2019 16-31 August Vol 66 No 16 ` 5 SAINIK Samachar

73rd Independence Day Celebrations pic: DPR Photo Division

The President Shri Ram Nath Kovind being received by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh at the National War Memorial in New Delhi on the occasion of 73rd Independence Day. pic: DPR Photo Division

The President Shri Ram Nath Kovind paying homage at the National War Memorial with the three Service Chiefs: Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, Admiral Karambir Singh and General Bipin Rawat on the 73rd Independnce Day. In This Issue Since 1909 BIRTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS President's Address to the Nation 4

(Initially published as FAUJI AKHBAR) Vol. 66 q No 16 25 Shravana – 9 Bhadrapada 1941 (Saka) 16-31 August 2019 The journal of India’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 Ruby Thinda Sharma Senior Editor Manoj Tuli 6 8 PM's Address to the Nation... Raksha Mantri's Message... Sub Editors Sub Maj KC Sahu Sub Maj Baiju G Coordination Kunal Kumar Business Manager Dhirendra Kumar Our Correspondents DELHI: Lt Col M Vaishnava (Offg.); Capt DK Sharma VSM; Gp Capt Anupam Banerjee; Divyanshu Kumar; BENGALURU: Guru Prasad HL; CHANDIGARH: Anil Gaur; CHENNAI: M Ponnein Selvan; GANDHINAGAR: Wg Cdr Puneet Chadha; GUWAHATI: Lt Col P Khongsai; IMPHAL: Lt Col M Vaishnava; JALANDHAR : Gagandeep Kaur; JAMMU: Lt Col Devender Anand; JAIPUR: Lt Col Sombit Ghosh; KOCHI: Cdr Sridhar E Warrier; KOHIMA: Col Chiranjeet Konwer; KOLKATA: Dipannita Dhar; LUCKNOW: Gp Capt BB Pande (Offg.); MUMBAI: Cdr Mehul Karnik, Narendra Kumar Vispute; NAGPUR: Gp Capt BB Pande; PALAM: 10. Modernisation of Armed Forces.. Wg Cdr AR Giri; PRAYAGRAJ: Gp Capt BB Pande (Offg.); PUNE: Mahesh 11 Nullification of Article 370 and… 12 Iyengar; SECUNDERABAD: G Surendra Babu; SHILLONG; Wg Cdr Ratnakar 13 Raksha Mantri chairs roundtable on RRM Exhorts Children… Singh; SRINAGAR: Col Rajesh Kalia; TEZPUR: Lt Col Harsh Wardhan Pande; Make in India in Defence Industry THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ms Dhanya Sanal K; UDHAMPUR: Lt Col Abhinav 14 Indian Army Wins the 5th International Navneet; VISAKHAPATNAM: Capt CG Raju. Army Scout Masters Competition 2019 17 Ex-Servicemen Rally Organised at... Published by: 18 Glimpses of Independence Day… A Bharat Bhushan Babu, ADG (M&C) 20 Tactical Casualty Care - Need of the … Nampibou Marinmai, Director (PR) 21 ICG Yard 2117 Kanaklata Barua… 22 Army Intensifies Flood Relief Operations Directorate of Public Relations, South Block, 23 Navy Mobilises Rescue Efforts Ministry of Defence, New Delhi-110011 24 Independence Day Gallantry Awards Editorial Office: and other Decorations L-1 Block, Church Road, New Delhi-110001, Telefax : 23094668 Telephone : 23092768 29 Armed Forces Panorama Email : [email protected] E-in-C: ASCON-32078 For subscriptions contact : Business Manager, Sainik Samachar, Telephone : 23092768 RM Honours Winners of 5th International Subscription Rates: Inland (Ordinary): One Year Rs 100.00, Overseas Army Scout Masters Competition 2019 16 (Surface Mail): Rs 450.00 Concessional (per year): Rs 20.00 (Applicable for dependants of service personnel & ex-Servicemen.) For all correspondence subscribers must quote their subscription number

On front cover: The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of the 73rd Independence Day. pic: DPR Photo Division For more details visit our website: http://sainiksamachar.nic.in Follow us on: www.facebook.com/DefenceMinIndia

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https://www.instagram.com/prodefense/ PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS TO THE NATION On the Eve of India’s 73rd Independence Day

ear Fellow Citizens, elected must be equal to the trust D I offer you my greetings on placed in them by their electors. It is the eve of our 73rd Independence also important because nation building Day. This is a happy and emotional –a continuous process, of which day for all children of Mother India, Independence was a key milestone whether living at home or abroad. We – requires every institution and every remember with gratitude the countless stakeholder to work in tandem, to freedom fighters and revolutionaries work in harmony and to work in who struggled, strived and made togetherness. Nation building, at the heroic sacrifices to win us our freedom end of the day, is about creating that from colonial rule. optimal partnership between voters Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh would and their representatives, between We complete 72 years as a free be of immense benefit to those citizens and their government, and nation at a very special juncture. In regions. They will enable the people between civil society and state. a few weeks from now, on October to access and enjoy the same rights, 2nd, we will celebrate the 150th same privileges and same facilities as The state and the government birth anniversary of the Father of our their fellow citizens in the rest of the have an important role here, as a Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, the guiding country. These include progressive, facilitator and an enabler. As such, it is light of our successful effort to liberate egalitarian laws and provisions related critical for our key institutions and the our nation and of our continuing effort to the Right to Education; accessing policy makers to study and appreciate to reform our society of all inequities. public information through the Right to the message being sent by citizens and to be responsive to the thoughts and Contemporary India is very Information; reservations in education and employment and other facilities wishes of our people. As the President different from the India in which of India, it is my privilege to travel all Mahatma Gandhi lived and for traditionally deprived communities; and justice for our daughters by over our country, to our diverse states worked. Even so, Gandhiji remains and regions, and meet fellow Indians extremely relevant. In his advocacy abolishing unequal practices such as instant triple talaq. from all walks of life. Indians can be of sustainability, ecological sensitivity very different in their tastes and habits, and living in harmony with nature, Earlier this summer, the people of but Indians share the same dreams. he anticipated pressing challenges India participated in the 17th general Before 1947, the dreams were for a of our times. When we design and election, the largest democratic free India. Today, the dreams are for deliver welfare programmes for our exercise in human history. For this I accelerated development; for effective disadvantaged fellow citizens and must congratulate our voters. They and transparent governance; and yet families, when we seek to harness turned up at polling stations in large for a smaller footprint of government the power of the sun as renewable numbers and with much enthusiasm. in our everyday lives. energy, we put Gandhian philosophy They gave expression to their electoral into action. right as well as their electoral Fulfilling these dreams is essential. responsibility. Any reading of the mandate of the This year also marks the 550th people would make their aspirations birth anniversary of one of the greatest, Every election marks a new clear. And while the government wisest and most influential Indians beginning. Every election is the inevitably has its part to play, I would of all time – Guru Nanak Devji. He renewal of India’s collective hope and argue that the greater opportunity and was the founder of Sikhism, but the optimism – a hope and optimism that ability lies in the skill, talent, innovation, reverence and respect he commands can be compared, I would say, to what creativity and entrepreneurship of 1.3 go far beyond just our Sikh brothers we experienced on August 15, 1947. billion Indians. These attributes are and sisters. They extend to millions of Now it is for all of us, everybody in not new. They have kept India going others in India and across the world. India, to work together and take our and have nurtured our civilisation for My best wishes to them on this pious cherished nation to new heights. thousands of years. There have been occasion. In this regard, I am happy to note times in our long history when our that the recently concluded session of people encountered hardships and Fellow Citizens, Parliament saw lengthy and productive challenges. Even on such occasions, The illustrious generation that sittings of both the Lok Sabha and the our society proved to be resilient; led us to freedom did not perceive Rajya Sabha. Many important Bills common families showed uncommon independence only in terms of transfer were passed, in a spirit of cross-party courage; and so many determined of political power. They considered cooperation and constructive debate. individuals found the strength to it a stepping stone in a longer and I am confident this is only an indicator survive and to thrive. Today, given a larger process of nation building and of what the coming five years have facilitative and enabling environment national welding. Their objective was in store. I also urge that this culture by the government, we can only to improve the life of each individual, percolates to all our legislative imagine what our people can achieve. each family and of society as a whole. assemblies. The government can build In this backdrop, I am confident Why is this important? It is financial infrastructure in the form of a that the recent changes made in important not merely because the transparent, inclusive banking system,

4 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 an online-friendly tax system and belongs to each one of us, the people Nevertheless, the greatest gift we easier access to capital for legitimate of India – is to secure another aspect of can give our young and our coming entrepreneurs. The government can our hard-won freedom. Civic-minded generations is to encourage and build physical infrastructure in the Indians respect and take ownership of institutionalise a culture of curiosity form of housing for the poorest of such facilities and such infrastructure. the poor, and availability of energy, And when they do so, they display – especially in the classroom. Let us toilets and water in every home. The the same spirit and resolve as the listen to our children – for through government can build institutional valiant men and women who serve them the future whispers to us. infrastructure to address the paradox in our Armed Forces and paramilitary I say this with the confidence of floods and calamities in some parts and police forces. Whether you of the country, and water scarcity in guard our nation at the frontiers or and belief that India will never lose other parts. The government can build check that hand before it throws a its capacity to listen to the feeblest connectivity infrastructure in the form stone at a passing train or any other voice; that it will never lose sight of of wider, better highways and safer, public property – just like that, for the its ancient ideals; that it will forget faster trains; airports in the interiors sake of it; or perhapsin anger – in neither its sense of fairness nor its of our country, and ports that dot our some measure you protect a shared sense of adventure. We Indians are a treasure. This is not just a matter of coasts. And near universal data access people who dare to explore the moon that allows common citizens to benefit obeying laws; it is of answering to an from Digital India. inner conscience. and Mars. We are also a people who persevere to create a loving habitat for The government can build Fellow Citizens, social infrastructure in the form three of every four wild tigers on our of a comprehensive healthcare I have spoken so far of how planet, because it is characteristic of programme, and facilities and state and society, government and Indianness to empathise with nature citizen, must see each other and provisions for the mainstreaming and with all living beings of our Divyang fellow citizens. must cooperate with each other. I The government can build legal would like to turn to how we Indians Over a hundred years ago, the infrastructure by enacting laws that should see one another – how we inspirational poet Subramania Bharati advance gender equality, as well as by should have the same expectations gave voice to our freedom movement removing obsolete laws to make life from and regard for fellow citizens as we would expect them to have from and its expansive goals in the following easier for our people. and for us. Through the millennia lines in Tamil: However, what is more crucial and through the centuries, India has "eanje~ diksZe~] fou; ranje~ diksZe~ is for society and for citizens to use rarely been a judgemental society. and nurture this infrastructure – for Rather, it has had an easy-going, live- oku; vyIikse~] dMy ehu; vyIikse~ the benefit of themselves and their and-let-live organising principle. We pafnjv e.MyÙkq] b;y d.Mq rsfyokse~ families, and for the benefit of society respect each other’s identity – whether lafn] rs#is#ôqe~ lkfÙkje~ diksZe~" and us all. born of region, language or faith; For example, rural roads and or even the absence of faith. India’s This can be interpreted as: better connectivity have meaning only history and destiny, India’s legacy and "We will learn both scripture and science if farmers use them to reach bigger future, are a function of coexistence markets and get better prices for their and conciliation, of reform and We will explore both heavens and oceans produce. Fiscal reforms and easier reconciliation – of expanding our We will unravel the mysteries of the moon regulations for business have meaning hearts and embracing the ideas of And we will sweep our streets clean too" only if our entrepreneurs, whether others. small start-ups or big industrialists, This spirit of cooperation is what Fellow Citizens, use these to build honest and we bring to our diplomatic endeavours May those ideals and may that imaginative enterprises and create as well, as we gladly share our urge to learn and to listen and to sustainable jobs. Universal availability experiences and our strengths with of toilets and household water have partner countries in every continent. become better, may that curiosity and meaning only if they empower the At home and abroad, in domestic may that fraternalism, always be with women of India, enhance their dignity discourse and in foreign policy, let us us. May it always bless us, and always and become a catalyst for them to always be conscious of the magic and bless India. go out into the world and achieve uniqueness of India. their ambitions. They can achieve With that, I once more wish you We are a young country, a society and your families all the very best on their ambitions as they choose: as increasingly defined and shaped by mothers and homemakers – and as our youth. The energies of our young the eve of Independence Day. professionals and individuals with are being channelized in so many Thank You their own destiny. directions – in a quest for excellence Jai Hind! To cherish and safeguard such from sport to science, from scholarship infrastructure – infrastructure that to soft skills. This is heart-warming. - PIB

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 5 pm's address to the nation PM Addresses the Nation on the 73rd Independence Day

he following are the highlights from the Prime Minister’s speech on August 15, 2019 from the ramparts of Red TFort: I extend warm greetings and best wishes on the 73rd Independence Day and on the auspicious festival of Raksha Bandhan to all the countrymen, brothers and sisters. • As the country is celebrating the festival of Independence, people in several parts of the country are facing difficulties due to floods. Centre, States and other organizations are striving hard to bring the situation back to normal. • To revoke Article 370 and 35A within 10 weeks of the formation of the new Government is a significant step towards fulfilling the dream of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel. The task that was not done in the last 70 aspirations and dreams. years has been accomplished within 70 days. The • It is our responsibility that the aspirations of the citizens abrogation of Article 370 and 35A was passed in both of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh are fulfilled and Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha by two-thirds majority. dalits living there should get equal rights as enjoyed • If we can abolish Sati system, make stringent laws by the rest of the dalits in the country. Similarly, against female foeticide and take action against child communities like Gujjars, Bakarwals, Gaddis, Sippies marriage and dowry, we can also raise our voice or Balties should get political rights. After partition, against Triple Talaq. lakhs of people got displaced and settled in Jammu • Similarly, we have enacted law against Triple Talaq to & Kashmir were devoid of basic human rights and protect the rights of our Muslim women. citizenship rights. • Radical amendments were made in laws relating to • J&K and Ladakh can become role models of peace terrorism and were made more stringent and powerful. and prosperity and contribute significantly towards • In a significant step, transfer of about Rs. 90,000 India’s development. The state can greatly contribute crores to farmers’ bank accounts is in progress to to India’s development. Today every Indian can those who are beneficiaries of PM Kisan Samman proudly say ‘One Nation, One Constitution’. Nidhi Yojana. • GST achieved the dream of ‘One Nation, One tax’. • Pension scheme to farmers and small entrepreneurs We successfully attained ‘One Nation, One Grid’ in has been put in place which was never imagined the power sector. We also developed ‘One Nation, earlier. One Mobility Card’ system and today there is a • To address challenges of water crisis, a new dedicated discussion in the country for ‘One Nation, One Poll’ Ministry of Jal Shakti has been created. and it should happen in a democratic manner. • In coming days, Centre and States will together take • Population explosion can create new problems forward the Jal-Jeevan Mission and an amount of specially for the future generations. But there is also more than Rs 3.5 lakh crores has been earmarked an enlightened section of society which is aware of for this. this challenge. We have to ponder on this issue taking along all the sections of the society. • There is a pressing need for doctors, health facilities and systems in the country. In order to make Medial • Corruption and nepotism have harmed the country Education transparent, important laws have been beyond imagination. We have taken several steps enacted. driven by technology to fight this menace. • The country has enacted strong laws for protection of • Ease of living is the necessity of independent India. children. We should build an eco-system in which there should • While 2014-2019 was an era of fulfillment of needs, be less Government interference in daily life. the period beyond 2019 is that of fulfillment of • The country can no longer wait for incremental

6 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 progress but should strive for giant strides. to the people of Afghanistan who are marking 100 • For development of modern infrastructure, an years of freedom. amount of Rs 100 lakh crore has been earmarked • I had flagged the issue of Swachhata from the ramparts for this period which will create new job opportunities of Red Fort in 2014 and a few weeks from now on the besides improving the living standards. occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma • India dreams of a 5 Trillion Dollar Economy. In the Gandhi on 2nd October, India will become an open 70 years of independence, the country became a 2 defecation free nation. Trillion Dollar Economy but in the last 5 years, we • Our country has been debating for long about have made it a 3 Trillion Dollar Economy and at this reforms in Armed Forces and many commissions and pace, we can become a 5 Trillion Dollar Economy. their reports underline the same. To further sharpen • By 75th year of independence, farmers’ income coordination between the forces, India will have Chief should double, every poor should get a pucca of Defence Staff, CDS which will make the forces even house, every family should get electricity connection more effective. and every village should have optical fibre network • I wish the countrymen to pledge to make India free and broadband connectivity besides facility of long from single use plastic by 2nd October. For this every distance education. citizen, municipalities and gram panchayats should • We have to lay stress on Blue Economy (Ocean come together. resources). Our farmers should become exporters • Our priority should be a 'Made in India' product. For and every district of the country should be an export a better tomorrow, can we think of consuming local hub. Value added goods from every district should products and also help improve rural economy and reach global markets. the MSME sector. • As a Tourist Destination, India can become a wonder • Our digital payment platforms are evolving strong. in the world. All Indians should promote tourism, We should lay stress on digital payments for our because tourism sector provides more jobs with less village shops, small outlets and smaller city malls. investments and also strengthens economy. • We are spoiling health of soil by use of chemical • A stable government provides for policy predictability fertilizers and pesticides. When Gandhiji has already and a stable system creates international trust. The shown us the path, can’t we reduce by 10%, 20% or world is looking at India with admiration for its political stability. 25% use of chemical fertilizers. I am sure our farmers will oblige my wish. • It is a matter of pride for India that we are progressing at a high growth rate with price rise under control. • Indian professionals are recognized globally. Our scientists have proved their mettle in Chandrayaan • The fundamentals of our economy are very strong and which is reaching the uncharted territory of the moon. reforms like GST & IBC have created a new faith in the system. Our investors should invest more, earn more • In the coming days, 1.5 lakh wellness centers will and generate more jobs. We should stop viewing our be created at villages. One medical college in the Wealth Creators with suspicion: they deserve greater midst of three Lok Sabha constituencies, housing for respect. Greater wealth creation will lead to greater two crore poor people, drinking water supply in 15 distribution and help in the welfare of poor people. crore rural households and 1.25 lakh km roads in rural areas, besides connecting every village with • India is strongly fighting against the forces spreading broadband and optical fiber network are some of the terrorism. India in league with other nations of the targets to be achieved. More than 50,000 new start world will expose those harbouring, promoting ups are also being planned. and exporting terrorism. To abolish the menace of terrorism, our security forces and security agencies • Indian constitution is completing 70 years, the dream have played an exemplary role and I salute them. of Baba Saheb Ambedkar and this year is also • India’s neighbours - Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Sri important for the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Lanka are suffering from terrorism. Our good friend in Nanak Devji. Let us move forward by imbibing the the neighborhood – Afghanistan is going to celebrate teachings of Baba Saheb and Guru Nanak Dev for a its 100th independence day in four days to come. better society and a better country. From the ramparts of the Red Fort, I give my greetings - PIB

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 7 Raksha Mantri's Message to the Armed Forces

ollowing is the text of Raksha Mantri Sri Rajnath Singh's message to the Armed Forces' personnel over All FIndia Radio on the eve of the 73rd Independence Day:

y Dear Sainik Brothers and Sisters, M The country will be celebrating 73rd Independence Day tomorrow. On this solemn occasion, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to each one of you serving in the Armed Forces. I extend my greetings to all serving personnel as well as ex-servicemen of the Army, Navy, Air Force and the Coast Guard. I also extend my best wishes to the family members of our personnel, many of whom are deployed far away from their homes in mountains, jungles, deserts and even deep seas serving the county day-in, day-out. On this auspicious occasion, my thoughts and gratitude are with the near and dear ones of all those spread to space and cyber space. Therefore, India who had laid down their lives in the line of duty. We are has to be ready for any eventuality keeping pace with forever indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice. technological advancements in the area. Keeping this in There had been continuous demands for a separate mind, we successfully conducted an Anti-Satellite missile war memorial since Independence for those who made test ‘Mission Shakti’ on March 27 this year. The DRDO- supreme sacrifice for the country. However, due to some developed Ballistic Missile Defence Interceptor Missile reason or the other the plan to construct the memorial successfully engaged an Indian orbiting target satellite got delayed. When our government under the able in Low Earth Orbit in a ‘Hit to Kill’ mode. With this, India leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra joined a select group of nations, like USA, Russia and Modi came into power five years ago, our government China which possess such a capability. However, let me took up the project. Eventually, a befitting National War reiterate that defence policy of the country is for peace Memorial for our martyrs came up in the heart of the and stability at regional, continental and global level. National Capital. It was dedicated by the Hon’ble Prime Since the Armed Forces are at the forefront of our Minister on February 25. nation’s defence, I assure you that the Government will Friends, this year we are commemorating 20 years do all that is necessary to keep your morale high and of Kargil War. The Prime Minister while paying homage to meet your functional requirements. Under the able to the Martyrs said that every Indian was remembering leadership of the Prime Minister, the Armed Forces are the inspirational saga of our brave hearts for their valour being rapidly modernised. We are working tirelessly to and dedication to the nation. We ‘remember’our martyrs achieve his vision of ‘jointness’ among the three wings by revisiting their sacrifices, we ‘rejoice’ by celebrating of the Armed Forces. the victory in Kargil and we ‘renew’ our resolve to My Dear Sainik Brothers and Sisters, additionally, safeguard the honour of the Tricolour. efforts are being made to increase the participation of Our neighbouring country is continuously keeping private sector in defence manufacturing under ‘Make in a sinister eye on Jammu and Kashmir. It sends terrorists India’ to boost indigenisation. The 11th DefExpo India- into our territory and disturbs peace in the Valley. On 14 2020 is scheduled to be held in Lucknow which will offer February 2019, 40 brave jawans of CRPF were martyred an excellent opportunity for the Indian defence industry in Pulwama in a suicide attack.Our Armed Forces hit to showcase its capabilities and promote its export back by destroying the terror launch pads with air strikes potential. across the border in Pakistan before it could plan another The Army recently carried out summer user trials Pulwama like attack. of third Generation Anti-Tank Guided Missile NAG In the new and emerging world, the battlefield successfully at Pokhran Field Firing Ranges. This third- is not only limited to land, air and sea but will also generation fire and forget class missile has been

8 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 developed to engage highly fortified enemy tanks in all for the wards of Martyrs. A Janaushadhi Kendra was weather conditions with day and night capabilities. The inaugurated at Base Hospital, Delhi Cantt in March this robust imaging algorithm has made the missile hit the year. This pilot Kendra, which is in line with Pradhan target at four-kilometre distance even in severe summer Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, will benefit desert conditions which is unique in its class. in the provisioning of medicines at much cheaper The Indian Air Force successfully fired the BrahMos rate compare to market. It will later be replicated in air version missile from its frontline Sukhoi-30 fighter other parts of the country. We have also opened first aircraft in May 2019. A 500 kg class Inertial Guided Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Bomb was successfully flight tested in May 2019 again Polyclinic at Tawang and Tenga in Arunachal Pradesh from Sukhoi-30. The guided bomb achieved the desired in October last year. range and hit the target with high precision. The LCA Our Armed Forces, including the Coast Guard have Tejas made successful trial of mid-air refuelling on always played a key role in giving succour to the people September 10 which is a major step towards final in the times of disaster. It was no different this time, operational clearance. whether it was during Cyclone FANI, Gaja or Ockhi. My Dear Sainik Brothers and Sisters, we have now Our officers and jawans worked tirelessly to bring smiles delegated greater financial powers to Vice Chiefs of the on the faces of sufferers. three Services in order to expedite the decision-making My Dear Sainik Brothers and Sisters, with these process involved in the revenue procurements. With the words, I once again extend my greetings to all of you and new delegation, the financial powers of the Vice Chiefs your family members on the eve of 73rd Independence are increased from Rs 100 crore to Rs 500 crore. It Day. Our freedom fighters fought hard against the will augment the arms and ammunition reserves of the Armed Forces. Colonial rule so that we could live in a free India. The proud nation now looks up to you to defend its borders My dear jawans, I have restored ‘ration in kind’ for with best of your strength & abilities. the officers of the three-Armed Forces posted in peace areas since June. Now, all officers of the Armed Forces, With these words, I once again wish you all very including those in peace station will be getting ration. It happy Independence Day. may be noted that all the jawans are already availing it Jai Hind! in all stations. - PRO Defence The government recently enhanced scholarship pic: DPR Photo Divn Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh Chairs First Defence Acquisition Council Meeting o give a boost to indigenisation, It would enable information sharing, developed equipment are of the Tthe Defence Acquisition Council collaboration and situational latest generation and would give a (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri awareness through high-speed data fillip to the Make-in-India initiatives Shri Rajnath Singh, accorded and secure voice communication of the Government. approval for procurement of with anti-jamming capability. Continuing its focus on ‘Ease of indigenous Software Defined Radio Next Generation Maritime business’ in the defence acquisition, (SDR Tactical) and Next Generation Mobile Coastal Batteries (NGMMCB, the DAC also approved amendments Maritime Mobile Coastal Batteries Long Range) would be fitted with to the Defence Procurement (Long Range) for the Indian Navy on supersonic BrahMos surface-to- Procedure 2016. The amendments August 8, 2019. surface cruise missiles and would are designed to simplify processes The SDR is a complex and state be deployed along the coast. The under the ‘Make’ category as well of art communication system, which NGMMCB has been developed as ‘Offsets’. has been indigenously designed and manufactured in India by Indo- This was the first DAC meeting and developed by DRDO, BEL Russia Joint Venture Company, M/s chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri and Weapons Electronics System BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited. Rajnath Singh after assuming office. Engineering Establishment (WESEE). Both these indigenously - PRO Defence

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 9 Modernisation of Armed Forces Top Priority, says Raksha Mantri

aksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh said modernisation of to develop its skilled manpower and invest in high-end Rthe Armed forces is the top priority of the government technology areas to manufacture the missiles contemplated to enhance the defence capability and preparedness of under this Programme. The Raksha Mantri also visited the the country. He was on a visit to Bharat Dynamics Limited state-of-the-art production facilities at Kanchanbagh Unit of (BDL) in Hyderabad on the occasion of Golden Jubilee the Company. He also released a commemorative stamp celebrations of the Defence PSU on August 3, 2019. on BDL on the occasion. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Shri Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh handed over Rajnath Singh said Indigenization will be encouraged Medium Range Surface-to-Air-Missile (MR SAM) to Indian to the maximum possible extent and defence equipment Air Force in the function. Vice Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal will be imported only when it cannot be manufactured RKS Bhadauria received MR SAM on behalf of the IAF. indigenously. He added that the defence sector will play a Raksha Mantri felicitated 'Veer Naris' from the State key role in making the country a 5-trillion economy through of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh as a part of Corporate FDI and offset investments in manufacturing. He hoped that Social Responsibility initiative of the BDL. Shri Rajnath Singh defence exports will reach to a significant level by 2025. interacteded with 22 Veer Naris who were invited to BDL on Shri Rajnath Singh said BDL is an important defence this occasion. organisation and with organizations like DRDO, ISRO, Raksha Mantri also inaugurated the Rain Water BDL has enhanced the prestige of the country through Harvesting facility named as 'Jal Nidhi' at the upcoming Unit its achievements. Shri Rajnath Singh appreciated BDL for of BDL at Ibrahimpatnam as a part of Jal Shakti Abhiyan manufacturing more than one lakh missiles in the last 50 of the Government of India. This is expected to help in years. meeting storage of 24 Lakh litre of water and increasing Shri Rajnath Singh said in the new world many the level of underground water levels. countries have developed counter to missile technology by A five MW Solar power plant was also inaugurated developing Air Defence Systems and gave a call for the by Shri Rajnath Singh at BDL, Ibrahimpatnam, which development of Hypersonic Missiles technology to enhance demonstrates commitment of DPSU towards environment defence capabilities of the Armed Forces. He reiterated that protection. defence policy of the country is for peace and stability at Earlier, Raksha Mantri was given a warm welcome by regional, continental and global level. Chairman-cum-Managing Director of BDL Commodore He unveiled a statue of former President and Siddharth Mishra (Retd) at its premises at Kanchanbagh. Bharat Ratna Dr APJ Abdul Kalam to commemorate his Secretary, Department of Defence Research & Development legendary vision. The brainchild of Dr Kalam, Integrated and Chairman, DRDO Dr G Satheesh Reddy was also Guided Missile Development (IGMD) Programme that was present on the occasion. launched during late 80s, gave BDL plenty of opportunities - PRO Defence

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh handing over Medium Range Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh releasing the commemorative postal Surface-to-Air-Missile to VCAS Air Marshal RKS Bhaduria at BDL. stamp on the Golden Jubilee celebrations of BDL. Also seen in the Also seen in the picture are Secretary, Department of Defence picture are Secretary, Department of Defence Research & Development Research & Development and Chairman DRDO Dr G Satheesh and Chairman DRDO Dr G Satheesh Reddy, CMD of BDL Commodore Reddy and CMD of BDL Commodore Siddharth Mishra (Retd). Siddharth Mishra (Retd) and VCAS Air Marshal RKS Bhadauria.

10 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 Nullification of Article 370 and Creation of UTs of J&K and Ladakh have Ended 70 years of Discrimination - RM

Our Armed Forces are fully five-dimensional analysis as new prepared to meet any security threats emerged in cyber and space challenges – Raksha Mantri domains in addition to the traditional threats from land, air and sea. He aksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh also suggested that IDSA can study has said, the decision taken by R and speed up processes of import of the Government over the last few Defence merchandise. days in nullifying Article 370 and creating two Union Territories in Raksha Mantri said the Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has Government adopted neighbourhood ended the discrimination faced by first policy which treats countries the people during the last 70 years. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh sharing land as well as maritime Addressing the annual general body addressing the gathering at the 52nd boundary with India as our meeting of the Institute of Defence Annual General Body Meeting of IDSA in neighbours. It was reflected by Prime Studies and Analyses (IDSA) in New Delhi on August 8, 2019. Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s first New Delhi on August 8, 2019, Shri visit abroad in his second term to Rajnath Singh said, the groundwork Maldives and Defence Minister Shri towards a permanent solution for this Rajnath Singh’s visit to Mozambique. issue has been laid during the first term of Government led by Prime Earlier, Shri Rajnath Singh was Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The unanimously elected President of decision will have some effects, he IDSA by its Executive Council. Shri added saying that the neighbouring Sujan R. Chinoy, Director General, country is not happy and it will try IDSA, welcomed Raksha Mantri and to disturb peace. Our Armed Forces briefed him on the role and functions have accepted the security challenge of IDSA. Shri Rajnath Singh planted and are fully prepared to meet any a sapling at the IDSA premises in the threats. presence of scholars and members

Shri Rajnath Singh urged IDSA Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh planting a of IDSA. to carry out careful, meaningful and sapling in the IDSA building. - PRO Defence

Director General, IDSA Shri Sujan R Chinoy briefing Raksha Mantri on the role and functions of IDSA.

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 11 RRM Exhorts Children to Play a Leading Role in Making 'New India'

aksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad imbibe the virtues which will be RNaik encouraged children to shared by the Prime Minister during take inspiration from Prime Minister his Independence Day address. Shri Narendra Modi in taking India Raksha Rajya Mantri also lauded to newer heights. He was addressa the children for their determination gathering of 3,500 children from by sitting for long hours for the last 41 government schools, who would few days in challenging weather be displaying 'Naya Bharat', as well in the run up to the celebrations. as, 700 NCC cadets who would Therefore, it gives me immense participate in the Independence Day pleasure to give you mementos for your hard work, he added. celebrations at the majestic Red Fort Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad Naik on August 15, 2019. Shri Shripad Later, Shri Shripad Naik gave addressing the children from Government schools and NCC cadets in the run-up to Naik called upon the students to away souvenirs to a teacher and the Independence Day celebrations from the ramparts of the majestic Red Fort in New Delhi on August 11, 2019.

a student from each participating school and Unit-in-Charge of the NCC group and a cadet on behalf of all participating children and cadets.

- PRO Defence Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad Naik interacting with the school children. pix: DPR Photo Divn

Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad Naik giving away souvenirs to school children and Unit-in-Charge of the three wings of NCC.

12 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 Raksha Mantri Chairs Roundtable on Make in India in Defence Industry

ith the objective to promote W‘Make in India’ in Defence sector, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh interacted with top Defence and Aerospace Industry leaders on August 9, 2019. The round table’ was organised by the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence (MoD) and aimed to explore ways to attract investment, address the concerns of the industry and promote innovations in Defence sector. The MoD has taken several steps to ease licensing, promote exports and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh chairing ‘Make in India in Defence Industry Roundtable’ in the Defence sector. with captains of defence industry in New Delhi on August 9, 2019. Also seen in the picture are Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad Y. Naik and Secretary (Defence Production) The process of acquiring Dr Ajay Kumar. defence industrial licence has been Procedure (SOP) for reducing the Rs 1,321 crore. eased to significantly enhance time taken for granting permission ‘Make in India’ portal for ‘Ease of Doing Defence Business’. for exports. The average time taken Defence Production has been Applications have been received has been reduced by 100 per cent from various companies and 63 of revamped and re-launched. A new to 32 days now. Defence exports them were disposed off within the portal, www.defenceexim.gov.in have recorded a substantial rise to time-frame in 2018-19. has been created for end-to-end Rs 10,745 crore in 2018-19 from Rs To promote defence exports, processing and communication 4,682 crore in 2017-18. 668 No Objection Certificates of export license applications and were issued to companies during FDI in Defence and Aerospace generating and disseminating export 2018-19. Steps have been taken to in the last five years was Rs 1,664 market leads. rationalise the Standard Operating crore. Before 2014, the figure was In addition, the MoD launched a dashboard to keep track of the major components of Defence Production, including defence exports, defence offsets, defence projects under ‘Make in India’, startups in defence sector, investments in defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu and artificial intelligence projects in defence. The interaction of industry leaders with Raksha Mantri provided an opportunity to discuss new and innovative proposals in defence production and exports. - PRO Defence pix: DPR Photo Divn

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 13 Indian Army Wins the 5th International Army Scout Masters Competition 2019

he Indian Army team Tcomprehensively won the 5th International Army Scout Masters Competition held at Jaisalmer Military Station from 5th to 16th August 2019 under the aegis of Konark Corps, Southern Command of the Indian Army. The competition which started on 5th August with a grand opening ceremony had a total of eight teams from Armenia, Belarus, China, Kazakhstan, India, Russia, Sudan and Uzbekistan participating in it. The eight nations’ participating teams underwent gruelling competition in five stages spread over nine days in tough Helicopter Mounting Drills. desert conditions that tested their adaptability, professional acumen, grit, capability and dedication. The teams of Uzbekistan and Russia secured the second and third positions respectively. The Indian Army participated in the competition for the first time. The team was selected and trained hard under the aegis of Southern Command for the last 10 months in extreme weather and desert conditions of the Thar Desert. Its diligence and perseverance finally bore fruit when it lifted the trophy at the grand closing ceremony held on 16th August. The entire competition had the following

five stages:- Stage I – Infiltration & Ambush Exercise which saw Helicopter mounting and dismounting drills of the teams. Stage II – Scout Specialists Course that had Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV) driving over a challenging obstacles course. Stage III – Scout Specialist Course which saw the scout teams Sniper Firing by Indian Scout Team Member. undertake tactical drills to negotiate

14 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 Indian Team completing the Obstacles Course. a gruelling obstacles course. The Indian Army team secured obstacle course for the Infantry Stage IV – Small Arms Firing the first position in the first four Combat Vehicles spread over a stages and second position in the distance of 6.7 kilometers with and Close Quarter Combat Skills. fifth stage. 15 obstacles and another tough Stage V – Floatation and This prestigious Competition obstacle course for the Scout Masters teams with 22 obstacles laid over Exfiltration Exercise that saw scout was held in India for the first time. a distance of 1.3 Kilometers. The teams swimming across a water World class infrastructure was smooth and efficient conduct of the obstacle with their loads including created at Jaisalmer Military Station event drew appreciation from all the weapons and ICV floating across a to conduct this prestigious event. participating teams and international water obstacle. These included a challenging panel of Judges including the co- host, Russia. The Closing Ceremony that was held on 16th August commenced with a smart ceremonial marching in of the participating contingents into the stadium. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh was the Chief Guest.It was attended by General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Army Staff, Lieutenant General SK Saini, Southern Army Commander, delegations of participating countries, members of the International Organising Committee and several civilian and military dignitaries. - PRO Jaipur Indian Team Shooting to Kill. pix: SN Acharya August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 15 RM Honours Winners of 5th International Army Scout Masters Competition

aksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh Rhonoured the winners of 5th International Army Scout Masters Competition 2019 held at Jaisalmer Military Station from August 6 to August 14, 2019 in Rajasthan. Giving away medals and trophies to the winners, Raksha Mantri congratulated them for their outstanding performances and wished a bright future for all the eight participating teams. Shri Rajnath Singh said, in the last 10 days, all the contestants Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh addressing the contingents of eight participating countries showed exceptional skills, went at 5th International Army Scout Masters Competition 2019 held at Jaisalmer in Rajasthan on August 16, 2019. through stiff competition, mental and physical challenges, demonstrated he added. United Nations Peacekeeping Force remarkable determination and grit, as Shri Rajnath Singh said, China for more than a decade. He further well as great teamwork. He hoped that annually participates in bilateral said, India looks forward to improving the friendship developed during the Exercise “Hand in Hand”, which the relations with all the countries competition will help in building better helps us in developing a better around the world. relations between the participating understanding of each other. He said Ambassador of Uzbekistan, Mr countries. India has had historical relationships Farhod Arziev, Chief of Amy Staff Raksha Mantri said, India shared with all countries of Central Asia, such General Bipin Rawat, General Officer friendly and cordial relations with as Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Commanding-in-Chief, Southern the countries participating in this Uzbekistan, which include commercial Command, Lt Gen SK Saini and heads competition. We have had deep and and cultural ties. of delegation, participants and guests strategic relations with Russia for a With regard to Sudan, Shri from friendly countries were present long time. Every year we organize a Rajnath Singh said, India has made on the occasion. bilateral Exercise INDRA with Russia, invaluable contribution under the - PRO Defence

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh with Indian Army contingent at the 5th International Army Scout Masters Competition 2019 at Jaisalmer in Rajasthan on August 16, 2019. Also seen in the picture is Chief of the Army Staff General Bipin Rawat. India bagged first position during the nine-day competition.

16 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 Ex-Servicemen Rally Organised at 1 EME Centre

s a mark of salute to the services and sacrifice of AIndian Army Veterans, an Ex-Servicemen (ESM) rally was organized by 1 EME Centre at Secunderabad under the aegis of Headquarters, Dakshin Bharat Area. The rally aimed to strengthen the traditional bonds and solidarity amongst serving and retired soldiers in general and also to provide them a platform to voice their concerns on various policies affecting the veterans, their pension related anomalies and a medium to showcase the genuine concern of serving personnel’s toward the veterans. The rally received an overwhelming response and was attended by more than 1000 Veterans including senior retired officers and Veer Naris hailing from twin cities of Hyderabad and Ranga Reddy district of Telangana. The rally commenced with address by Lieutenant General ST Upasani, General Officer Commanding, Dakshin Bharat Area, who expressed his gratitude to the Veterans, Veer Naris and their families as well as re-assured them that they would always remain an inseparable part of the Armed Forces fraternity and Udchalo Counter, Banking Awareness Counter (SBI and their welfare would always be accorded importance Andhra Bank) were also set up at the venue to facilitate and priority. He also interacted with the Veer Naris and and educate the Veterans on various new welfare felicitated the widows of heroes who made supreme schemes and initiatives. A Medical Camp with doctors sacrifice for the nation. Major General N Srinivas Rao, from MH Secunderabad as-well-as ECHS Polyclinic was General Officer Commanding, Telangana and Andhra also organised on the occasion, with complete medical Sub Area in his address appealed to the Veterans to staff and disbursement of medicines to the attendees. spread discipline in the society and to motivate youth to Various other facilities were also extended to the join armed forces. Major General Rao elaborated the Ex-servicemen which included registration for Aadhaar, IT initiatives of TASA ECHS like Doctors Appointment PAN and Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme App and other automation software for the benefit of the (ECHS) and provision of CSD canteen facilities. Veterans. The rally was organised in close coordination with the state administration wherein the main focus was To make this noble endeavour meaningful, a to update various records of ESM and address issues holistic approach was adopted wherein a dedicated cell like anomalies in disbursement of pension, ex-gratia was established well in advance to proactively seek and benefits for battle casualties and land/ legal cases being address various anomalies concerning Ex-servicemen, confronted by the Veterans & Veer Naris. A number of Veer Naris and Widows. The event was hailed as an stalls from various welfare agencies and organisations of excellent initiative by the Veterans and Veer Naris who the army and civil administration including Ex-Servicemen were extremely appreciative of the efforts by the Army in Grievances Cell, Recruitment Information Centre, reaching out to them. - PRO Secunderabad

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 17 Glimpses of Independence Day Celebrations

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paying homage at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat on the 73rd Independence Day in Delhi.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi being welcomed by the Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad Y. Naik and the Defence Secretary Shri Sanjay Mitra on his arrival at Red Fort on the 73rd Independence Day in Delhi.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inspecting the Guard of Honour at Red Fort. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi unfurling the Tricolour at the ramparts of Red Fort.

18 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressing the Nation on the 73rd Independence Day from the ramparts of Red Fort.

VVIPs and other dignitaries on the ramparts of Red Fort during the 73rd Independence Day.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi interacting with the school children after addressing the Nation. pix: DPR Photo Divn

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 19 Tactical Casualty Care – Need of the Hour

two day Continuing Medical Education (CME) A Programme with the theme tactical casualty care – need of the hour was inaugurated at Major Laishram Jyotin Singh Ashok Chakra Auditorium in Lucknow Cantonment on August 8, 2019. The CME was organized under the aegis of Officers Training College (OTC), Army Medical Corps Centre & College, Lucknow. OTC is a unique category ‘A’ institution of the Armed Forces imparting training to medical officers, dental officers, logistic officers and nursing officers of the Armed Forces Medical Services. A solemn wreath laying and homage to martyrs lives of troops and role of doctor in combat zone which at Army Medical Corps War Memorial heralded makes Army doctor unique. the beginning of the two day event. The CME was inaugurated with Lamp Lighting & Sarasvati Vandana. The keynote address was delivered by Lieutenant General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central General Bipin Puri, Director General Armed Forces Command, Director General Armed Forces Medical Medical Services (DGAFMS) and Senior Colonel Services, Director General Medical Services (Navy), Commandant who traced the evolution of Battle Field Director General (Organization & Persons), Director Medical Care: The Last Mile and its implications for General Health Services (AF) alongwith Officiating the Armed Forces Medical Services in his lucid talk. He Commandant, Army Medical Corps Centre and College spoke on challenges of Combat Medical Care dynamics and Commandant, Officers Training College graced the with changing battle scenarios with respect to weapons inaugural ceremony which was attended by more than of mass destruction. two hundred delegates comprising doctors and nurses The CME on August 8, 2019 comprised of three from Army, Navy and Air Force from all over India. stimulating scientific sessions chaired by senior and An e-Souvenir to mark the occasion was also released experienced doctors of the Armed Forces Medical as compilation of all the deliberation, Charak: Indian Services with discussions on diverse topics of current and Journal of Military Medicine in its inaugural issues was future importance. The sessions covered current and also released. future perspectives on Tactical Combat Casualty Care in The inaugural address was delivered by Lieutenant operations of war, Tri services consideration for Tactical General Abhay Krishna, General Officer Commanding- Combat Casualty Care and Recent Trends in Tactical in-Chief, Central Command who stressed on the Combat Casualty Care. importance of Tactical Combat Casualty Care for saving - PRO Lucknow

20 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 ICG Yard 2117 Kanaklata Barua Launched

ndian Coast Guard Fast Patrol IVessel (Yard 2117) was named Kanaklata Barua at an impressive launching ceremony at GRSE Kolkata on August 10, 2019. The ceremonial naming was done by Smt Veena Ajay Kumar, wife of Dr Ajay Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production), Chief Guest of the event, in the presence of Inspector General Rajan Bargotra, Commander Coast Guard Region (NE), Rear Admiral VK Saxena, IN (Retd), Chairman & Managing Director, GRSE and other senior dignitaries of the Central and State government. The vessel is fifth and last of the series of the class being built by M/s Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers, Kolkata. The first ship of this class, ICGS Priyadarshini, has already been commissioned on March 27, 2019. The entire design of the ship has been developed in-house by M/s GRSE as per requirement of Indian Coast Guard. The ship is 50 metres long & 7.5 metres wide with a displacement of around 308 tonnes. The ship is designed for maximum speed of 34 knots, with an endurance of more than 1500 nautical mile at cruising speed of 12-16 Knots. The ship is equipped with 3 Main Engines with advanced communication and navigational systems. The FPVs are ideal platforms for undertaking multifarious close- coast missions such as surveillance, interdiction, Search and Rescue and medical evacuation etc. Naming and launching of the ship is an important milestone in the life of the ship which actually signifies birth of a ship. Launching also marks the completion of main hull of the ship for transfer from land to the water for the first time. - PRO Kolkata

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 21 Army Intensifies Flood Relief Operations

he Indian Army has intensified Tits relief and rescue operations in the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. 13 Engineer Teams of the Indian Army were airlifted from Rajasthan to provide a surge to its ongoing relief and rescue operations in Kerala. Additional Engineer teams were also put on standby to move at short notice to the flood affected regions. 20 medical teams were moved to provide medical support to the rescued personnel in Maharashtra and Kerala. As on date more than 3000 have been deployed for flood relief and rescue operations in 17 districts of the four affected states. Lieutenant General SK Saini, medical aid and food while the Kohlapur and Sangli in Maharashtra General Officer Commanding-in- isolated people were distributed while 33 Relief Teams, 37 Engineer Chief, Southern Command visited the food packets and water. A special Teams continued to provide flood flood affected areas of Maharashtra helpline number 020 26357444 relief in Bagalkot, Raichur, Belgaum, and reviewed the ongoing relief and is functional for assistance of the Kalburgi and Kodagu districts of rescue operations being carried out citizens of Maharashtra. Similarly a Karnataka. In the state of Kerala, 24 by the brave and dauntless troops of helpline number has also been made Relief Teams, 21 Engineer Teams Southern Command . functional at Trivandrum (0471) were deployed for flood relief in A total of approximately 2352373, 2353030 for assistance Allepy, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, 10,000 persons have been rescued of all citizens of Kerala. Idukki, Malappuram, Wayanad, and more than 17,500 persons have As on August 10, 2019, a total Kannur and Kozhikodu districts while been evacuated from the flooded of 9 Relief Teams and 12 Engineer 6 Relief Teams were deployed in areas. The rescued and evacuated Teams were providing assistance Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu. persons were provided necessary to the flood affected persons of - PRO Army

22 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 Navy Mobilises Rescue Efforts

ith large parts of Maharashtra Wand Karnataka reeling under extensive flooding of both urban and rural areas caused by incessant rains and consequent overflowing of riverbanks and dams over the last few days, the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy has mobilised considerable resources to provide assistance to State and District administrations of affected areas. Despite adverse weather conditions and widespread include specialist Naval Divers and people stranded near Kadra Dam, inundation in affected areas, diving equipment. Once at site, the Kaiga on August 6, 2019. The team a total of 14 rescue teams of rescue teams evacuated stranded remained on task till midnight and the Western Naval Command, personnel to safety. was able to evacuate 500 people to including five teams from Goa Chikhli village, Shivaji bridge safety on the same day. On August Naval Area, have been operating at Kolhapur were some of the worst 7, the rescue team proceeded to in Kolhapur, Belgaum and Uttar affected areas where the naval teams Kannada districts of Maharashtra Hinduwada in Malapur area and rescued over 240 men, women and and Karnataka respectively since evacuated many more people giving children on August 7, 2019 and the August 5, 2019, with additional five priority to women, children and operations continued throughout rescue teams for Sangli district from critically ill patients to safer areas. the day on August 8 as well. Several Mumbai. The teams were deployed Another team was deployed to hundreds more have been rescued using Indian Navy Dornier aircraft Kovadu village in Belgaum district. from Chikhli to safer areas at Sontali and ALH helicopters as-well-as the A total of 869 people have been and Kolhapur. Some teams also Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters moved to safety in Karnataka. from Goa, Mumbai and Pune. operated in Aare village, Balinga Some teams proceeded by road Village and Rajapurwadi on August The Naval Teams were warmly when flying operations could not be 8, 2019. welcomed wherever they went with undertaken. The naval rescue teams In Karnataka, the Karwar Naval the locals even offering prayers for were equipped with Gemini rubber Area deployed a rescue team in the successful completion of the boats, loud hailers, first aid kits response to a request for assistance rescue efforts. and life jackets. Rescue teams also from the SP Uttara Kannada to rescue - PRO Navy

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 23 Independence Day Gallantry Awards and other Decorations

resident Shri Ram Nath Kovind, who is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, has approved 132 Awards to PArmed Forces Personnel and members of Paramilitary Forces. The awards include two Kirti Chakras, one Vir Chakra, 14 Shaurya Chakras, eight Bar to Sena Medals (Gallantry), 90 Sena Medals (Gallantry), five Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry),seven Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry) and five Yudh Seva Medals. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has approved four Mention-in-Despatches to the Army Personnel for their significant contributions in different military operations which include one posthumous for ‘Operation Anantnag Town’.

Sl. RANK AND NAME Service No. KIRTI CHAKRA 1. 16116742F SAPPER PRAKASH JADHAV, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS/FIRST BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES (POSTHUMOUS) 2. SHRI HARSHPAL SINGH, DY COMMANDANT, CRPF MHA VIR CHAKRA 1. WING COMMANDER VARTHAMAN ABHINANDAN (27981) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE SHAURYA CHAKRA 1. IC-64585A LIEUTENANT COLONEL AJAY SINGH KUSHWAH, THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES/3RD ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 2. SS-44986N MAJ VIBHUTI SHANKAR DHOUNDIYAL, THE CORPS OF ELECTRONIC AND MECHANICAL ARMY ENGINEERS/55TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES(POSTHUMOUS) 3. IC-79501Y CAPTAIN MAHESHKUMAR BHURE, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS/34TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 4. 19000555M LANCE NAIK SANDEEP SINGH, 4TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL ARMY FORCES)(POSTHUMOUS) 5. 2498034F SEPOY BRAJESH KUMAR, THE PUNJAB REGIMENT/22ND BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES(POSTHUMOUS) 6. 2706918P SEPOY HARI SINGH, THE GRENADIERS/55TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES(POSTHUMOUS) 7. 4101010K RIFLEMAN AJVEER SINGH CHAUHAN, 6TH BATTALION THE GARHWAL RIFLES ARMY 8. 9112648L RIFLEMAN SHIVE KUMAR, THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR LIGHT INFANTRY/31ST BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES (POSTHUMOUS) 9. AMIT SINGH RANA, LME (231243-B) NAVY 10. SHRI SABLE DNYANESHWAR SHRIRAM, CONSTABLE, 53 Bn CRPF MHA 11. SHRI ZAKER HUSSAIN, CONSTABLE, CRPF MHA 12. SHRI ASHIQ HUSSAIN MALIK, SPECIAL POLICE OFFICIAL(POSTHUMOUS) MHA 13. SHRI SUBASH CHANDER, HEAD CONSTABLE, J&K MHA 14. SHRI IMRAN HUSSAIN TAK, SUB INSPECTOR(POSTHUMOUS) MHA BAR TO SENA MEDAL(GALLANTRY) 1. IC-65402L COLONEL ASHUTOSH SHARMA, SENA MEDAL BRIGADE OF THE GUARDS/21ST BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 2. IC-75775M MAJOR K NAVEEN REDDY, SENA MEDAL THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS/42ND BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 3. IC-75898Y MAJOR SAGAR PRAKASH PARDESHI, SENA MEDAL THE ARMOURED CORPS/22ND ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 4. IC-76440F MAJOR TASOU PRAO, SENA MEDAL THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES/3RD BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 5. IC-78870K MAJOR MD SAHWAJ ALAM, SENA MEDAL THE ASSAM REGIMENT/42ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES

24 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 6. SS-44861W MAJOR KAUSTUBH PRAKASHKUMAR RANE, SENA MEDAL THE GARHWAL RIFLES/36TH ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES(POSTHUMOUS) 7. SS-45438H MAJOR MANISH KUMAR SINGH, SENA MEDAL THE ENGINEER REGIMENT/53RD ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 8. 3206908Y SEPOY SUNIL KUMAR, SENA MEDAL 20TH BATTALION THE JAT REGIMENT ARMY SENA MEDAL(GALLANTRY) 9. IC-63135W LIEUTENANT COLONEL RAJESH CHOUDHARY, 3RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) 10. IC-63390H LIEUTENANT COLONEL BHAGWAN SINGH BISHT, THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT/31ST ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 11. IC-63780L LIEUTENANT COLONEL PUNYABACHI MOHANTY, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) 12. IC-64702A LIEUTENANT COLONEL MOHAMMAD RAZA ISRAIL ARMY 13. IC-66127H LIEUTENANT COLONEL AMRENDRA PRASAD DWIVEDI, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) THE ASSAM REGIMENT/42ND BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 14. IC-66194N LIEUTENANT THAIBA SIMON, FIRST BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL ARMY FORCES) 15. IC-67429F MAJOR SANDEEP WASHISHT, THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT/31ST BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 16. IC-69616Y MAJOR JASWINDER SINGH, THE PUNJAB REGIMENT/53RD BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 17. IC-71076K MAJOR VIKAS KATOCH, THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES/52ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 18. IC-71121L MAJOR REVINDER BHAKHER, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL ARMY FORCES) 19. IC-71381W MAJOR UDAYAN THAKUR, THE ARMY SERVICE CORPS/50TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 20. IC-72222L MAJOR VIJESH KUMAR, THE MAHAR REGIMENT/FIRST BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY 21. IC-72379L MAJOR SACHIN KUMAR AGARWAL, THE MAHAR REGIMENT/30TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 22. IC-72667X MAJOR CHITRESH BISHT, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS/55TH ENGINEER ARMY REGIMENT(POSTHUMOUS) 23. IC-73715Y MAJOR KH SHEM, THE JAT REGIMENT/5TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY 24. IC-75222W MAJOR ASHISH KUMAR, 4TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) ARMY 25. IC-75470M MAJOR HAPPY CHARAK, 9TH BATTALION THE RAJPUTANA RIFLES ARMY 26. IC-77566N MAJOR YOGESH PANDEY, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS/9TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 27. SS-44375Y MAJOR LAXMAN SINGH, THE MECHANIZED INFANTRY/9TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 28. SS-45385P MAJOR PATHARKAR ANAND SHARAD, BRIGADE OF THE GUARDS/50TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 29. SS-45698N MAJOR JAVALKAR VAIBHAV PRAMOD, THE ARMOURED CORPS/55TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 30. SS-45948K MAJOR SOHAM BHATTACHARJEE, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS/FIRST BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 31. SS-46325M MAJOR SHAKTI SINGH, 23RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY 32. SS-46982W MAJOR INDER PREET SINGH, THE ARMOURED CORPS/22NDBATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 25 33. IC-78335 CAPTAIN SHIV KUMAR SHARMA, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL ARMY FORCES) 34. IC-78363W CAPTAIN KUNAL KUMAR, 21ST BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) ARMY 35. IC-78430W CAPTAIN PRATEEK RANJANGAONKAR, THE ASSAM REGIMENT/42ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 36. IC-79380H CAPTAIN SAURABH PATNI, THE CORPS OF SIGNALS/55TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 37. SS-47877M CAPTAIN ASHISH GEDION PAUDEL, 3RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY (SPECIAL FORCES) 38. JC-581558P SUBEDAR TRILOK SINGH, 3RD BATTALION THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES ARMY 39. JC-163472A NAIB SUBEDAR TARA CHAND, 16TH BATTALION THE ASSAM RIFLES ARMY 40. JC-414326P NAIB SUBEDAR RAVINDER SINGH, FIRST BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY (SPECIAL FORCES) 41. JC-414347P NAIB SUBEDAR JAI DEV, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) ARMY 42. 15135254X BATTERY HAVILDAR MAJOR HANS RAJ, THE COPRS OF ARTILLERY/66TH MEDIUM ARMY REGIMENT 43. 13627211K HAVILDAR SANDEEP MALIK, 12TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL ARMY FORCES) 44. 13766936P HAVILDAR BALINDER SINGH, 4TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL ARMY FORCES) 45. 14930228X HAVILDAR BALJEET, THE MECHANISED INFANTRY/50TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 46. 16011842N HAVILDAR BHUPENDRA SINGH, 23RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY 47. 2491094N HAVILDAR AJAY KUMAR RANA, THE PUNJAB REGIMENT/53RD BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 48. 2696528W HAVILDAR SHEO RAM, THE GRENADIERS/55TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY (POSTHUMOUS) 49. 3193710Y HAVILDAR RAKESH KUMAR, THE JAT REGIMENT/34TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY 50. 9108495 HAVILDAR JAVID AHMAD CHOPAN, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL ARMY FORCES) 51. 13624481N LANCE HAVILDAR VIJAY KUMAR, 23RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT(POSTHUMOUS) 52. 16018379A LANCE HAVILDAR SANDEEP KUMAR, 23RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY 53. 13625785X NAIK ASHWANI KUMAR, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) ARMY 54. 13763245X NAIK JANKAR SINGH, THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES/3RD BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 55. 14936964M NAIK SUNNY THAKUR, THE MECHANIZED INFANTRY/42ND BATTALION MECHANISHED ARMY 56. 3199522N NAIK RAMESH KUMAR, 20TH BATTALION THE JAT REGIMENT ARMY 57. 3202050W NAIK NARENDRA KUMAR, THE JAT REGIMENT/5TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY 58. 4199767A NAIK SANTOSH SINGH, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) ARMY 59. 16022429X LANCE NAIK SOMBIR, 23RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY 60. 2498145Y LANCE NAIK JAGTAR SINGH, THE PUNJAB REGIMENT/22ND BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 61. 4091346N LANCE NAIK SURENDRA SINGH, 4TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL ARMY FORCES) 62. 4577919 LANCE NAIK ANUJ KUMAR, THE MAHAR REGIMENT/FIRST BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY 63. 14941288M SEPOY KULWINDER SINGH, THE MECHANIZED INFANTRY/42ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES

26 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 64. 14943136K SEPOY JAGMOHAN SINGH, THE MECHANIZED INFANTRY/42ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 65. 14943610M SEPOY SAMARESH DEY, THE MECHANIZED INFANTRY/50TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 66. 14945629K SEPOY SUHAIL SINGH SAINI, THE MECHANIZED INFANTRY/42ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 67. 2621863 Y SEPOY S VIGI BHASKAR, 12TH BATTALION THE MADRAS REGIMENT ARMY 68. 2706086Y GRENADIER TAWSEEF YOUSUF, THE GRENADIERS/55TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 69. 2708496N GRENADIER AJAY KUMAR, THE GRENADIERS/55TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY (POSTHUMOUS) 70. 2817903 SEPOY PENTA NITHIN PAUL, 24TH BATTALION THE MARATHA LIGHT INFANTRY ARMY 71. 3206464A SEPOY SUNIL, THE JAT REGIMENT/34TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY 72. 3207037W SEPOY RINKU, THE JAT REGIMENT/34TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY 73. 4201892L SEPOY SUSHIL SINGH KALAKOTI, THE KUMAON REGIMENT/50TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 74. 4204572F SEPOY RAJVEER SINGH YADAV, THE KUMAON REGIMENT/50TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 75. 4381857H SEPOY PANKAJ BORO, THE ASSAM REGIMENT/42ND BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY 76. 4381860H SEPOY RAHUL DAS, THE ASSAM REGIMENT/42ND BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY 77. 4487854A SEPOY GULSHAN SINGH, THE SIKH LIGHT INFANTRY/19TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 78. 4491112X SEPOY HAPPY SINGH, THE SIKH LIGHT INFANTRY/19TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES(POSTHUMOUS) 79. 4582015N SEPOY YOGENDRA KUMAR, THE MAHAR REGIMENT/FIRST BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 80. 13775303H RIFLEMAN RAMESH SINGH DHAMI, 3RD BATTALION THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES ARMY 81. 13776050L RIFLEMAN RUPEN PRADHAN, 3RD BATTALION THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES ARMY 82. 13776291L RIFLEMAN SURINDER KUMAR, THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES/3RD BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 83. 16021892M RIFLEMAN PRADEEP KUMAR, THE RAJPUTANA RIFLES/9TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 84. 4094438L RIFLEMAN MANDEEP SINGH RAWAT, THE GARHWAL RIFLES/36TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES(POSTHUMOUS) 85. 4101212L RIFLEMAN PREETAM SINGH, 6TH BATTALION THE GARHWAL RIFLES ARMY 86. 9112892L RIFLEMAN RAYEES AH LONE, THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR LIGHT INFANTRY/50TH BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 87. G/3101952K RIFLEMAN NINGTHOUJAM SUBHACHANDRA SINGH, 31ST BATTALION THE ASSAM ARMY RIFLES(POSTHUMOUS) 88. 2707701X GRENADIER KARAM CHAND, 5TH BATTALION THE GRENADIERS ARMY 89. 13631345A PARATROOPER VIKRAM SINGH MEHTA, 3RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY (SPECIAL FORCES) 90. 14705438H PARATROOPER RAJENDRA SINGH, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIUMENT ARMY (SPECIAL FORCES) 91. 14940756P PARATROOPER NASEEB KUMAR, 10TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL ARMY FORCES) 92. 4091609F PARATROOPER GOPAL SINGH, 10TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL ARMY FORCES)

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 27 93. 4377529X PARATROOPER TARUNG SITANG, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL ARMY FORCES) 94. 15505841F SOWAR KISHAN SINGH, THE ARMOURED CORPS/55TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES(POSTHUMOUS) 95. 15715720X SIGNALMAN MANVENDRA SINGH, THE CORPS OF SIGNALS/3RD BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 96. 15332020M SAPPER P MADHU, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS/FIRST BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY 97. 16119562K SAPPER P BABU, THE MAHAR REGIMENT/FIRST BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY 98. 16123299F SAPPER RAHUL CHAVAN, THE ENGINEER REGIMENT/FIRST BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES NAO SENA MEDAL (GALLANTRY) 1. CAPTAIN NAVEEN THAPA, (03644-F) NAVY 2. LT CDR RUCHIR RAKESH KHAJURIA (06279-W) NAVY 3. SHRI NIWASH, SEA I (UW) (234830-F) NAVY 4. SHAMINDER SINGH, PO PT (222345F) NAVY 5. TAKHELLAMBAM RAKHESH SINGH, POCD (215876-B) NAVY VAYU SENA MEDAL (GALLANTRY) 1. GROUP CAPTAIN SAUMITRA TAMASKAR (25297) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 2. WING COMMANDER PRANAV RAJ (27193) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 3. WING COMMANDER AMIT RANJAN (28005) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 4. SQUADRON LEADER RAHUL BASOYA (29178) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 5. SQUADRON LEADER PANKAJ ARVIND BHUJADE (29682) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 6. SQUADRON LEADER B KARTHIK NARAYAN REDDY (30202) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 7. SQUADRON LEADER SHASHANK SINGH (32108) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE YUDH SEVA MEDAL 1. AIR COMMODORE SUNIL KASHINATH VIDHATE AVSM VM (18825) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 2. GROUP CAPTAIN YESHPAL SINGH NEGI VM VSM (23735) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 3. GROUP CAPTAIN HEMANT KUMAR (25615) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 4. GROUP CAPTAIN HANSEL JOSEPH SEQUEIRA (26081) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 5. SQUADRON LEADER MINTY AGGARWAL (31874), ADMINISTRATION/FIGHTER CONTROLLER AIR FORCE In addition, President Shri Ram Nath Kovind has also awarded one President's Tatrakshak Medal (Distinguished Service), five Tatrakshak Medals (Gallantry) and two Tatrakshak Medal (Meritorious Service) to the following Indian Coast Guard personnel for their act of conspicuous gallantry and distinguished/meritorious service. The detailed list of the awardees are as follows: (a) President's Tatrakshak Medal (Distinguished Service) (i) IG Thekkumpurath Prabhakaran Sadanandan, TM (4017-D) (b) Tatrakshak Medal (Gallantry) (i) DIG Yoginder Dhaka (0420-D) (ii) Comdt Anurup Singh (0620-J) (iii) Dy Comdt Utkersh Sharma (1189-C) (iv) Satish, P/Adh(RP),2816-Z (v) Trinatha Behera, U/Adh(R), 03608-Z (c) Tatrakshak Medal (Meritorious Service) (i) IG Maneesh Vishal Pathak (0241-V) (ii) DIG Neeraj Tiwari (0269-L) These awards are being given to the personnel of Indian Coast Guard on Republic Day and Independence Day every year, since January 26, 1990 onwards. - PRO Defence

28 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 RM Pays Homage to Former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee in Pokhran on His First Death Anniversary

aksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on August 16, R2019 visited Pokhran in Rajasthan where India had conducted nuclear tests in 1998 under the leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and paid homage to him on his first death anniversary. In a series of tweets, Shri Rajnath Singh described Atal ji as one of the stalwarts of Independent India and added that it is his good fortune that he has got this opportunity to pay his deepest respects to the former Prime Minister at Pokhran. Raksha Mantri said,“Pokhran is the area which witnessed Atal ji’s firm resolve to make India a nuclear power and yet remain firmly committed to the doctrine of a responsible nuclear nation is a matter of national pride ‘No First Use’. India has strictly adhered to this doctrine. for every citizen of the country and the nation will remain What happens in future depends on the circumstances.” indebted to the greatness of Atal ji. Shri Rajnath Singh said India attaining the status of - PRO Defence

Committee to review Defence Procurement Procedure

aksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has not below the rank of Joint Secretary/ iv) Wherever applicable, examine Rapproved setting up of a Committee Major General equivalent, are part of and incorporate new concepts, such under the Chairmanship of Director this high-level committee. as life cycle costing, life cycle support, General (Acquisition) to review the Terms of reference of the performance based logistics, ICT, Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) Committee include: lease contracting, codification & 2016 and Defence Procurement Manual i) Revise the procedures as given standardisation. (DPM) 2009. The Committee will revise in DPP 2016 and DPM 2009, so as v) Include provisions to promote and align the procedures with the aim to remove procedural bottlenecks and Indian start-ups and research & of ensuring seamless flow from asset hasten defence acquisition. development. acquisition to life cycle support. ii) Align and standardise the vi) Any other aspect which The DPP 2016 and DPM 2009 provisions in the DPP 2016 and DPM will contribute towards refining the have been due for revision. Aligning 2009, wherever applicable, to optimise acquisition process and support the the procedures will ensure seamless life cycle support for equipment. ‘Make in India’ initiative. flow from asset acquisition to life cycle iii) Simplify policy and procedures The Committee has been given six support and strengthen the ‘Make in to facilitate greater participation of India’ initiative of the Government. Indian Industry and develop robust months to submit its recommendations. Apart from DG (Acq) 11 other members, Defence Industrial base. - PRO Defence

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 29 Winners of Kargil War Quiz Honoured

aksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh Rhonoured the winners of the online quiz competition on Kargil War on August 14, 2019. The quiz was jointly organised by Ministry of Defence and MyGov.in from July 26 to August 4, 2019 on the occasion of 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas with the aim to create awareness and patriotic fervour among the people, mostly youth. Sixty thousand people from across the country participated in Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh with the winners of Kargil War online quiz competition in the quiz. Cash prizes were given to New Delhi on August 14, 2019. the top 10 winners, while 100 others the winners and appreciated their the recent government decision to received certificates from Raksha knowledge of the Kargil War. He nullify Article 370 and create Union Mantri. The youngest winner was a said the whole country was behind Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and 16-year old student, while the oldest our Armed Forces who secured a Ladakh. However, the neighbouring was a retired bank employee aged resounding victory for the nation. country has no courage to take on 63 years. He said the country is safe because us because it is very well aware of The winners attended the of the strength and valour of our the strength and capabilities of the Independence Day Flag Hoisting Armed Forces and the sacrifices Ceremony at Red Fort on August 15, made by them. Indian Armed Forces, he added. 2019. Shri Rajnath Singh said there has - PRO Defence Raksha Mantri congratulated been unease in Pakistan following pic: DPR Photo Divn

Raksha Mantri Approves Extension of Child Care Leave Benefits to Single Male Service Personnel

aksha Mantri Shri Rajanath CCL granted to woman employees approved by Raksha Mantri Shri RSingh has approved extension of till now has been extended to single Rajnath Singh. With this, single benefits of Child Care Leave (CCL) male government servants also. The male service personnel will be able to single male service personnel and age limit of 22 years prescribed to avail the benefit of CCL. Single certain relaxations of CCL provisions earlier in the case of a child with 40 male service personnel and woman in case of woman officers of defence percent disability has been removed officers of defence forces will also be forces, in line with a recent DoPT for the purpose of availing CCL. able to avail CCL in respect of child order extending similar benefits of Further, the minimum period of CCL with 40 percent disability without any CCL to civilian employees. that can be availed at a time has restriction of age limit of the child. Presently, CCL is being granted been reduced to 5 days instead of Further, the minimum period of CCL to woman officers in defence forces. 15 days. that can be availed in each spell has Recently, DoPT has made certain Now the proposal of Ministry of been reduced to 5 days from the amendments for grant of CCL to Defence extending similar benefits earlier limit of 15 days. civilian employees, whereby the to Defence personnel has been - PRO Defence

30 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 DRDO Successfully Tests Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles Against Live Aerial Targets

efence Research Development Organisation D(DRDO) successfully flight-tested its state-of-the-art Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM) against live aerial targets from Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur. Two missiles, developed by DRDO, were tested against two live targets meeting complete mission objectives of engaging the targets. QRSAM, with many state-of-the-art technologies, engaged the targets at Optical Tracking Systems, Radar Systems and Telemetry different ranges and altitudes. Systems. The systems have been tested in final configuration The system is being developed for Indian Army with radar mounted on a vehicle & missiles on the with search and track on move capability with very short launcher. reaction time. The systems are equipped with indigenously Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated developed Phased array radar, Inertial Navigation DRDO and Industries on achieving the significant System, Data Link & RF seeker. milestone. The entire mission was captured by various Electro - - PRO Defence Air Chief Inaugurates EAC Commanders Conclave in Shillong

hief of the Air Staff, Air Chief to be in operational readiness to target to propagation of false CMarshal BS Dhanoa inaugurated take on any task to safeguard the information through social media. a two-day Commanders Conclave skies of the nation. He discussed The CAS reiterated that the IAF of Eastern Air Command (EAC) at the prevailing security scenario and is in the process of transformation the HQ EAC, Upper Shillong on emphasised on the need for all air through modernisation, as well as, August 16, 2019. Air Marshal RD warriors to remain ever vigilant so upgradation of existing fleets and Mathur, Air Officer Commanding- that any attempt to degrade the weapon systems. However, this in-Chief, EAC welcomed the CAS operational efficiency of Indian Air also brings with it some challenges. and introduced the Commanders to Force could be easily thwarted. He There is an urgent requirement that him. cautioned that while constant vigil all IAF personnel adapt themselves The CAS, during his address to must be maintained to counter the to the rapidly changing inventory the commanders on the inaugural physical threat, at the same time one and associated high technology. day of the conclave, exhorted them should also guard against becoming He also conveyed his appreciation on successful completion of various exercises conducted by HQ EAC. Earlier on arrival, the Air Chief accompanied by Smt Kamalpreet Dhanoa, President Air Force Wives Welfare Association (AFWWA) were received by AOC-in-C, EAC and Smt Shipra Mathur, President AFWWA (Regional). A Ceremonial Guard of Honour was accorded to the CAS on his arrival. - PRO Kolkata

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 31 Attestation Parade of Paratroopers

n impressive Attestation Parade, in which 223 Arecruits passed out from the Parachute Regiment Training Centre after successful completion of 34 weeks training and joined the folds of the Parachute Regiment as Paratroopers in Bengaluru. The Parade was reviewed by Major General BD Rai, Deputy Commandant and Chief Instructor, Officers Training Academy, Gaya. The Parade was commanded by Recruit Ankit Bisht. Among the award winners were Recruit Sunil Singh who won the Gill Medal and Commandant’s Endurance Medal for overall Best Recruit and Best in Endurance. The Ghadge Medal for best in firing and weapon training was won by Recruit Shakti Singh Tomar. Cheema Medal for best Recruit in Physical Training was awarded to Recruit Ajith R and Chhetri Medal for Best Recruit in drill was awarded to Recruit Ankit Bisht. - PRO Bengaluru IAF Conducts Paramedical Seminar in Bengaluru

AF's Medical Training Centre at adapt to training methodologies The Chief Guest for the seminar IBengaluru, one of its oldest training so as to be ready to meet existing Air Vice Marshal Sudhir Rai, Principal institutes, conducted a two day and future combat challenges. The Medical Officer Headquarters Paramedical Seminar on “Training, seminar was only one of its kind for Training Command inaugurated Grooming and Specialisation - An the continuing Medical Education the seminar. Large number of Paramedics from various units in integrated Approach to Combat of Medical Assistants in the entire Indian Air Force, Indian Army and Readiness” in Bengaluru. The Armed Forces Medical Services Indian Navy attended the seminar. seminar, discussed the emerging and a unique event in that it was During the two days event various trends in Paramedical Training and conducted by Medical Assistants for scientific sessions and interesting and the need for medical assistants to Medical Assistants’. scintillating discussions were held on contemporary topics like Combat Readiness and the Paramedic, Duality of Role in combat: Steadfast and Compassionate and Towards the Pinnacle of Perfection, Specialist Paramedic in Combat Scenario. This was followed by a panel discussion which focused on Road Map for Alignment of training of Armed Forces Paramedics with future Combat requirements of the Military. The event helped in development of strategies for training of Paramedics in synergy with future combat requirements. - PRO Bengaluru

32 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 Ceremonial BPM between Indian Army and Chinese PLA

Ceremonial Border Personnel A Meeting (BPM) on the occasion of “Indian Independence Day” was conducted on August 15, 2019 at Indian BPM Huts at Chushul- Moldo and DBO -TWD Meeting Points of Eastern Ladakh. The Indian Delegations were led by Brigadier HS Gill and Col SS Lamba while Sr Col Yin Hong Chen and Lt Col Liming Ju headed the Chinese Delegations respectively. The Ceremonial BPMs were marked by saluting the National flag a cultural program showcasing the existing cordial relations and by both the delegation members. vibrant Indian culture and traditional maintaining peace along the LAC. This was followed by the ceremonial grandeur was organized, followed Both sides also sought to build on address by both Delegation Leaders by a lunch. the mutual feeling to uphold the which included exchange of greetings Both the delegations interacted treaties and agreements signed and Vote of Thanks and reflected the in a free, congenial and cordial between the governments of the mutual desire of maintaining and environment. The delegations two sides to maintain peace and improving relations at functional parted amidst feeling of friendship tranquility along the LAC. level at the border. Thereafter and commitment towards enhancing - PRO Udhampur Northern Army Commander Celebrates Independence Day with Troops in Forward Areas

he Northern Army Commander operations. He was appreciative of Lt Gen Ranbir Singh also TLt Gen Ranbir Singh accompanied the sharp vigil and alertness along appreciated the seamless by the Chinar Corps Commander Lt the Line of Control. The Army cooperation and synergy being Gen KJS Dhillon, visited Kupwara Commander lauded the high morale maintained amongst all the on the occasion of the 73rd agencies, which he said was the Independence Day. He interacted of the troops and exhorted them most critical aspect of successful with the troops and was briefed to remain alert to meet emerging about the recent counter infiltration security challenges. counter infiltration and counter terrorist operations. On this auspicious occasion, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh extended his greetings to the brave and dedicated personnel and families of the Northern Command and congratulated the proud gallantry award winners. The General officer also conveyed his warm greetings to the Awam of Jammu and Kashmir and reassured them of the Army’s commitment towards their safety, security and wellbeing. - PRO Udhampur

August 16-31, 2019 Sainik Samachar 33 PHOTOCALL

aksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad RY. Naik flagged off an Expedition Team of Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Darjeeling to Mt Elbrus, Russia, on August 6, 2019.

he Chairman Chiefs of Staff TCommittee and Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa exchanging memento with the Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan Bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, in New Delhi on August 5, 2019.

missile destroyer, JS Sazanami A of the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF), commanded by Commander Shoji Ishkawa, was on a two day goodwill visit to Kochi from August 13, 2019. The Commanding Officer called on Vice Admiral Anil Kumar Chawla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command on 13th August, and interacted over professional subjects of common interest.

34 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2019 pic: DPR Photo Division

The Union Minister for Defence, Rajnath Singh releasing the books on indigenisation efforts of defence equipment, at the seminar on ‘Modernisation and Indigenisation plans of the Indian Air Force’, in New Delhi on August 20, 2019. The Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa and the Air Officer-in charge Maintenance, Air Marshal S Choudhary are also seen. pic: DPR Photo Division

The Chief Minister of Nagaland, Shri Neiphiu Rio calling on the Union Minister for Defence, Rajnath Singh, in New Delhi on August 20, 2019. SAINIK SAMACHAR 16-31 August 2019 Postal Regd. No. DL(ND) 11-6075/2018-20 R.N.I. Regd. No. 800/57 English Licence No. U(C)-50/2018-20 Licenced to post without pre-payment Published on 16 Posted on 19-20 August 2019

Army Celebrates Rakshabandhan