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Home , Digendra Kumar, Line of Control

No. 07/2021 AN PUBLICATION July 2021 BATTLE OF GARIBPUR (NOV 1971)

n 21 November 1971, a major battle ensued on the Eastern Front and it O happened before the official declaration of war on 03 December 1971. Garibpur was a finger- shaped land protrusion into from erstwhile East in the Boyra Salient. The Pakistani Artillery was using the salient and Garibpur protrusion to launch Artillery fire assaults and raids into Indian positions along the and in the depth areas. With war imminent, both the Indian Army and the Mukti Bahini were active and engaged in aggressive attack. The Infantry with its recoilless guns held the domination of the enemy by patrolling and raids. area of Garibpur and tanks were sent ahead to meet A decision was taken to prepare for the Indian the Pakistani charge. The counter-attack came as offensive to secure the area by denying Pakistanis expected as the enemy moved 107 Infantry Brigade use of the salient, with a view to capture Garibpur. and an Armoured Squadron of M24 Chaffee tanks 14 Punjab along with ‘C’ Squadron, 45 Cavalry were from Jessore. The first attack came at 0600 hours tasked for the operation. and ‘C’ Squadron 45 Cavalry was well prepared. The Squadron Commander, Major DS Narang had The attacking forces planned a silent attack on skillfully deployed his PT-76 light tanks, which night 20–21 November and moved a patrol ahead of stopped the enemy assault in its tracks by accurate the main body of troops. The patrol unfortunately and lethal fire. Three more assaults came as the encountered an enemy patrol and a clash ensued Pakistani Brigade stepped up the tempo and ferocity thus losing the element of surprise. CO 14 of its attacks, but 14 PUNJAB and ‘C’ Squadron PUNJAB then ordered the troops to close in onto stood firm and fought ferociously, even as the last the objective swiftly so as to regain the initiative. assault reached within 25 yards of their frontlines. Four companies of the battalion and a squadron of Pakistani losses were 60-70 killed, 100 wounded tanks swiftly occupied Garibpur by 0300 hours on and 11 tanks destroyed, whereas Indian losses were 21 November after fierce fighting. The enemy was seven killed, 22 wounded and three tanks only. expected to react violently and resort to a counter- attack to retake the position. A recce patrol and an In this glorious battle, one Infantry battalion Artillery observer was sent ahead of the position in and a squadron of tanks stopped and beaten back the foggy night and the patrol picked up sounds of a Pakistani brigade attack. Major DS Narang was approaching Pakistani tanks. A message was sent to severely injured and succumbed on the battlefield. the battalion and the troops & tanks then readjusted He was later awarded the for his to face the enemy from the expected direction of exemplary leadership and gallantry.

2 Baatcheet July 2021 July 2021 From the Editor’s Desk

he Indo-Pakistan Conflict was fought between May to July T 1999 in Kargil & districts, along the Line of Control extending from in the West to in the East. The conflict is referred to as Operation VIJAY (Kargil). The cause of this conflict was the infiltration of Pakistan's into positions on the Indian side of the Line of Control overlooking and threatening National Highway 1D. This was one of the toughest and longest campaigns of modern times, as battles took place in high Battle of Garibpur (November 1971) ...... 2 altitude areas at heights above 12,000 feet. Our valiant soldiers ably supported by the Artillery Chief’s Page...... 4 and fought legendary battles in In Focus...... 5 Kargil, , Kaksar, and Turtuk Sectors. Snippets...... 6-7 Kargil Vijay Diwas is commemorated on 26 Kargil Vijay Diwas Special ...... 8-9 July every year as a saga of gallantry and valour J & K and Diary...... 10 of the battles fought in the most inhospitable terrain in the World. North East Diary...... 11 braving most difficult terrain, battling extreme Communique...... 12 weather conditions fought valiantly on the steep slopes of icy peaks with grit and valour, thus Welfare and Empowerment...... 13 emerging victorious defeating evil designs of the Training...... 14 enemy. 26 July 2021 marks the 22nd anniversary Sports & Adventure ...... 15 of the Kargil Conflict. The event commemorates the sacrifices of our comrades, rejoicing their Ceremonial Events ...... 16 victory and renewing the vow for the future. The entire Nation commemorates our brave service personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line CONTACT FOR QUERIES of duty and strive together to ensure territorial Publisher : Additional Directorate General of Strategic Communication, IHQ of MoD (Army) integrity and pride of our great Nation. Office : B-30, South Block, New Delhi - 110011 Tele : Off - 23018665, 33332/33249 Indian Army Website : www.indianarmy.nic.in or www.indianarmy.gov.in Facebook : www.facebook.com/indianarmy.adgpi Twitter : www.twitter.com/adgpi Editor Baatcheet Email : [email protected] ADG Strat Comn : [email protected] Brig PI : [email protected] Colonel IO : [email protected] Colonel Media : [email protected] Colonel Social Media : [email protected] Webmaster IA : [email protected] Contact No : 011-23018665, 33249 (ASCON) Printer : Xtreme Office Aids (Pvt.) Ltd, N D-46 Ph : 011-45627583 Baatcheet July 2021 3 We request our readers to send good quality, high resolution photographs for cover page of Baatcheet. CHIEF’S PAGE During his recent visit to , General MM The COAS accompanied by the Northern Army Naravane, COAS gifted three simulators developed Commander visited the formations and units in by Simulator Development Division, Secunderabad to from 02 to 03 June 2021. Local Commanders include an Infantry Weapon Training Simulator(IWTS), briefed the COAS on the existing security situation and a Universal Driving Simulator (UDS) and a Virtual the measures instituted to foil infiltration by terrorists Reality Based 84mm Rocket Launcher Training from POJK. The COAS interacted with the troops and Simulator (VR-RL) to the COAS of Bangladesh Army. complimented them for their high morale and the high These simulators will assist in the efficient training of state of operational preparedness. While appreciating soldiers and honing their firing and driving skills. the current state of peace prevailing along the Line of Control, he cautioned all commanders and troops to not let their guard down and remain prepared to meet any emerging security challenges effectively.

The COAS visited HQ Army , Shimla on 25-26 June 2021 to review the training and doctrinal aspects being developed in the Army. He was briefed on issues encompassing doctrinal corrections, operational challenges, technology infusion & training methodology and apprised about a number of initiatives being undertaken to maximize the effectiveness of military training, and steps taken to make Professional Military Education more contemporary and responsive to current challenges.

Retiring Officers’ Seminar for officers superannuating The COAS had telephonic interaction with Lieutenant on 30 June was conducted at New Delhi on 22 June General Richard M Burr, Chief of the Australian Army 2021. The COAS commended all retiring officers for on 30 June 2021 and discussed issues of bilateral their service to the Nation and bid them adieu. defence cooperation.

4 Baatcheet July 2021 In focus 7TH INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA Indian Army celebrated 7th International Day of Yoga on 21 June 2021. Yoga sessions including asana, pranayama and dhyana sessions were organised for all ranks and their families by various Formations/ Military Stations across the country, wherein the importance of discipline and harmony between the mind and the body was reinforced in all the participants who were unanimous in acknowledging the benefits of Yoga. In some Stations, online Yoga sessions were organised with full adherence to COVID-19 protocols. A soldier has to be physically and mentally fit at all times and yoga fulfils this twin purpose.

Troops deployed in forward areas in performed Yoga to spread the message of physical, mental and spiritual well being from the highest mountains and the picturesque valleys. The Army encourages its troops to incorporate Yoga in daily life to remain mentally and physically agile.

Yoga Day at MONUSCO Force HQ in Democratic Republic of Congo was organised by 301 Infantry Brigade Group. The event was attended by the MONUSCO Force Commander and 125 other peacekeepers. The importance of healthy body in a healthy mind including control of breath was explained to the attendees.

Baatcheet July 2021 5 snippets Hon’ble Raksha Mantri (RM) accompanied by the COAS, visited Ladakh from 27-29 June 2021 to carry out a comprehensive review of India’s operational readiness in Eastern Ladakh. The RM was briefed on the prevailing security situation and operational preparedness by GOC Fire and Fury Corps, wherein he was apprised about various aspects related to the deployment of troops and measures taken to deal with any misadventure by the adversary. The RM also inaugurated several infra projects constructed by the BRO and interacted with troops deployed in the region.

GOC-in-C reviewed the operational GOC-in-C Sapta Shakti Command reviewed operational preparedness of the Shatrujeet Brigade on 05 June 2021. preparedness & mission reliability of a formation of The Army Commander exhorted all ranks to maintain a Chetak Corps undergoing training at Mahajan Field high standard of equipment readiness and be righteous Firing Ranges. He also witnessed live firing and all in their conduct. weather combat power capability of the formation.

‘Dot On Target’ Division conducted successful trial Bison Division organised an Organ Donation Pledging run of a Critical Rolling Stock rake & a modified BRN Camp & Blood Donation Camp at Secunderabad on rake with diverse military equipment on the newly 17 June 2021, wherein 750 soldiers pledged to donate commissioned Western Dedicated Freight Corridor on their organs to the needy people. The organ donation 14 June 2021. This corridor would lead to a faster & initiative was coordinated by the Armed Forces Organ swifter mobilisation. Retrieval and Transplantation Authority.

6 Baatcheet July 2021 snippets GOC-in-C visited Bhopal to review General Bipin Rawat, CDS visited forward areas of operational readiness of Sudarshan Chakra Corps. Central Sector along the LAC on 29 June 2021. He was He was briefed by GOC Sudarshan Chakra Corps on briefed by the local commanders on the operational contemporary operational and administrative initiatives situation and interacted with the troops, complimenting including innovative measures undertaken to fight them for their high morale & steadfastness. COVID-19.

GOC-in-C reviewed the operational Kharga Corps, in a joint effort with Ambala District preparedness of Airawat Division on 04 June 2021 and Administration and Red Cross Society organised a blood lauded the formation for its innovative approach to donation camp at Sirhind Club on the occasion of World training, while adhering to the restrictions enforced due Blood Donation Day on 14 June 2021. 150 volunteers to COVID-19. He exhorted all ranks to be prepared for from the Army donated blood to augment the Blood future operational challenges. Bank amidst the pandemic.

A four year old boy who fell into a 89 feet deep borewell in Medical Oxygen Generation Plant imported from South Agra on 14 Jun 2021 was rescued by the joint team of Army Korea & distributed by Best Group, Gurgaon was installed and District Administration. -Sappers of Shatrujeet at Armed Forces Clinic on 03 June 2021. This plant can Brigade were tasked for rescue operation and the boy was generate oxygen at the rate of 45 litres per minute & will go successfully rescued after a day long operation. a long way in meeting emergent requirements of patients in the AFC.

Baatcheet July 2021 7 KARGIL VIJAY DIWAS SPECIAL

TOLOLING BATTLE OF TOLOLING WAS PIVOTAL IN TURNING THE TIDE AND BREAKING THE BACK OF PAKISTANI INVASION. MAJOR VIVEK GUPTA, NAIK DIGENDRA KUMAR, MAJOR PADMAPANI ACHARYA AND CAPTAIN N KENGURUSE LEAD FROM FRONT IN THIS EPIC BATTLE.

TIGER HILL ON 08TH JULY 1999 INDIAN TRICOLOUR WAS HOISTED ON TOP. GRENADIER YOGENDER SINGH YADAV, LIEUTENANT BALWAN SINGH, AND MANY OTHER GALLANT SOLDIERS ARE STILL REMEMBERED FOR THE UNMATCHED VALOUR WHICH EPITOMISED RAW COURAGE OF INDIAN BRAVEHEARTS.

8 BaatcheetBaatcheet AprilJuly 20212021 KARGIL VIJAY DIWAS SPECIAL

BATALIK FIERCE PATRIOTISM OF YOUNG OFFICERS LIKE LIEUTENANT MANOJ KUMAR PANDEY AND MAJOR SARAVANAN IN THE FINAL ASSAULT ON PAKISTANI INTRUDERS IN BATALIK TURNED THE AREA INTO A MACABRE GRAVEYARD FOR ENEMY TROOPS AS THE NATION ACHIEVED A HEROIC VICTORY MARKED BY SUPREME SACRIFICE OF THESE BRAVEHEARTS.

Battle of Point 4875 On 07 July 1999, 13 JAKRIF was tasked to clear a narrow feature (Point 4875) with heavily fortified enemy defences that covered the only approach to it. Capt Vikram Batra assaulted the enemy position and killed many enemy soldiers in a fierce hand to hand fight. He rallied his men and pressed on the attack to capture Point 4875. His inspirational quote ‘Yeh Dil Maange More’ continues to inspire the Indian soldiers.

BaatcheetBaatcheet AprilJuly 20212021 9 J & K AND LADAKH diary Chinar Corps provided requisite gear and organised a White Knight Corps organised blood donation camp in trekking camp for four days at Ajas in Kashmir for the local Rajauri on 14 June 2021, in which 100 Army personnel youth. River crossing, survival techniques & first aid were participated. An awareness drive for the locals residing taught to the participants and an adventure node for future in remote areas near the LC was also organised. endeavours was also set up.

Chinar Corps re-dedicated & renamed the Army Northern Command conducted interactive sessions with Goodwill School, Budkot, as ‘Ashutosh Army the locals in Manasbal, Shahgund, Hajin & Aragam. Goodwill School’, in memory of Late Colonel Ashutosh Education system, tourism, perception of youth towards Sharma, SM** on 25 June 2021. Mrs Pallavi Ashutosh sports & measures to take forward the peace in the addressed the gathering & unveiled the Ashutosh Gallery. were discussed.

Chingam village in district, adopted by the Officiating GOC Fire & Fury Corps laid a wreath at Leh Army, recorded 100% vaccination for COVID-19 in the War Memorial on 15 June 2021 to pay homage to the 20 over 45 age population. It was possible due to excellent bravehearts who laid down their lives on 15 June 2020 in synergy with the Civil Administration, wherein Army Galwan Valley, while defending the territorial integrity provided the logistics support to civil medical staff & a and sovereignty of the country. vigorous campaign convinced the elders to vaccinate.

10 Baatcheet July 2021 NORTH EAST DIARY

During his visit to Trishakti Corps, GOC-in-C was briefed by GOC Trishakti Corps on the operational situation & preparedness in the Corps Zone. He complimented the efforts & commitment of troops in the forward areas and appreciated the manner in which they were braving the harsh weather conditions and inhospitable terrain. On 12 June 2021, the Army Commander met the Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim and discussed various activities being undertaken by the Army.

Military Hospital Shillong and Base Hospital Guwahati Assam Rifles organised ‘World Against Child Abuse have been at the forefront for management of COVID-19 Day’ at Child Care Centre, Jalukie on 12 June 2021. patients since the outbreak of the pandemic. Both the 20 children attended the interactive session where hospitals have commenced vaccination of civilians in they were informed about the various types of abuses addition to serving and ex-servicemen personnel. involving physical, emotional and neglect of basic rights.

In the challenging times of pandemic, Gajraj Corps Spear Corps commemorated supreme sacrifice of Captain provided COVID-19 relief material for the frontline N Kengurüse, MVC in Kargil Conflict, at his native workers and local populace at Tawang, Arunachal village Pheza in Nagaland by wreath laying, vaccination Pradesh. The timely assistance was deeply appreciated by drive and felicitating the braveheart’s parents. the citizens.

Baatcheet July 2021 11 COMMUNIQUE IMPORTANT UPDATES

ARMY WELFARE EDUCATION SOCIETY

1. Introduction of New Programmes in Army Professional Institutions from Academic Year 2022-23 :-

Institute Programme Seats per Year

Army Institute of Technology 2 Year ME (Data Science) 24 (AIT), Pune

Army Institute of Fashion 3 Year B Sc (Interior Design 60 and Design (AIFD), Benga- & Decoration) luru

2. Commissioning of New Campus for Army Institute of Management, Kolkata. GOC-in-C Eastern Command inaugurated the new campus, constructed at an approximate cost of Rs 100 Crores, at New Town / Rajarhat, Kolkata on 27 May 2021.

MS BRANCH HELP DESK

1. In order to provide an interactive single point contact for all officers of Indian Army, MS Helpdesk in IHQ of MoD (Army) has been made operational since 01 May 2021 to provide clarification on all HR issues handled by the MS Branch.

2. The Helpdesk established in MS Branch is operational on all working days from 1000h to 1600h and has the following facilities: (a) ASCON No : 35664/35686. (b) Civil Land Line No : 011-23019795. (c) Video Conference ID MS_HELPDESK for VC facility, when required (on ADN, 'My Space').

12 Baatcheet July 2021 welfare and empowerment

During an official visit to Shimla, General MM Contributing towards the fight against COVID-19, Naravane, COAS and Mrs Veena Naravane, President Army Wives Welfare Association presented oxygen AWWA met and honoured the next of kin of Sepoy cylinders to 92 Base Hospital, BB Cantt and COVID Ankush, Sena Medal, who made the supreme sacrifice Care Centre, Rangreth in on 03 June 2021. at Galwan in June 2020.

On World Environment Day, Southern Command Mon Battalion of Assam Rifles distributed wheelchairs continued with its mega initiative of planting over one & hearing aids to differently abled villagers of Mon and a half lakh saplings and one lakh seed balls through district on 25 June 2021. The initiative to reach out to 136 Battalion (Ecological). The drive persons who do not have access to medical treatment will witness a transformation of over 100 hectare & can't afford these equipment, was welcomed by the deforested land at various locations in Pune into green locals who expressed their gratitude to the Unit. zones.

Red Shield Division in coordination with civil On the occasion of International Day against Drug Abuse administration conducted COVID vaccination drive for and Illicit Trafficking, Sabse Behtar Brigade organised the locals in Miao Sub Division of Arunachal Pradesh an awareness lecture cum counselling session for Army from 16 to 19 June 2021. 1037 individuals were vaccinated personnel and their families at Nasirabad to combat during the drive. misinformation & drug related facts.

Baatcheet July 2021 13 TRAINING GOC-in-C Western Command reviewed the passing out The passing out parade of Technical Entry Scheme-37 Course at parade at Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun the Cadets Training Wing, CME Pune, held on 12 June 2021 was on 12 June 2021. 341 Indian gentleman cadets and 84 reviewed by the Commandant of CME. 33 Gentleman Cadets, foreign cadets (from nine countries) were commissioned including three from Bhutan & two from , were as officers. commissioned as officers.

Attestation Parade to mark entry of 614 recruits into the After rigorous training, 222 soldiers passed out from Army as young soldiers was held at the JAKLI Regimental & Kashmir Rifle Regimental Centre, Jabalpur on Centre on 25 June 2021. The magnificent parade was 22 May 2021. The attestation parade was reviewed by the reviewed by the GOC of Chinar Corps. Commandant of JAKRIF Regimental Centre.

Armoured Regiment undertook zeroing of tanks Attestation Parade by 162 recruits of KUMAON & NAGA and field firing at an altitude of 16000 ft in Sub Sector Regiments was held at the KUMAON Regimental Centre North, Eastern Ladakh. Firing of tanks in HAA is a very on 05 Jun 2021. The Centre Commandant reviewed the important operational activity, wherein, operational parade and presented medals to the winners. efficacy of the equipment and crew skills are integrated.

14 Baatcheet July 2021 SPORTS & ADVENTURE

Havildar Sanjeet Kumar of ‘Brigade of the Guards’ and Subedar Amit Panghal of ‘Mahar Regiment’ won Gold Medal in 91 kg and Silver Medal in 52 kg weight category respectively at ASBC Asian Boxing Championship 2021 held in Dubai. Sanjeet defeated Rio Olympic silver medalist Vassiliy Levit of Kazakhstan in the final.

Bison Division organised a 30 Km Cyclothon at Secunderabad on 20 June 2021. 40 enthusiastic riders participated in the event to spread awareness about healthy living and Fit India Mission. Regular cycling increases muscle strength and flexibility in the body and leads to decrease in stress levels.

Subedar Neeraj Chopra won the gold medal in Javelin throw at the Karlstad Grand Prix in Sweden, a World Athletics Continental Tour event, held on 22 June 2021. He finished third with a throw of 86.79m at the Kuortane Games in Finland on 26 June 2021. The reigning Asian and Commonwealth Games champion has already qualified for the Tokyo Olympics.

Baatcheet July 2021 15 CEREMONIAL EVENTs

Army Educational Corps (AEC) celebrated its 101st Corps Day on 01 June 2021. In its 100 years of glorious history, the Corps has dedicated itself towards Educational Training with zeal & enthusiasm. Owing to the concerted & sustained efforts, the Corps has seamlessly adapted to the evolving demands of providing quality education & empowerment. The role of AEC in successful implementation of continuous education programmes like IGNOU Army Education Project and NIOS Education Project for IA have been noteworthy. The Corps has also been at the forefront of training in Map Reading, academics at PCTAs, military music, foreign languages as well as handling RTI cases and shaping young minds in Rashtriya Military Schools and Sainik Schools.

50th Raising Day of Northern Command was celebrated on 17 June 2021. On this occasion, Chief of Staff, HQ Northern Command laid wreath at the Dhruva War Memorial in Udhampur and paid homage to the gallant soldiers of the Command who have made supreme sacrifice for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country. Northern Command was raised on 17 June 1972 and its resolute response against aggression on the Line of Control & has won numerous accolades. The Command has been at the forefront to assist the civil administration and people of UTs of J & K and Ladakh during natural calamities like snow blizzards, earthquakes, cloudbursts, floods and frequent avalanches. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is yet another example wherein the Command has gone out of its way to support the people, in their times of need.

On 13th death anniversary of Field Marshal SHFJ White Knight Corps was raised on 01 June 1972. Corps Manekshaw, MC, a wreath was laid by officers of DSSC has a rich history, a saga of valour and bravery in all major Wellington on 27 June 2021 at the final resting place wars and various operations including CT operations of the revered soldier on behalf of the Defence Forces. till date. On its 49th Raising Day, the General Officer Field Marshal Manekshaw’s distinguished military career Commanding paid tribute to the brave hearts by laying spanned four decades and five wars including 1971 wreath at “Ashwamedh Sthal” in Nagrota. Liberation War of Bangladesh.

Next Edition of Baatcheet will cover the theme ‘ARTRAC Special’. 16 Baatcheet July 2021