mr Justice Dilip Babasaheb Bhosale, acting Chief Justice of the High Court of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh unveiling the plaqe to mark the inauguration of the Circuit Bench of the Armed Forces Tribunal, Regional Bench, Chennai at Hyderabad at the 1 EME Centre Complex on September 14, 2015. Mr Justice Prakash Tatia Chairperson, Armed Forces Tribunal, New Delhi is also seen

Mountaineering Expedition: Indian Army mountaineering expedition to Mt Stok Kangri was flagged off by GOC, Fire and Fury Corps on September 9, 2015. The GOC handed over the ice axe and flags to the team leader and marked the start of the expedition.

Felicitation Ceremony: Veer Naaris & Veterans at the Golden Jubilee Commemoration of 1965 Indo-Pak War at Military Station Gandhinagar Source: K Ramesh, Col Rohan Anand and Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman

34 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2015