In This Issue Since 1909 PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS TO THE NATION ’s 69th Independence Day 4

(Initially published as FAUJI AKHBAR) Vol. 62  No 16 25 Shravana - 9 Bhadrapada, 1937 (Saka) 16-31 August 2015

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 Independence Day Motto of ‘Unity and Hasibur Rahman 6 11 Editor Editor (Features) Celebrations... Discipline’ Dr Abrar Rahmani Ehsan Khusro Coordination Business Manager Sekhar Babu Madduri Dharam Pal Goswami Our Correspondents DELHI: Dhananjay Mohanty; Capt DK Sharma; Manoj Tuli; Nampibou Marinmai; Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva; Col Rohan Anand; Wg Cdr SS Birdi, Ved Pal; ALLAHABAD: Gp Capt BB Pande; BENGALURU: Dr MS Patil; CHANDIGARH: Parvesh Sharma; CHENNAI: T Shanmugam; GANDHINAGAR: Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman; GUWAHATI: Lt Col Suneet Newton; IMPHAL: Lt Col Ajay Kumar Sharma; JALANDHAR: Naresh Vijay Vig; JAMMU: Lt Col Manish Mehta; JODHPUR: Lt Col Manish Ojha; KOCHI: Cdr Sridhar E Warrier ; KOHIMA: Lt Col E Musavi; KOLKATA: Gp Capt TK Singha; LUCKNOW: Ms Gargi Malik Sinha; MUMBAI: Cdr Rahul Sinha; Narendra Vispute; NAGPUR: Wg Cdr Samir S Gangakhedkar; PALAM: Gp 18 The and 1965 The Battle of Barki 15 Capt SK Mehta; PUNE: Mahesh Iyengar; : MA Khan Shakeel; 20 Air Force Awardees SHILLONG: Gp Capt Amit Mahajan; SRINAGAR: Col NN Joshi; TEZPUR: Lt Col Sombith Ghosh; THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Suresh Shreedharan; UDHAMPUR: 22 Role of NCC Cadets in 1965 War Col SD Goswami; VISAKHAPATNAM: Cdr CG Raju. 26 Medical Officers Basic Course… Published by: Sitanshu Kar Director (Media & Communication) Regulars Directorate of Public Relations, South Block, Ministry of Defence, New Delhi-110011 27 Armed Forces Panorama Follow us on:

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OOnn ffrontront ccover:over: TThehe PrimePrime Minister,Minister, MrMr NNarendraarendra MModiodi uunfurlingnfurling tthehe TTricolourricolour fflaglag aatt tthehe rrampartsamparts ooff RReded FFort,ort, oonn tthehe ooccasionccasion ooff 669th9th IndependenceIndependence Day,Day, inin DDelhielhi oonn AugustAugust 15,15, 20152015 ppic:ic: GDGD MMehraehra PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS TO THE NATION India’s 69th Independence Day

ellow citizens: F On the eve of 68th anniversary of our Independence I extend warm greetings to you and to all Indians around the world. I convey my special greetings to members of our armed forces, paramilitary forces and internal security forces. I also congratulate all our sportspersons who have participated and won laurels in various tournaments in India and abroad. My congratulations to Mr Kailash Satyarthi, Nobel Peace Prize winner for 2014, who has done the country proud. On 15th August 1947, we won political freedom. The birth multiple freedoms. It turned liberty legislature, the executive and the of modern India was a moment into a living opportunity for the judiciary. The factors on which the of historic exhilaration; but it was oppressed and impoverished, working of those organs of the state also tinged with the blood of offered equality and positive depends are the people and the unimaginable suffering along the discrimination to the many millions, political parties they will set up as length and breadth of our country. who had suffered social injustice, their instruments to carry out their The ideals and convictions, that had and instituted a gender revolution wishes and their politics. Who can held through the travails of an epic that has made our country an say how the people of India and struggle against British rule, were example of progress. We abolished their parties will behave?” (unquote) under strain. archaic customs and laws, and If the institutions of democracy A great generation of supreme ensured change for women through are under pressure, it is time for heroes faced this formidable education and jobs. Our institutions serious thinking by the people and challenge. The sagacity and maturity are the infrastructure of this idealism. their parties. The correctives must of that generation saved our ideals The finest inheritance needs come from within. from deviation or degeneration constant care for preservation. Our Our country’s rise will be under the pressure of emotion, institutions of democracy are under measured by the strength of including rage. India’s pride, self- stress. The Parliament has been our values, but it will equally be esteem and self-respect, born converted into an arena of combat determined by economic growth from a civilizational wisdom which rather than debate. It is time to recall and equitable distribution of the inspired the renaissance that won what Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Chairman nation’s resources. Our economy us freedom, was distilled into the of the Drafting Committee of the promises much hope for the future. principles of our constitution by these Constitution, said while making his The new chapters of the ‘India Story’ extraordinary men and women. We closing speech in the Constituent are waiting to be written. ‘Economic have been blessed by a constitution Assembly in November 1949 and I reforms’ is a work-in-progress. Our that launched India’s march towards quote: performance over the last decade greatness. “The working of a constitution has been commendable; and it is The most precious gift of this does not depend wholly upon most heartening that after a dip, we document was democracy, which the nature of the constitution. have recovered to 7.3% growth in reshaped our ancient values into a The constitution can provide only 2014-15. But the benefits of growth modern context and institutionalized the organs of state, such as the must reach the poorest of the poor

4 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 much before they land in the bank patience. Vested interests chip away any attempt to use terrorism as an accounts of the richest of the rich. at social harmony, in an attempt to instrument of state policy. Infiltration We are an inclusive democracy, erode many centuries of secularism. into our territory and attempts to and an inclusive economy; there is In an age of instant communication create mayhem will be dealt with a place for everyone in the hierarchy through ever-improving technology, strong hand. we must remain vigilant to ensure of wealth. But the first call goes to I pay homage to the martyrs that the devious designs of a few those who suffer on the brink of who made the supreme sacrifice of never overcome the essential deprivation. Our policies must be their lives defending India. I salute oneness of our people. For both geared to meet the ‘Zero Hunger’ the courage and heroism of our government and people the rule of challenge in a foreseeable future. security forces who are maintaining law is sacrosanct, but society is also The symbiotic relationship an eternal vigil to safeguard the protected by something greater than between man and nature has to be law: humanity. Mahatma Gandhi territorial integrity of our country preserved. A generous nature when said and I quote: “You must not and the safety of our people. I violated can turn into a destructive lose faith in humanity. Humanity also specially commend the brave force leading to calamities resulting is an ocean; if a few drops of the civilians who boldly detained a in huge loss of life and property. ocean are dirty, the ocean does not hardened terrorist ignoring the risk Even as I speak, large parts of the become dirty” (unquote). to their own lives. nation are barely recovering from India is a complex country of floods. We need immediate relief Peace, friendship and 1.3 billion people, 122 languages, for the afflicted as well as long-term cooperation bind nations and 1600 dialects and 7 religions. Its solutions for the management of peoples together. Recognizing the strength lies in its unique capacity to both, water deficiency and excess. shared destiny of the Indian sub- continent, we must strengthen blend apparent contradictions into A nation which forgets the connectivity, expand institutional positive affirmations. In the words idealism of its past loses something capacity and enhance mutual trust of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, it is a vital from its future. Our educational to further regional cooperation. As country held together and I quote: institutions multiply as the aspirations we make progress in advancing “by strong but invisible threads….. of generations continue to exceed our interests globally, India is also About her there is the elusive quality supply. But what has happened engaged in pro-actively promoting of a legend of long ago; some to quality, from base to apex? We goodwill and prosperity in our enchantment seems to have held her recall the guru-shishya parampara immediate neighbourhood. It is mind. She is a myth and an idea, with legitimate pride; why then have heartening that the long pending a dream and a vision, and yet very we abandoned the care, devotion land boundary issue with Bangladesh real and present and pervasive” and commitment that is at the has been finally resolved. (unquote). heart of this relationship? A guru While we offer our hand willingly much like the soft and skilful hands On the fertile ground laid by our in friendship, we cannot stay blind to of a potter, moulds the destiny of Constitution, India has blossomed deliberate acts of provocation and a shishya. The student with devotion into a vibrant democracy. The roots deteriorating security environment. and humility acknowledges the debt are deep but the leaves are beginning India is a target of vicious terrorist to wilt. It is time for renewal. of the teacher. Society respects and groups operating from across the recognizes the merit and scholarship borders. Except the language of If we do not act now, will our of the teacher. Is that happening violence and the cult of evil, these successors seven decades hence in our education system today? terrorists have no religion and adhere remember us with the respect and Students, teachers and authorities to no ideology. Our neighbours admiration we have for those who must pause and introspect. must ensure that their territory is shaped the Indian dream in 1947? Our democracy is creative not used by forces inimical to India. The answer may not be comfortable, because it is plural, but diversity must Our policy will remain one of zero but the question has to be asked. be nourished with tolerance and tolerance for terrorism. We reject Jai Hind!

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 5 Independence Day Celebrations at Red Fort

he Prime Minister Mr Narendra TModi unfurled the National Flag from the ramparts of the Red Fort, on the occasion of the 69th Independence Day. After unfurling the Tricolour, Mr Narendra Modi addressed the nation. On arrival at Lahori Gate of Red Fort, the Prime Minister was received by the Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar, Minister of State for Defence Rao Inderjit Singh and Defence Secretary Mr G Mohan Kumar. The Defence Secretary The Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi being received by the Defence Minister on his introduced the General Officer arrival at Red Fort. The Minister of State for Planning (Independent Charge) and Defence, Commanding, Delhi Area, Lt Gen and the Defence Secretary are also seen. Rajan Ravindran to the Prime front of the National Flag across the The Army contingent for Prime Minister. The GOC Delhi Area then moat below the ramparts. Minister’s Guard is drawn from the conducted the Prime Minister to the This year, Navy being the 8th Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry Saluting Base where a combined coordinating Service, the Guard (Siachen). Inter-Services and Police Guards of Honour was commanded by After inspecting the Guard presented general salute to the Commander Yoginder Sharma of Honour, the Prime Minister Prime Minister. Thereafter, Mr of the Indian Navy. The Army proceeded to the ramparts of the Narendra Modi inspected the Guard Contingent in the Prime Minister’s Red Fort where he was greeted of Honour. Guard was commanded by Major by Defence Minister Mr Manohar The Guard of Honour Sumiran Vyas, the Navy contingent Parrikar, Minister of State for Defence contingent for the Prime Minister by Lt Cdr Chanoraveer Singh Yadav, Rao Inderjit Singh, Chief of the Army consisted of one officer and 24 men while Sqn Ldr Shakthi Vigneshwar Staff General Dalbir Singh, Chief of each from Army, Navy, Air Force led the Air Force contingent and the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha and Delhi Police. The Guard of Delhi Police contingent by SDPO Mr and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Honour was positioned directly in Rohit Meena. RK Dhowan. The GOC Delhi area

The Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi inspecting the Guard of Honour at Red Fort

6 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 “The unity, simplicity and brotherhood is the strength of this nation“ – PM The following are the excerpts of Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi’s address from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of Independence Day 2015 he Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Jeevan Jyoti Yojana, and the schemes TModi, highlighted the resolve launched for labour welfare. of 125 crore Indians, as “Team Describing children as the India”, to root out corruption, and greatest brand ambassadors for to make India a developed nation “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan,” the by 2022 – the 75th anniversary of Prime Minister said this vision had independence. generated great interest for the Addressing the Nation from people of India. the ramparts of the Red Fort The Prime Minister announced on the occasion of India’s 69th the “Start-Up India” initiative, which Independence Day, the Prime would encourage entrepreneurship Minister gave a broad overview of The Prime Minister said important among the youth of India. He said the achievements of Team India, steps had been taken in the drive each of the 1.25 lakh bank branches, over the last 15 months. He said that against black money, and the outflow should encourage at least one Dalit the unity, simplicity and brotherhood of unaccounted income to foreign or Adivasi entrepreneur, and at least of 125 crore Indians, is the strength destinations had been checked. one woman entrepreneur. “Start-Up of this nation, and casteism and The Prime Minister stressed India, Stand-Up India,” the Prime communalism have no place in our Minister said. society. on the need for farmers’ welfare, and declared that the Ministry of On the long-standing demand The Prime Minister explained Agriculture would be renamed as the from ex-serviceman for One-Rank, how various initiatives of his Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ One-Pension, the Prime Minister Government have resulted in Welfare. He said that his Government reiterated that the demand had been removing corruption from different was focusing on raising farm accepted by the Government “in- aspects of governance. In this productivity, and providing electricity principle.” He said the modalities context, he highlighted the auctions and irrigation to farmers. He said the were being worked out with of coal, spectrum and FM radio Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana stakeholders, and he was hopeful of licenses. He mentioned the PAHAL had been launched with an outlay of a positive outcome. scheme for direct transfer of LPG Rs 50,000 crore. subsidy, which has resulted in The Prime Minister reiterated savings of Rs 15,000 crore. He said The Prime Minister recalled his Government’s resolve to make the introduction of “neem-coated some of the resolves he had made India a developed nation by 2022, urea” has helped to end diversion of in his Independence Day address last with a house and access to basic subsidized urea to non-agricultural year. He said the promise of toilets in services like electricity, to all. He purposes. He acknowledged all schools had been almost fulfilled, said the Government had resolved that the common man still faces with the cooperation of States. He to connect with electricity, all the problems because of corruption. said financial inclusion had received 18,500 villages which still remain The Prime Minister described a big boost with the opening of 17 without power, within the next 1000 corruption as a termite, which needs crore bank accounts through the days. He also reiterated his vision for bitter medicine, with possible side- Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. He the development of eastern India. effects, to cure. Through the various said the Rs 20,000 crore deposited in Questioning the practice of initiatives of the Government, the the Jan Dhan accounts reflected the “interviews” for recruitments even Prime Minister highlighted how each “richness of India’s poor”. at relatively junior levels, the Prime had contributed to the elimination of The Prime Minister also spoke Minister called upon concerned middlemen. He said that in the last of the welfare schemes launched by departments to end this practice at year, the CBI had registered 1800 the Union Government, including the earliest, and to promote merit by cases against corruption, as against Atal Pension Yojana, Pradhan Mantri recruiting only through transparent, 800 in the year before that. Suraksha Yojana, Pradhan Mantri online processes.

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 7 Defence Minister Calls upon the Armed Forces to Brace themselves for any Situation The following are the excerpts of Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar’s customary address to the Armed Forces personnel broadcast over All India Radio on the eve of Independence Day. My dear Jawans, towards the welfare and wellbeing of We shall be celebrating our serving and ex-servicemen. Various 69th Independence Day. On this welfare measures pertaining to occasion, I extend my heartiest pension including broadbanding, greetings and best wishes to each ex-gratia compensation and OROP one of you serving in the Armed are receiving highest priority of the Forces, be it the Army, Navy, Air Government. Force or Coast Guard. I also I am also concerned about the extend my greetings to all veterans huge number of cases on service and ex-servicemen and their family violations in Jammu & Kashmir from matters pending in different courts members. across the border and attempts of of the country including different As I speak to you, my thoughts terrorists to infiltrate into the country. benches of Armed Forces Tribunals. I are with the near and dear ones of You have also been in the personally feel that redressal of your all those who laid down their lives forefront of massive relief and grievances should be expeditiously for the protection of our nation. rescue operations, both in India and looked into, so that you give full You are performing the task of outside. Be it providing succour to the concentration to your duties. We have protecting the nation’s sovereignty flood victims in Jammu & Kashmir, recently formed a high level panel to and territorial integrity as also Gujarat, North-East, and more suggest necessary steps to lessen the defending the motherland from the recently, to the victims of devastating number of such cases in courts. Once destructive designs of anti-national earthquake in neighbouring Nepal its recommendations are received, we forces. or evacuation of Indian and will take corrective measures. The whole nation was in full foreign nationals from war-torn Pension related issues constitute admiration of your daring operation Yemen. As friendly neighbours, our the biggest number of grievances. against the insurgents which you armed forces were also the first to As you know, a system of holding undertook very creditably along the respond to the drinking water crisis Pension Adalat is in place to provide Indo-Myanmar border. I compliment in Maldives when its desalination a credible forum for redressal the Special Forces for undertaking plants shut down. of grievances of the defence this surgical strike smoothly and My dear Jawans, since I took pensioners. A computerised pension without any casualty on our side. over the reins of Defence Ministry enquiry project “Suvigya” has been You have also successfully and in November last year, it has been developed by the Controller General effectively repulsed all ceasefire my constant endeavour to work of Defence Accounts. It is an online

8 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 pension enquiry system which would any misadventure from across the are important landmarks of our enable the ex-servicemen to know borders. Therefore, keeping our endeavour to build a Blur Water their entitlements of pensions. I war machinery in readiness and Navy. Commissioning of a number am happy to inform you that the to be able to mobilise troops to of marine police stations, naval number of complaints regarding forward positions at short notice is bases including INS Sardar Patel incorrect payment or incorrect imperative. At the same time, there is revision of pension have come down the need to constantly upgrade and and establishment of a new Coast substantially. modernise the weapon systems and Guard Air Enclave at Bhubaneswar Considering the hardships and equipment. We have taken a number will strengthen the coastal security agony of long separations of Jawans of steps to equip our forces with the of the country. best of the arms currently available from their families when serving in The government is taking and are constantly striving to make forward and high altitude areas, measures to equip the Navy with we are working on the Married most of them indigenously. Since the state-of-the-art warships, Accommodation Project to provide taking over, our government has so submarines and naval helicopters. nearly 2.7 lakh dwelling units for the far sanctioned acquisition proposals married personnel near their places worth over 1,60,000 crore rupees. I also congratulate the of posting. Over eight hundred 155 mm scientists and technologists of The government has also taken mounted artillery guns for the Indian DRDO and other defence related a big step towards making the Army worth nearly 16 thousand establishments for their good work crore rupees are also being acquired a digitised force. In line in equipping our Armed Forces with and more ammunition purchased to with the Digital India Project of the the latest state-of-the-art weapons Prime Minister, a special software enhance the fire-power. and equipment, developed and system ARPAN or Army Record Recently, the indigenously Officers Process Automation has designed, developed and produced produced indigenously. been launched recently. This will Akash Air Defence missile system was With these words, I once again enable more than 12 lakh junior formally handed over to the Indian extend my greetings to all of you commissioned officers and jawans Air Force. The contract negotiations and your family members on the eve of Indian Army to access their service are also underway for procurement of Independence Day. Let us take a records and employment details of 36 Rafale aircrafts from France, pledge on this festival of freedom to online even as the records of the to provide a major boost to the IAF’s officers of the force are already on operational capability. defend and serve our motherland with all our might and to the best of the web. The recent undocking of The government is well aware of India’s indigenous aircraft carrier our abilities, for a better and brighter the need to maintain all round vigil in the making, INS Vikrant and future. on the nation’s borders, to prevent the first of Scorpene submarines Jai Hind!

conducted the Prime Minister to the dais to unfurl the National Flag. The unfurling of the tri-colour synchronised with the 21 Gun Salute fired by the valiant gunners of the elite 871 Field Regiment. The ceremonial battery was commanded by Lt Col Aditya Kumar Devrani and the Gun Position Officer was Regiment Havildar Major (Assistant Instructor in Gunnery) Sonu Yadav. The National Flag Guard

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 9 comprising 32 men and one officer each from Army, Navy, Air Force and Delhi Police presented Rashtriya Salute at the time of unfurling of the National Flag by the Prime Minister. Commander Harpreet Singh from Indian Navy was in command of this Inter-Services Guard and Police Guard. The Naval Contingent for the National Flag Guard was commanded by Lt Cdr Adil Mohideen, the Army contingent by Maj Kundan Singh, Air Force contingent by Sqn Ldr Himanshu Singh and Delhi Police contingent by Additional DCP Mr Deepak Gauri. The Naval Band played National Anthem when the National VSSG Rao and Lieutenant Pramod National Flag Guard was drawn from Guard presented ‘Rashritya Salute’ were positioned on either side of the the 9th Battalion of the Garhwal Rifles. while unfurling the National Flag saluting dais for the Prime Minister After unfurling the National by the Prime Minister. The Band for ADC duties. Lt Commander Flag, the Prime Minister addressed was commanded by S Jankiraman, Deepika Choudhary assisted the the Nation. After the Prime Minister’s Master Chief Petty Officer Musician Prime Minister in unfurling of the address, school children and NCC 2nd Class. National Flag. Cadets sang the National Anthem. Two Naval Officers, Lieutenant The Army contingent for the Seven hundred cadets of the National Cadet Corps coming from 20 schools of Delhi Directorate comprising Army, Navy and Air Force wings were participating in the flag hoisting ceremony this year. The cadets took part in the singing of patriotic songs along with the school children. In total, three thousand five hundred girl students from 45 government schools of eastern, north-eastern, northern, north-western, and central zones of Directorate of Education, Government of Delhi sang the National Anthem. They also sang patriotic songs in different regional languages during the celebrations. On this occasion these school children displayed the formation of ‘Jai Bharat’. - N Ao pix: Vijay Kumar, Naresh Kumar and Rajesh Kumar

10 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 INTERVIEW Motto of ‘Unity and Discipline’

Lt Gen A Chakravarty, Director General, NCC spoke at length about his priorities in an exclusive interview with Sainik Samachar’s Editor-in-Chief Hasibur Rahman. The following are some excerpts from this interview.

NCC is a large organisation, what are its aims and its present set up? The aim with which NCC was created was to develop Character, Comradeship, Discipline, Leadership, Secular Outlook, Spirit of Adventure and ideals of Selfless Service amongst the youth of the Country. NCC also aims to create a Human Resource of organised, trained and motivated youth, to provide leadership in all walks of life and be always available for the service to the Nation. It provides a suitable environment to motivate the youth to take up career in the Armed Forces. units under them with each headed throughout the country providing The NCC is a Tri-Service by an Additional Director General NCC coverage to all districts in the organisation, headed by a Director / Deputy Director General of the country. General of the rank of Lieutenant rank of Maj Gen / / NCC is the largest volunteer General of the Army. There are 17 (in case of Navy uniformed youth organisation in regional Directorates controlling the and Air Force). There are 96 NCC the world and has an authorised training and administration of NCC Groups and 800 units located strength of 13.8 lakh cadets. The organisation has spread from North to the South and from West to the East of the country. How does NCC train its cadets? What is the methodology used for training the cadets? We in the NCC take training of cadets very seriously. Training in NCC is carried out in four broad categories i.e., Institutional Training and Camp Training, Social Service and Community Development Activities, Youth Exchange Programme and Adventure/ Sports Activities. The aim of this training is to expose the youth to a regimental way of life and inculcate in them The Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi with (from left to right) Chief of Naval Staff, Minister the values of discipline, personality of State for Defence, Defence Minister, DG NCC, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Air Staff development and orderliness.

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 11 comradeship, courage, team spirit, spirit of adventure, sportsmanship and above all self-confidence amongst the cadets. The cadets are provided excellent adventure opportunities including trekking, rock climbing, mountaineering, para sailing, sailing, kayaking, yachting, microlite flying, slithering, cycle and motor-cycle expeditions. What do you think have been the major achievements of NCC till now during your tenure as DG NCC? NCC has achieved laurels in Lt Gen A Chakravarty, DG, NCC interacting with Hasibur Rahman, Editor-in-Chief, Sainik Samachar many fields. It has produced leaders All enrolled cadets go through other such social schemes. in all walks of life. Prime Minister, External Affairs Minister, Defence the Institutional Training in their NCC has a vibrant Youth Minister and the Minister of State respective Schools/Colleges as per Exchange Programme with ten specified syllabi. NCC also conducts (Defence) have been NCC Cadets. countries. NCC delegations classes on Personality Development International level shooters like comprising cadets and officers visit and Leadership. Anjali Bhagwat and Minister of State these friendly foreign countries to for Information and Broadcasting Camp Training is another increase their awareness and mutual important part of NCC curriculum Col Rajya Vardhan Singh Rathore, understanding with their counterparts and helps in developing camaraderie, AVSM (Retd) have also been NCC in these countries. team spirit, dignity of labour, self- Cadets. Presently, all our three confidence and the important aspect NCC carries out lot of Service Chiefs are ex NCC cadets. of unity and discipline. Camps are adventure activities for its cadets. NCC Cadets from all NCC conducted annually at various levels Adventure training in NCC develops Directorates actively participate in culminating into the National Level essential qualities of leadership, various sports activities at the State Republic Day Camp and Prime Minister’s Rally in January. NCC has adopted social service and community development activities with the aim of imbibing amongst cadets selfless service to the community, dignity of labour, importance of self-help, need to protect the environment and to assist in the upliftment of the weaker sections of the society. This is conducted through programmes involving Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Safe Sanitation Awareness Campaign, Adult Education, Tree Plantation, Blood Donation, visit to Old Age Homes, Blind Children Schools, Orphanages and numerous

12 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 all over the country participate in these games. This year the event will be conducted in Delhi from October 6-18, 2015. NCC team participates in the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) events like All India GV Mavlankar Shooting Championship every year. 43 Cadets participated in All India GV Mavlankar Shooting Championship Competition-2014 and NCC shooting team won 10 medals including three golds. In the year 2014-15, 26 NCC shooters were selected for 57th National Shooting Championship Competition. NCC cadets of Remount & Veterinary units and National level. NCC National youth from NCC, belonging to rural participated in various National level Games are held annually since and urban areas to participate at equestrian competitions in 2014 2013, giving opportunity to the National level. 2200 Cadets from and won 23 Gold, 14 Silver and 15

NCC Creates Record on International Day of Yoga ational Cadet Corps (NCC), Nthe premier youth organisation of the nation created a record for the largest yoga performance simultaneously at multiple venues by a single uniformed youth organisation on June 21, 2015. The cadets performed the asanas as per the protocol given by the Ministry of Ayush from 0700 to 0735 am at all venues including Rajpath in New Delhi. The performance of yoga by more than 9,50,000 NCC cadets on International Day of Yoga was conducted pan India at 1768 venues, including Leh in phenomenal achievement by itself. adventure activities aimed at the North, Dwarka in the West, The NCC has been at the all-round development of its Tezu (Arunachal Pradesh) in the forefront of ‘Nation Building’ by cadets. This unique record on the East, Nagarcoil (Kanyakumari) grooming the youth into disciplined ‘International Day of Yoga’ has in the South and in the islands citizens. It has been conducting added another feather to the cap of Andaman and Nicobar and social awareness and community of this youth organisation. Lakshadweep, which was a development programmes and - D Mohanty with Lt Col U Kohli

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 13 road map for the NCC and how do you see NCC shaping up in the years to come? National Cadets Corps is the largest uniformed youth organisation in the world. Its activities have progressively increased over a period of time in keeping with the objectives laid down by the Government and the aspirations of all stake holders – society, youth, teachers and parents. The Corps, through its wide range of programmes, has helped in transforming a number of young boys and girls into responsible citizens of the country and direct their energies towards Nation Building. Some of our future aims are to meet the aspirations of the youth of the nation by expanding so as to take Bronze medals in various National participated enthusiastically, on maximum number of youth in the Level Equestrian Championships. International Day of Yoga on folds of NCC, increase strength of June 21, 2015. NCC recorded a NCC teams in junior boys girl cadets all across India. and sub junior boys and junior participation of 9,50,163 cadets We also want to conduct ‘All girls categories participated in at 1768 venues spread all over Girls Expedition to Mount Everest’ the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru India. The encouragement given by in 2016, encourage and enhance Hockey Tournament 2014, where the Prime Minister, to NCC during sports participation amongst the they played against some of the PM’s Rally on January 28, 2015 cadets. best teams in the country. NCC for maximum participation has teams in Junior boys and Sub-Junior been fulfilled with full vigour and Improving infrastructure in boys and Junior girls categories enthusiasm. NCC is going to be a major focus participated in prestigious Subroto NCC cadets during 2014-15 area in the years to come. We want Cup Football Tournament 2014, have contributed immensely towards to enhance and facilitate cadets where they played against some of the betterment of the society. Over desirous of joining armed forces the best teams in the country. NER one lakh cadets actively participated as officers and enhance spread of Directorate Junior girls team reached in this national campaign launched NCC in border areas, coastal areas the semifinals of the tournament & by Prime Minister, to include and insurgency prone areas. Maharashtra Directorate and NER cleaning, maintaining and repair In order to enable our cadets to Directorate Sub Junior boys reached of community toilets, cleaning of explore the diversity of our country the quarter finals of the tournament. common areas in the city, cleaning we want to increase camps and give The Girls have successfully of statues of national leaders, river/ opportunity to cadets to move out of climbed Mt Deo Tibba (6001m) as talab side cleaning, hundred hours of their districts and states. part the two Girls expedition planned volunteer service, pledge not to litter In this changing environment, in 2015. This is a precursor to the on road. More than one lakh cadets NCC needs to be dynamic and all-Girls expedition to Mt Everest participated in an afforestation modern. We also want to educate planned in 2016. campaign, participation in Anti- the youth about contemporary Tobacco Drive, AIDS awareness Overcoming numerous environment and social issues to make drive and Anti-Cancer Campaign. challenges and complexities of a them more responsible citizens. pan-India coverage, NCC cadets What according to you is the future pix: Vijay Kumar

14 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 GOLDEN JUBILEE OF 1965 WAR The Battle of Barki

y September 1, 1965, Pakistan Bplans under ‘Operation Gibralter’ laid in tatters. Most infiltrators were killed or driven out from Kashmir and Haji Pir Pas fell to determined Indian attacks. ‘Operation Grand Slam’ was launched by Pakistan in Chamb Sector to severe Indian lines of communication to Jammu & Kashmir. Such move was anticipated, and on September 3, 1965, Army Headquarters gave the ‘Go Ahead’ to put our offensive plans into effect in Punjab Sector, with the primary objective of threatening Lahore. Defence Minister at site of bridge at Barki blown up by enemy (Source: Photo Division of Barki Ministry of Defence) The road from Harike (Punjab, had deployed one company in Barki India) to Lahore passed through village, two companies on the East Barki, which was located astride Bank of the Ichhogil Canal and a Ichhogil Canal (9.5 km from the company of the Reconnaissance International Border and 24 km and Support Battalion ahead of from Lahore). The Upper Bhuchar defences. Barki could challenge the Distributary and Hudiara Drain best in any unit. were obstacles enroute to Barki. 11 Corps Plan (Operation Riddle) The buildup areas of Hudiara, The Corps was to launch three Nurpur, Barka Kalan and Barka simultaneous thrusts along the Axes Khurd lay on approaches to Barki, GT Road, Bhikkiwind-Barki and, were well defended and had to be Bhikkiwind-Khem Karan-Kasur with cleared. The defences of Barki were the aim of securing the East Bank formidable; concrete pill boxes, of Ichhogil Canal. 4 Mountain extensive tunneling and adequate Division, 7 & 15 Infantry Division artillery support had converted it Subedar Ajit Singh, MVC (posthumous) of were orbatted to the Corps. 7 Infantry into a virtual fortress. The enemy 4 SIKH division was tasked to capture Barki and mop up enemy on east bank of Ichhogil Canal. 48 & 65 Infantry Brigades and Central India Horse (CIH) were allocated for the task at hand. Advance to Hudiara Preliminary operations commenced at 0445 hrs on September 6, 1965 and posts held by Satlej Rangers were captured by own troops. By 0700 hrs, 48 Infantry Brigade had contacted enemy defences at Hudiara, and came Dr S Radhakrishnan, , visiting 4 SIKH under effective fire. By 1030 hrs, 6/8

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 15 entire front of the village and also from the Ichhogil Canal Bank. The assaulting companies continued to inch forward towards their objectives through sheer grit and determination. The Sikhs pressed on regardless, systematically silencing one pill box after another. CIH less two squadrons provided aggressive fire support to assaulting troops. By 2110 hours on September 10, the village of Barki was wrested from the enemy. 4 SIKH suffered three JCOs Indian Gun position in the Barki Sector (Sorce: Sanik Samachar of January 15, 1966) and 20 ORs killed and two officers, one JCO and 93 ORs wounded. Gorkha Rifles had secured Hudiara  Phase 1.4 SIKH to capture Barki Sub Ajit Singh was awarded MVC, Village, but could not progress Village. posthumously. The battalion was operations further onto Hudiara  Phase 2.16 PUNJAB to capture conferred with the Battle Honour Drain due to enemy fire. Meanwhile East Bank of Ichhogil Canal and ‘Barki’ and Theatre Honour ‘Punjab’ 5 GUARDS attacked Nurpur by an destroy the Barki Bridge. for its gallant actions. outflanking maneauver, forcing enemy to withdraw from Hudiara 4 SIKH, post detailed While 4 SIKH were battling their Drain but not before they blew up appreciation decided to take the way through the village of Barki, the bridge spanning 140 feet. The frontal approach and H Hour was 16 PUNJAB were pushing up to the bridge was reconstructed by own fixed at 2000 hrs on September 10, East bank of the Ichhogil Canal in engineers by 1545 hrs on September 1965. When assaulting companies the second phase of the brigade 7. commenced move from FUP, enemy attack. As the battalion reached the opened up with its mortars, artillery outskirts of Barki, it ran into intense General Officer Commanding and automatics from the village. enemy shelling and very heavy 7 Infantry Division, appreciating that Enemy fire was coming from the small arms and automatic fire from 48 Infantry Brigade had suffered fairly heavy casualties in the battle for Hudiara Drain, switched 65 Infantry Brigade Group into the lead with the task of securing the Ichhogil Canal at Barki. The Battle of Barki 65 Infantry Brigade Group resumed its advance on to Barki, with 9 MADRAS and a squadron of CIH. 9 MADRAS captured Barka Kalan towards the evening of September 7, 1965. On September 9, 16 PUNJAB captured Barka Khurd and with that the inner defence ring of Barki was laid bare for the main assault. 65 Infantry Brigade planned to carry out Picture taken after the fall of Burki shows the wreckage of enemy vehicles attack in two phases:- (Source: Sanik Samachar of January 15, 1966)

16 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 concrete pill-boxes. Meanwhile, the tanks of CIH came up and started shooting at the enemy defences. The intensity of the attack forced many of the enemy to jump into the canal, leaving their weapons behind. By 2340 hours on September 10, the unit was in undisputed possession of their objective. The enemy however, managed, to demolish the bridge over the canal before retreating. Lt Col SC Joshi, Commanding Officer of CIH was killed while negotiating an enemy minefield. 16 PUNJAB suffered 21 killed and 50 wounded during the attack. The battalion was awarded the Battle Honour of ‘Barki’. Gen JN Chaudhary, COAS visiting 16 PUNJAB at Barki After retreating across the and exodus of civilians from Lahore. job of winkling the enemy out of Ichhogil Canal, the Pakistanis, Maj Gen HK Sibal, GOC 7 their emplacements and bunkers by retaliated with a heavy artillery Infantry Division had this to say about lobbing grenades into them and this concentration – approximately 2000 took quite some doing. The grit and the operations (Extracted from Sainik rounds on Barki and the canal. Own determination displayed by the crew Samachar of January 15, 1966):- troops held on. Own artillery was of CIH, was something fantastic. In also staged forward and a few shells “The enemy resistance was very spite of tanks being crippled in the landed on Lahore, triggering panic stiff and the troops did an excellent minefield, they still kept on firing at the enemy and just refused to let him put his head up”. Summing Up By September 10, 7 Infantry Division of 11 Corps had made a rapier like thrust and created a wedge in enemy territory, with capture of Barki. In addition, own 1 Corps offensive was launched into Sialkot Sector and Shakargarh Bulge, creating multiple vulnerabilities into the heart land of Pakistan Punjab. However, Pakistani offensive by its coveted 1 Armoured Division towards Khem Karan was threatening to outflank own 11 Corps. In days to come, history was to be written in Phillora (Pakistan) and Asal Uttar (India). These battle accounts would be told in subsequent editions of ‘Sanik Samachar’. Indian troops at Barki police station (Source: Photo Division of Ministry of Defence) - Col Rohan Anand

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 17 INDO-PAK WAR 1965 The Indian Navy and 1965

fter China’s attack on India’s Anorthern frontiers in 1962, the Army’s hands were more than full and the Indian Navy had been charged with the garrisoning of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Commencing 1964 onwards, Indonesia’s stance was markedly pro- Pakistan. Indonesian leaders started voicing claims to Great Nicobar Island, which was closest to Sumatra and there was an increase in the sightings of unidentified submarines and aircraft in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It was this vulnerability in July/ August 1965 that impelled Naval Headquarters to keep the Indian Fleet in the Bay of Naval operations in the Arabian Sea in September 1965 Bengal far as long as possible, so increased further during the first week territories. The tasks envisaged were: as to deter adventurist Indonesian of August culminating in a large first, to carry out sweeps off the West naval moves. number of armed infiltrators crossing Coast of Pakistan to disrupt the Port the cease-fire line in Kashmir on of Karachi and inflict heavy damage The Indian Fleet comprising August 5, 1965. In spite of continued on port installations; next, the Mysore (Flagship), Brahmaputra, efforts made by India to ensure peace, destruction of Pakistan Naval Forces Beas, Khukri, Kirpan, Kuthar and the situation soon aggravated and the if ordered; third, provision of general Ranjit sailed for the Bay of Bengal Indian Army had to take preventive support for the defence of the major in end June 1965. It had been measures in Kashmir to plug the ports on the West Coast; and fourth, arranged for a British Submarine entry points of these infiltrators. Since the provision of general cover and Astute to be available off Madras in July for anti-submarine training, Pakistan was likely to extend the war protection to our merchant ships in after which it was planned that ships to the Arabian Sea as well, Karachi the Arabian Sea, especially those of the Fleet deploy off Andaman being its main naval base, the Indian plying to and from the Persian Gulf & Nicobar Islands, Calcutta and Navy decided to initiate necessary and the Red Sea. Visakhapatnam. actions to prepare the fleet for the India’s policy, however, was not probable war. Accordingly, Mysore, to escalate the conflict by a direct Brahmaputra and Beas, after Thus, it was in the middle of the confrontation at sea. Given the completion of the exercise off deployment of the Indian Fleet to the Government’s determination to limit Madras, were deployed in the Bay of Bengal and before the second the scope of the conflict as much as Andaman and Nicobar Islands in group of ships Khukri, Kirpan, Kuthar possible, the role assigned to the August 1965 while the remaining and Ranjit had finished exercising Navy during the war was mainly a four ships remained deployed off with the British submarine off Madras defensive one. Madras (Chennai) to continue the (Chennai), that the Indian Fleet was Nevertheless, the Indian Navy anti-submarine exercises. In end immediately recalled to Bombay, remained vigilant to ensure the safety August 1965, Mysore, Brahmaputra as crossed the of Indian ports, guard the country’s and Beas proceeded to Calcutta. international border on September entire coast line and above all protect As is well known, Pakistan had 1, 1965 and advanced towards India’s shipping from interference by been committing violations of the Akhnoor. the . Whereas most of Indo-Pak border throughout the The Indian Navy’s role was the Pakistani shipping was carried on summer months of 1965 and the maritime defence of the Western neutral bottoms, India’s shipping was frequency of these violations had and Eastern Coasts and the island largely borne by Indian ships – 250

18 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 of them were owned by India, while the duration of the war. On one then located at Jamnagar in only 30 merchant ships belonged to occasion, the Navy’s Alize aircraft Gujarat, were placed under the Pakistan. sighted two Pakistani ships 60 miles operational control of the Indian Intelligence on the disposition off India’s west coast. The Ships of Air Force on September 2, 1965 for of the Pak naval forces had indicated the Indian Fleet at once pursued the offensive action against the enemy. that the Pak submarine Ghazi was enemy, who without giving battle, All Naval Air Squadrons – INAS 300 at sea and was likely to have been scurried back to Karachi. In fact, (Seahawk fighter squadron), INAS deployed off Bombay for anti- for most of the duration of the war, 310 (Alize anti-submarine aircraft shipping operations and the Pak Pakistani Navy was ensconced in squadron), INAS 550 (Seahawk and Fleet had been proceeding to sea Karachi, seeking safety behind heavy Alize trainer squadron) and INAS every day for exercises and returning shore defences. 551 (Kiran jet trainer squadron) to its anchorage in the evening. The Indian Navy’s anti- were deployed for reconnaissance and anti-shipping roles and for the The Indian Fleet was led by the submarine task-force was keeping air defence of Indian seaports. Flagship Mysore - a sleek cruiser constant vigil and was particularly powered by an 80,000 shaft horse searching for the Pakistani On the eve of the ceasefire power steam plant with state-of- submarine Ghazi, which was on September 23, 1965, a false the-art command and control known to have closed to within 12 statement broadcast by the Pakistan facilities. Mysore’s nine 6 inch guns, miles off Bombay harbour. On two Radio claimed that an Indian frigate, controlled by the latest fire control occasions,INS Kuthar, Commanded INS Brahmaputra had been sunk in equipment, could deliver two and by Commander DS Paintal, detected the Arabian Sea, by the Pakistani a half tonnes of explosives a minute an underwater sonar contact of a submarine Ghazi. After the war, the on the target. Mysore also had possible submarine and launched Indian Navy invited the world press eight 4 inch guns for surface and attacks with full salvos from her anti- and Naval Attachés of all countries anti-aircraft operations and twelve submarine mortars. The hide and accredited to India, to have a cup 40 mm Bofors AA guns. In fact her seek went on for five continuous of tea on board Brahmaputra at the punch and looks were legendary days and Ghazi was kept under Naval Dockyard, Bombay, which and she was popularly referred to as continuous pressure by the Indian was hosted by the Fleet Commander, the ‘Queen of the Orient’. Navy’s ships and aircraft. Because Rear Admiral BA Samson. of this relentless anti-submarine Flying the flag of Rear Admiral In his letter to the Navy, the then action, Ghazi, which was the only BA Samson, Mysore sailed for Defence Minister Mr YB Chavan submarine in the entire sub-continent offensive patrols on the West Coast, expressed the Government’s (the Indian Navy only acquired its accompanied by Brahmaputra, appreciation for the role played by first submarine in 1967), could not Beas, Betwa, Khukri, Kirpan, Kuthar, the Navy during the war as follows:- make any impact on the war. Talwar, Rana, Rajput, Ranjit and “I greatly appreciate the silent Naval Operations in the Ganga. The Fleet carried out but efficient role which the Navy Arabian Sea in Sep 1965 intensive patrols and sweeps in the played in the defence of the country. Arabian Sea, in conjunction with Seahawk aircraft of Indian The Navy protected islands which the Navy’s aircraft, throughout Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 300, were vital to our security, guarded our ports and the long Indian coast line. All merchant ships destined for our ports reached safely and our international trade was not permitted to be interfered with by the Pakistan Navy. I take this opportunity to emphasise again that the Navy has done and achieved all that the Government desired of it, within the bounds and compass allotted to it”. INS Mysore with INS Vikrant - Capt Sandeep Dewan

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 19 INDO-PAK WAR 1965 Air Force Awardees

he IAF was decorated with many honours and awards On September 9, the Squadron undertook the Tfor its stellar performance in the 1965 Indo-Pak War. most commendable task. A photo recce and strike The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Arjan Singh was mission was undertaken between Kasur and Raiwind honoured with the Padma Vibhushan. Along with Air by two aircraft. They attacked a train carrying tanks Marshal Arjan Singh, his deputies too were honoured and destroyed twenty of them. This was followed by with decorations. The AOC-in-C Western Air Command, an attack on a tank and heavy gun concentration at Rajaram and the Vice Chief of the Air Chawinda. Many of these reconnaissance and ground Staff, Air Vice Marshal PC Lal were decorated with the attack missions were led by Wg Cdr Goodman himself, Padma Bhushan. Significant were the five MVCs and 44 inspite of heavy air and ground opposition. He was a VrCs. A brief write up on the five recipients of MVC is source of inspiration to all ranks under his command. placed below. Under his command his squadron maintained a very BAR TO MAHAVIR CHAKRA high standard of serviceability which contributed to a number of successful strikes on enemy positions. Wg Sqn Ldr Jag Mohan Nath, MVC Cdr Goodman was awarded the Maha During the War, Sqn Ldr Jag Mohan Nath was Flight on September 10, 1965 for conspicuous gallantry, Commander of the strategic Photo Reconnaissance leadership and professional skill. Squadron (106 Squadron, AF) and flying the Canberra aircraft. He led his unit several times over hostile territory to Wg CdrPrem Pal Singh obtain vital information about the enemy. The unescorted Wg Cdr Prem Pal Singh was initially a Dakota pilot missions, which were in the nature of reconnaissance, but later converted onto the Canberra aircraft. During the entailed flying long distances over enemy territory and war, Wg Cdr Prem Pal Singh Commanded 5 Squadron well defended airfields and installations during day light. ‘The Tuskers’. The unit equipped with the Canberra Sqn LdrNath was fully aware of the risk he was running bomber, was assigned the triple task of tactical bombing, on each of these missions. Still, he chose to undertake close air support and armed patrolling. Under his able the risky missions himself. It was after great persuasion guidance, the Squadron carried out tactical bombing of that he allowed his colleagues to do some of the risky various targets in order to destroy the assignments. The information gathered by him during on ground. Led by Wg Cdr Prem Pal Singh himself, his missions proved of vital importance. The information Pakistani Army camps east of Gujrat and airfields at gathered by these missions enabled the Chaklala, Dab, Murid, Akwal, Risalwala, Wagowal, to attack vital enemy targets which in turn adversely Sargodha and Peshawar were successfully attacked. affected the enemy’s war effort. Sqn LdrNath was The Squadron carried out close air support awarded Bar to MahaVir Chakra on September 1, 1965 missions in Kasur, Khem Karan, Pasrur, Chawinda and for displaying courage, determination and devotion to Sialkot sectors. During the period of war, the Squadron duty. undertook 39 sorties of armed patrolling over Agra, MAHAVIR CHAKRA Palam, Ambala, Halwara and . Most of the Wg CdrWM Goodman operational missions over enemy territory were carried out during the hours of darkness. The targets were Wg Cdr Goodman, commanding 31 Squadron identified by moon light. These dangerous operational flying the Mystere fighter-bomber aircraft from Pathankot, sorties were undertaken in the face of heavy enemy anti- was entrusted with the task of destroying enemy tanks aircraft fire with exceptional courage and determination. and troop concentrations in the Chhamb sector on the Wg Cdr Prem Pal Singh was awarded the Maha Vir evening of September 1, 1965. Chakra for displaying a high sense of duty and gallantry The squadron immediately went into action and on September 10, 1965. blunted the enemy offensive by destroying tanks and armoured vehicles. Between September 2 and 8, the Sqn Ldr Padmanabha Gautam squadron undertook many reconnaissance and ground During the War, Sqn Ldr Padmanabha Gautam attack missions in the area. These included rocket was commanding the Jet Bomber Conversion Unit attacks on tank concentrations at Troti and Chhamb and (JBCU, Canberra bombers). At the outbreak of hostilities strafing of enemy positions at Jaurian. he was assigned many difficult and dangerous missions

20 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 BAR TO MAHAVIR MAHAVIR CHAKRA CHAKRA

Sqn Ldr Jag Mohan Wg Cdr WM Wg Cdr Prem Pal Sqn Ldr Padmanabha Sqn Ldr Ajjamada Nath, MVC Goodman Singh Gautam Boppayya Devayya into enemy territory at short notice. Between September a strike mission to Sargodha airfield in Pakistan. He was 6 and 21 he undertook six offensive, tactical and close the last aircraft of the mission as an escort. As he was support missions deep inside enemy territory. These were turning back, he was intercepted by an enemy F-104 undertaken notwithstanding the heavy ground fire and Starfighter aircraft. Though Devayya successfully evaded lurking PAF Sabre jets. the missile launched by the enemy aircraft, his attacker, These missions included reconnaissance into flying a faster aircraft caught up with him and fired his enemy territory, bombing of Akwal and Gujrat airfields, guns damaging Sqn Ldr Devayya’s Mystere. and strafing of enemy concentrations in Gujrat and Sqn Ldr Devayya displaying true fighting spirit Chawinda areas. For displaying exceptional courage, opted for air combat with the superior enemy aircraft determination and devotion to duty he was decorated and shot down the attacker. In the process, he made with the on September 22, 1965. In the supreme sacrifice as he crashed and was killed. For future, during the in 1971 war, this officer would go on showing conspicuous gallantry in putting the safety of to earn one more MVC. his colleagues before his own, and in electing to get Sqn Ldr Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya into an aerial combat with the F-104 Star fighter even Sqn Ldr Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya was an while his own aircraft was damaged, Sqn Ldr Devayya instructor with the Air Force Flying College at the outbreak displayed valour of the highest order. Sqn Ldr Devayya of the War. He was posted to ‘Tigers’ (1 Squadron) flying was awarded Maha Vir Chakra posthumously on the Mystere IV A fighter bomber. On September 7, 1965, January 26, 1988. Till date this is the only instance of a Sqn Ldr Devayya was a part of a formation of aircraft on posthumous MVC to the Indian Air Force. VIR CHAKRA Wg Cdr Bharat Singh Sqn Ldr AS Lamba Flt Lt Trilochan Singh Flt Lt AS Khullar Wg Cdr OP Taneja Sqn Ldr JW Greene Flt Lt DN Rathore Flt Lt VK Bhatia Wg Cdr S Bhattacharya Sqn Ldr SK Singh Flt Lt AT Cooke Flt Lt TC Chopra Wg Cdr PM Wilson Sqn Ldr BK Bishnoi Flt Lt H Mangat Flt Lt Vinod Patney Sqn Ldr Trevor Keelor Sqn Ldr Jasbeer Singh * Flt Lt PS Pingale Flt Lt GK Garud Sqn Ldr Sudharshan Handa Sqn Ldr SN Bansal Flt Lt V Kapila Flt Lt GR Railkar Sqn Ldr AS Sandhu Sqn Ldr C Mehta Flt Lt AK Mazumdar Flt Lt P Dastidar Sqn Ldr Denzil Keelor Sqn Ldr Tej Prakash Singh Flt Lt SN Deshpande Fg Offr AR Ghandhi Sqn Ldr AL Mousinho Sqn Ldr IJS Parmar Flt Lt CS Doraiswami Fg Offr VK Neb Sqn Ldr SK Dahar Sqn Ldr MS Jatar Flt Lt DMS Kahai Fg Offr SC Mamgain Sqn Ldr SS Malik Flt Lt VS Pathania Flt Lt CKK Menon Fg Offr U Barbara * Posthumous Source: IAF’s Campaign in the 1965 Indo-Pak War by College of Air Warfare Compiled by Wg Cdr SS Birdi

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 21 INDO-PAK WAR 1965 Role of NCC Cadets

CC cadets played an important role in various tasks Nduring the Indo-Pak war of 1965. Every NCC cadet rose to the occasion, they gladly relieved the Police, the and the Defence Services personnel to carry out more vital tasks in the defence of the country. Cadets were engaged in civil defence tasks and they assisted civil and military authorities in various sectors. According to the Extraordinary Gazette of India Published on September 9, 1965 in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 10 of the National Cadet Corps Act, 1948 (31 of 1948), the Central Government prescribed the following duties to be performed by the National Cadet Corps Officers (Senior, Junior and Girls Division) and Cadets (including girls) of the Senior

Cadets providing first aid

Girl Cadets working in telephone exchange during 1965 War

Guard of honour to the Prime Minister.

Cadets guard Akashwani Bhawan Cadets meeting the Defence Minister

22 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 Ashok Chakra III For NCC Cadet 1148012 Sargeant Pratap Singh The most outstanding instance of courage and devotion to duty displayed by the cadets was the fire fighting operations on September 13, 1965 at the Gurdaspur railway station following an air attack by four Pakistani planes on a goods train carrying inflammable material like ammunition, diesel and kerosene oil. A wagon caught fire and thick columns of smoke spread fast causing terror and confusion. Fifty cadets rushed to the railway station and brought the fire under control. They detached the wagons loaded with ammunition, thus preventing a major explosion and a fearful disaster. The cadets happily risked their Girl cadets take training at signal equipment lives and suffered burns in achieving this remarkable feat. In this action cadets were inspired and led by Cadet Sergeant Pratap Singh who manifested high qualities of leadership, courage and initiative. For his gallantry and selfless devotion to duty which saved the city of Gurdaspur from a terrible catastrophe, Sergeant Pratap Singh of the 10th Punjab Battalion NCC Gurdaspur was awarded the Ashok Chakra Class III by President of India Dr Radha Krishnan in 1966.

Evacuation by NCC cadets • Maintenance of essential services such as motor transport, pioneer and engineer services, water supply and power supply. • Traffic Control. • Manning of static signal installations. • Messenger service. • Duties in Hospital. • Administration and running of camps in case of movement of civil population. Cadet doing traffic control duties • Any other allied duties. Division who were of the age of seventeen years and These duties were performed by the cadets with above, namely:- full zeal and enthusiasm. The cadets also helped in • Passive Air Defence including rescue work, first aid, building bunds along the western borders. The cadets evacuation of casualties, fire-fighting and removal were guards at important installations like Akashwani, of debris. Telephone exchanges and Post offices. • Manning of Civil Defence posts including civil inputs: Lt Col Umang Kohli defence patrols and look outs. pix: Photo Division, MoD

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 23 Army and the IAF Play Saviours in Flood Ravaged Gujarat

hen the rain Gods decided to unleash their wrath Wover the state of Gujarat, little did they know that the men and women in the Olive Greens and Blues standing guard for their people, had nerves of steel and the astute resolve to thwart anything ominous hurled at the ones they stand to protect. No sooner, did the Meteorological Department sound warnings of imminent torrential downpours over Northern Gujarat on July 26, 2015, briefings were held and detailed plans charted out in consultation with the State Government. on how to go about the challenging task at hand. HQ South Western Air Command and HQ Golden Katar Division, based at Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad respectively, were agog with activity-collecting inputs, allocating resources and tasking units for flood relief and rescue missions under the watchful eyes of Air Marshal RK Dhir, On the morning of July 29, 2015, hard pressed AOC-in-C, South Western Air Command and Maj Gen with growing demand for life saving missions from the SK Bhanot, GOC, Golden Katar Division. civil administration, the IAF found a narrow window of As predicted, heavy rains lashed Gujarat on July opportunity to negotiate weather and be counted. Two 27, 2015. The most severely affected areas were the MI-17 V5s took off from Jamnagar again and braving districts of North Gujarat viz. Banaskantha, Patan and hostile weather conditions, carried out rescue missions in Kutchh. True to its reputation, the IAF swung into action villages of Banaskantha and Patan districts. In one such and two MI-17 V5 helicopters took-off from AF Station mission, an IAF MI-17 V5 flown by Wing Commander Jamnagar on the morning of July 28, 2015, these A Shukla winched seven people to safety. These people aircraft had to return due to extremely bad weather. were fighting for dear life perched precariously atop the Following it up shortly were two MI-17 V5s, from AF roof of a bus drowned due to the road underneath it Station Phalodi which met with the same fate and had to being washed off by gushing flood waters in Sankeshwar land back due impregnable weather conditions marked Tehsil of Patan district. Following that, the IAF flew nine by low level clouding and extremely poor visibility. The rescue missions on the same day with two MI-17 V5s heavy downpour continued through the day and night rescuing scores of people from inundated villages and flooding vast expanses of North Gujarat. bringing them to safety.

24 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 of Bhuj. A section of the crucial railway track between Jodhpur and Bhuj which is the primary feeder route to Kandla Port was washed away by gushing flood waters. No. 03 Engineer Regiment of the Indian Army’s Konark Corps, with men and material, worked tirelessly in coordination with Railway staff to restore the breach in the minimum possible time. The breach was in the section 15 kms south of Dhanera close to Ramsan where a goods train laden primarily with containers for shipment had fallen off the track before civil administration took note and trains were diverted. Four MI-17 V5 helicopters of the 119 Helicopter Unit of Indian Air Force known as the ‘Stallions’, with their Commanding Officer Wg Cdr N Dwivedi leading On the same morning, seven columns of Indian from the front, flew sorties from dawn to dusk every single Army from the Golden Katar Division were mobilised day, saving scores of lives in peril and providing succour with troops and equipment to the flood affected districts. where no relief could have been provided by road / rail. These included three Engineers Task Forces. The teams got down to their task immediately on arrival at their respective sites, working ceaselessly through the night. The operations by the Indian Army and the IAF continued till August 1, 2015 with the troops and the Air Warriors going about their task with unprecedented zeal and gusto in the most professional manner despite bad weather conditions. Phone calls from TV channels and News agencies in the state kept pouring in, seeking information and all forms of media was teeming with news, covering various rescue and relief operations at different sites in the flood affected villages and districts. Indian Army has rescued over 750 people stranded in inundated villages of Khapar, Khanpur, Bhorol, The unit operated ex-Ahmedabad from July 29 to August Dhima, Mahadevpura, Mitha and Vami in Tharad Tehsil 1, 2015, flying over 90 hours comprising a phenomenal of Banaskantha District. Medical assistance and food 160 sorties in just four days. The unit delivered over five provided to over 1700 people in the same area. Over lakh food packets, winched 13 stranded people fighting 200 people rescued and about 600 people administered for life amidst gushing flood waters and airlifted close to medical aid and supplied with food in Hodka village 150 people from marooned villages to safety. The excellent jointmanship towards a common cause, prompt response and an extremely professional execution of the entire rescue and relief effort won the Indian Army and the IAF accolades from one and all. Those rescued, called it ‘Divine Intervention’, media expressed gratitude airing programmes like ‘Salaam to Banta Hai’ coining the term ‘Operation Zindagi’ for the rescue efforts by the Army and the Air Force. But the men and women in the Olive Greens and Blues went about their task in the most professional manner ‘as another few busy days in office’. - Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 25 OTC, AMC CENTRE & COLLEGE, LUCKNOW Medical Officers Basic Course Concludes

ceremonial parade was held A at Officers Training College, Army Medical Corps Centre and College, Lucknow on conclusion of Medical Officers Basic Course-205 on July 8, 2015. The nine weeks foundation course imparts intensive training in combat medical support to young Armed Forces Medical and Dental officers in order to empower them for effectively performing their duties in peace and operational areas. 102 recently commissioned medical and dental officers of Armed Forces Medical Services, including 24 lady officers participated in an impressive ceremonial parade. The parade was marked by military precision and customary elegance. The parade was reviewed by Maj Gen Jagtar Singh, Commandant and Chief Instructor, Officers Training College. Surg Lt Satish Kumar, ICGS Puduchery was awarded Maj L Jyotin Singh, Ashok Chakra, Memorial Trophy for being ‘Best Officer in Academics’ and Capt Pooja Yadav, 168 MH was awarded Maj L Jyotin Field Events’. officers, the reviewing officer exalted Singh, Ashok Chakra, Memorial them to uphold the traditions Trophy for being the ‘Best Officer in While addressing the young of military doctors and dental surgeons by maintaining the highest order of professional competence. He also advised the officers to continuously upgrade and build upon the knowledge imparted at Officers Training College. Stressing upon the opportunities provided by the Armed Forces, he encouraged them to work hard to further their professional aspirations. He complimented all of them for their excellent turnout and the meticulous conduct of the parade. A large number of senior Armed Forces Medical Services officers witnessed the parade. - Gp Capt BB Pande

26 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 Lt Gen Velu Nair Visits AMC Centre & College

t Gen Velu Nair, Deputy Chief of LIntegrated Defence Staff (Medical) & Commandant visited AMC Centre & College, Lucknow on August 1, 2015. Lt Gen Nair paid tribute to the fallen soldiers at the AMC War Memorial. This was followed by reviewing of an impressive Guard of Honour at the AMC Stadium. The Guard of Honour was commanded by Maj Amit Kumar. Lt Gen Velu Nair addressed all ranks of AMC in the station. He emphasised the importance of high quality healthcare to the and missionary zeal. He recounted He expressed his confidence in the Armed Forces personnel and their the contribution of AMC in various Corps to meet all challenges in the dependants. He lauded all ranks military operations and in aid to future. for their dedication, commitment civil administration during disasters. - Gp Capt BB Pande AOC-in-C Visits Air Force Station Bareilly

ir Marshal Kulwant Singh Gill, Air Officer Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Bareilly and ACommanding-in-Chief, Central Air Command Mrs Vatsala Mishra, President, Air Force Wives Welfare arrived at Air Force Station Bareilly on July 15, 2015 for Association (Local) received the Air Marshal and Mrs a two day annual inspection visit. He was accompanied Ranjeet Gill at the Trishul Air Base. The Air Marshal by Mrs Ranjeet Gill, President, Air Force Wives Welfare reviewed a grand Ceremonial Parade commanded by Association (Regional). Air Cmde Jeetendra Mishra, the Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Bareilly after being introduced to the key personnel of the base. During his two day visit, Air Marshal KS Gill inspected various units and sections and interacted with the air warriors of Air Force Station Bareilly. He reviewed the operational, technical and administrative preparedness of the Air Base. The mechanical transport of the base was also displayed during the inspection. He also reviewed the operational environment by flying in SU-30 MK I aircraft along with the Commanding Officer of the Squadron. On July 16, 2015 the Air Marshal addressed a Hollow Square gathering of all the personnel of the station. - Gp Capt BB Pande

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 27 Railway Services between Jodhpur - Bhuj

n emergency requisition by DRM Jodhpur for Orestoration of the railway line which happens to be a lifeline for population residing in the remote areas, the Army authorities of the Konark Corps convened an emergency meeting along with railway engineers. Consequently two dozers were mobilised swiftly from Jodhpur and Udaipur military stations and despite inclement weather and restricted traffic ability reached the affected site on July 31. On reaching Dhanera the Konark engineers carried out a quick appreciation of situation leading to the soil erosion caused by incessant rains and floods rendering the railway service connecting Jodhpur to Bhuj with traffic of 12 passenger and 45 goods dysfunctional. Appreciating that the railway engineer equipment could not approach the affected Army Engineers from Desert Corps facilitate restoration of railway services between Jodhpur - Bhuj site as the area had become unsuitable for movement of railway equipment, the Army engineers set about the to plug the breach caused by the incessant rains and enormous task of clearing a pathway to facilitate the flood. The Konark Corps along with railway engineers move of railway engineers to carry out the restoration displayed steadfast commitment to restore the breach work along with Army engineers at Ramsan. Once the and ensured that railway connectivity to the mainland is pathway had been created the primary restoration work restored in the fastest possible time frame. at Ramsan involved moving huge quantity of earth - Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman BRO Launches Bridge on Rajouri-Poonch Highway

eavy rainfall on July 12, 2015 in disaster. Heavy bridging stores were supervision of Commander, 31 HRajouri resulted in 60 feet road rushed to the bridge site immediately Task Force. Working throughout the formation being washed off on the under the supervision of Chief day and late into the night the BRO National Highway between Rajouri Engineer Project Sampark. Braving men completed the construction of and Poonch. Reacting immediately heavy rains and ongoing landslides 80 feet Double Single Reinforced in the sector the manpower of BRO to a critical and worsening situation Bailey Bridge on July 14, 2015. 31 Task Force of Project Sampark commenced construction of the Assistance in the form of supervisory swung into action within hours of bridge on July 13, 2015 under the staff for construction was given by the Army Engineers thus displaying good synergy between the two organisations. The Bridge construction was completed in 36 Hrs under heavy rains with roads in the sector blocked due to landslides. Besides restoring the line of communication to Poonch, this bridge construction has facilitated the pilgrimage to the Buddha Amarnath shrine. - Lt Col Manish Mehta

28 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 INS Teg to Continue Surveillance Operations

NS Teg, a stealth frigate of the The Indian Navy, while shouldering its During the deployment, the ship IIndian Navy was on a two-month security responsibilities, is committed undertook joint patrolling and long deployment in the South Indian to these objectives and has been surveillance operations with the Ocean with an aim to provide contributing in capacity building and Mauritian National Coast Guard surveillance support in the region. capability enhancement of friendly ships. The joint patrolling was aimed This is in keeping with India’s national foreign countries as and when at preventing piracy and illegal objective of ensuring a secure and fishing and would help reinforce requested by them. stable regional environment to allow maritime security in the Exclusive unhindered economic and social INS Teg was on a scheduled Economic Zone (EEZ) of Mauritius. development, not just in India, but also visit to Port Louis, Mauritius from In addition, INS Teg also assisted in the entire Indian Ocean Region. July 13-17 and July 23-26, 2015. local authorities in providing assistance in terms of logistics and medical support to the outer islands of Agalega and St Brandon. The Indian Navy has been deploying ships to Mauritius bi- annually since 2009 to assist in patrolling the vast EEZ of the country. - Capt DK Sharma INS Astravahini Decommissioned

very “proud and sombre” 1981 for Defence Research and experimental torpedoes prior their Amoment for Eastern Naval Development Activities. The Ship induction into the Navy. In her long Command as INS Astravahini, was commissioned on November service the ship has considerably an indigenously built Torpedo 5, 1984 at Visakhapatnam and enhanced the ‘Make in India’ efforts Launch and Recovery Vessel was decommissioned after serving the of NSTL in indigenous torpedo decommissioned by Commodore KA nation for almost 31 years. The Bopanna, Naval Officer-in-Charge only one of its class, the ship was induction. The ship was commanded (APD) in a ceremony held at the Ship extensively used by NSTL as a test by Lt Rohan Kulkarni. Building Centre (V) at sunset on July platform to launch and recover - Cdr CG Raju 16, 2015. The ceremony commenced with an impressive guard of honour and culminated in hauling down of Naval Ensign for the last time at sunset. Commodore KA Bopanna, NOIC (APD), while addressing the crew and esteemed guests present during the ceremony, highlighted the contribution made by the vessel in the trials of indigenous torpedoes developed by NSTL. An auxiliary vessel of the TLRV (torpedo launching and recovery) class, the ship was ordered to Commanding Officer presenting a memento to the Chief Guest Commodore KA Bopanna be built by NSTL in October NOICAPD August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 29 Indian Army Raises Selection Centre

o mark the occasion of the Raising of Selection Centre TNorth (SCN), the army held a simple, yet impressive formal ceremony on July 1, 2015 at Kapurthala Military Station. The ceremony was presided over by Lt Gen RN Nair, Director General Recruiting. Lt Gen NPS Hira, General Officer Commanding, Vajra Corps also attended the Raising Day ceremony. Selection Centre North (SCN) with two Service Selection Boards has been raised for the selection of candidates to become officers in the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. The Raising Day function was attended by senior officers representing Headquarters , Vajra Corps Headquarters Jalandhar, Military Stations Amritsar and Kapurthala. Army Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers and Other Ranks who form the flag on the occasion and later released the motto of first nucleus posted to the Selection Centre North (SCN) Selection Centre North (SCN) as “Nishpaksh Nihswarth also attended the Raising Day function. Nissandeh” which in the English language means “to Lt Gen RN Nair, Director General Recruiting be impartial, without any personal motives and with firm inaugurated the function by cutting of ribbon. The resolute”. General Officer unfurled the Army Headquarters - Naresh Vig EAC Conducts Annual Declamation Contest

keenly contested Annual Singh of AF Stn Bagdogra in Hindi of 25 participants from far off places AAFWWA (Air Force Wives Declamation and Miss Moupiya of North East regions including Welfare Association) Declamation Saha daughter of Sgt Pijush Kanti Salua, Khumbhigram, Dinjan etc. Competition was held on July Saha of AF Stn Kalaikunda in English Representing 14 different Air Force 27 at Headquarters Eastern Air Declamation will now represent Schools and KVs under EAC. The Command, Upper Shillong for the EAC in the AFWWA Central contest was inaugurated by lighting the wards of Air Force personnel Declamation Contest to be held in of the traditional ‘Diya’ by the Chief studying from classes IX to XII. New Delhi to commemorate 83rd Guest, Mrs Anjna Deo, President The winner of the contest Master Anniversary of the Indian Air Force. AFWWA (Regional). The event was Aman Preet Singh son of Sgt Avtar A keenly fought contest saw a total complemented by AFWWA Song by Sanginis and an impressive cultural show presented by students of Kendriya Vidyalaya Upper Shillong. A panel of three eminent judges comprising Dr KK Jhunjhunwala Chief Editor Eastern Panorma, Dr DK Chaubey HOD Hindi NEHU and Prof Subba HOD English St. Antony College selected the winners and runners up in English and Hindi Mrs Anjna Deo President AFWWA Regional Eastern Air Command with the winners and categories. participants of declamation contest held at EAC Upper Shillong on July 27, 2015 - Gp Capt Amit Mahajan

30 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 Tree Plantation Drive at Jalandhar

rees are the most precious asset Ton this planet. They synergise life and are equally important to all the habitat of the earth. However, this asset is diminishing rapidly due to increasing population which necessitates stoppage of tree cutting and plantation of new ones. All human beings are required to be conscious of this fact and must contribute by planting trees. Indian Army has always been taking initiative in this field and has contributed immensely in plantation of trees at various places. 23 Field Ammunition Depot has undertaken a big initiative in plantation of trees in Suranassi area of Jalandhar and able to motivate their families and plantation drive was initiated by Col has started a big tree plantation children to join their hands in this Sandeep Sharma and Combatants, drive on July 17, 2015 in which all noble cause. Families, children Ladies and Children’s have Officers and troops planted 5,000 and the combatants planted shady, participated in the campaign. trees. All soldiers have also been ornamental and fruit trees. The tree - Naresh Vig NCC SCUBA Diving Camp Concludes

he closing ceremony of SCUBA Command at Mumbai this morning. (i.e. Mumbai ‘A’ and ‘B’, Pune, T(Self Contained Underwater The three week-long camp started off Amravati, Kolhapur, Nagpur and Breathing Apparatus) Diving Camp with 50 participants on July 5, 2015 Aurangabad). Further screening of for Cadets of Nation Cadet Corps with volunteer cadets from Navy, the cadets was conducted and 30 was conducted at Command Army and Air Wing Cadets from all (including 10 girl cadets) qualified Swimming Pool of Western Naval the seven Groups of Maharashtra for the second phase from 12 – 25 July 2015. As a part of personality and skill building the camp provided rigorous training to the cadets. Important essential skills in swimming, swimming with fins, snorkeling, diving and 5m jump and life skills such as physical fitness, saving a drowning person, survival at sea, flood relief operations, team work and first aid. SCUBA Diving Camp has caught the fancy and imagination of the NCC Cadets of the state in a big way and participation in the camp is well All participants of the SCUBA (Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) Diving sought after. Camp for Cadets of Nation Cadet Corps in a group photographs in water - Cdr Rahul Sinha

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 31 Appointments

Lt Gen MMS Rai took over the charged of Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) from Lt Gen Philip Campose on August 1, 2015. He was the Eastern Army Commander prior to taking over as VCOAS. Lt Gen MMS Rai was commissioned into the Corps of Engineers (Bombay Sappers) on December 15, 1976, and joined an Armoured Engineer Regiment. He is a third generation officer in the Indian Army. The General Officer has held varied staff and instructional appointments and has attended various prestigious Army courses including the Defence Services Course at Wellington and Higher Command Course at Mhow.

Lt Gen Balwant Singh Negi has taken over as the appointment of the Commandant, Indian , Dehradun on August 3, 2015. Gen BS Negi is an alumni of prestigious Rashtriya Indian Military College, National Defence Academy and . He got commissioned into 15 Battalion of Assam Regiment in December 1978. In an illustrious career spanning a period of more than 37 years, the Officer has held various staff instructional and command appointment. He was an Instructor in IMA, Infantry School, Mhow and Staff College, Wellington. The General Officer has served in OP ‘MEGHDOOT’ and OP ‘RAKSHAK’ and was awarded YSM in 1998 and VSM Bar in 2007 and 2011. The Officer has excelled in various professional courses during his service and has to his credit various Academics achievements. Gen Negi has been awarded Ph.D. degree by Madras University for his research work on the topic “China’s Modernisation”.

Lt Gen Praveen Bakshi took over as the 25th General Officer Commanding in Chief of the in Kolkata, on August 1, 2015. He succeeds Lt Gen MMS Rai, who relinquished the appointment on July 31 on being elevated as the Vice Chief of Army Staff in the Army Headquarters in New Delhi. Lt Gen Praveen Bakshi is an alumnus of National Defence Academy and was commissioned into Skinner’s Horse. He has rich operational and command experience. Important appointments held by him include command of an Armoured Brigade in the Western Sector, a Division in the desert sector and a Corps in the plains sect of Punjab & J&K. Prior to the appointment as Eastern Army Commander, he was Chief of Staff of at Udhampur. On taking over as the Eastern Army Commander, Lt Gen Praveen Bakshi paid homage at the Vijay Smarak at Fort William by laying a wreath.

Lt Gen PM Hariz, took over command of the Army on August 1, 2015. He is an alumnus of National Defence Academy, Khadakvasla and was commissioned on June 10, 1978 into Mechanised Infantry Battalion 16 MAHAR (PARA), which on raising of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment was re-designated as 12 Mechanised Infantry. The General Officer is a graduate of the prestigious Staff College at Camberley, UK and has attended Higher Command Course at Mhow and National Defence College, New Delhi. He has rich operational and command experience. Important appointments held by him include commanding a Mechanised Infantry (Reconnaissance and Surveillance) Battalion on the Western borders, an Infantry Brigade where he was involved in the transformation of the Brigade as an Amphibious Brigade, a Sub Area and a RAPID Division. The General officer has also served as Additional Directorate General of Mechanised Forces and has been a Military Observer in UN (Mission) at Angola.

32 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015 Maj Gen (Mrs) Sushila Shahi assumed the appointment of Additional Director General Military Nursing Service on August 1, 2015. The General Officer was commissioned on December 31, 1977 and is an alumnus of School of Nursing, MH Secunderabad. She pursued her midwifery training from Military Hospital Dehradun in August 1978 and completed her Operation Theatre training from Command Hospital (SC) Pune in the year 1984. She has been an Operation Theatre In-charge of distinct repute for almost two decades. She has held many administrative appointments at IHQ of MoD (Army). Prior to taking over the appointment of Addl DGMNS, she was Principal Matron of prestigious Hospital of Armed Forces, Army Hospital (R&R). She has been awarded COAS commendation in 1999, GOC-in-C commendation twice in 2007 and 2010 for her distinguished and illustrious services and is the proud recipient of the prestigious Florence Nightingale award in May 2015 by the President of India.

Inspector General K Natarajan took over as the 12th Commander of the Coast Guard Region (West) on July 27, 2015. Inspector General K Natarajan joined the on January 18, 1984 and holds Master’s Degree in Defence & Strategic studies from Madras University. The Flag Officer has held various important Command and Staff appointments, both afloat and ashore during his 31 years of illustrious career. He has commanded all four major classes of Indian Coast Guard ships with distinction, viz., Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel Sangram, Offshore Patrol Vessel Veera, Fast Patrol Vessel Kanaklata Barua and Inshore Patrol Vessel ChandBibi. The Officer’s important Command appointments ashore include the Commander Coast Guard District-5 (Tamil Nadu) and Commanding Officer ICGS Mandapam. The other key staff assignments include Principal Director (Policy & Plans), Chairman Coast Guard Service Selection Board (North), etc. Inspector General K Natarajan is a recipient of President Tatrakshak Medal (Distinguished Service) in 2011, Tatrakshak Medal (Meritorious) in 1996.

Inspector General Kuldip Singh Sheoran took over command of Coast Guard Region (A&N) as the 22nd Commander at Port Blair on July 25, 2015. IG Sheoran joined Indian Coast Guard in 1984, and has held various key Operational and Staff appointments, both, afloat and ashore during his 30 years of illustrious career. The Flag Officer has commanded all four major classes of Coast Guard Ships with distinction, viz.,Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel Sankalp, Offshore Patrol Vessel Varad, Fast Patrol Vessel Kamla Devi, Inshore Fast Patrol Vessel Tarabai. The Officer’s important command appointments ashore include the Commanding Officer of Indian Coast Guard Station Delhi and Commanding Officer of Indian Coast Guard Tuticorin. The other key staff assignments of the IG include Principal Director (Logistics) at Coast Guard Headquarters, New Delhi, Chief of Staff of Coast Guard Region (West) at Mumbai and Coast Guard Region (A&N) at Port Blair. IG Sheoran is decorated with President Tatrakshak Medal and Tatrakshak Medal.

DIG Raj Mani Sharma the Commander Coast Guard Region (North-West) took over the reins of the region on July 22, 2015 vice IG KS Sheoran. The Officer joined the Indian Coast Guard in 1980 and has served in various sea and shore appointments with distinction. The Flag officer has completed National security course from Korean National Defence University and a Course on CITIES (Convention on International trade in endangered species) under auspices of UN. The Flag Officer is recipient of prestigious ”Tatrakshak Medal” for meritorious service in Indian Coast Guard and has also been commended by the Director General, Indian Coast Guard for various achievements.

- Col Rohan Anand, Gp Capt BB Pande, Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman and Col Omana Bharathan

August 16-31, 2015 Sainik Samachar 33 PHOTOCALL National Integration Tour: Students of Srinagar School of Management, Parihaspora, J&K interacting with Gen Dalbir Singh, the Chief of Army Staff as part of ‘The National Integration Tour’, in New Delhi on August 7, 2015. This Technology Awareness Tour to Delhi, Indore & Mhow is being undertaken by 2 Rashtriya Rifles from August 5 to August 17,2015. It is aimed to give an exposure to the participants on technical courses and job opportunities available outside the State of J&K.

Kargil Diwas Ceremony: The 16th Kargil Diwas was observed on July 26, 2015 with great pride during a solemn ceremony organised at the National War Memorial, Pune. A wreath was laid at the Memorial, by Lt Gen Ashok Singh, GOC-in-C on behalf of all ranks of Southern Command to pay a tribute to those who made the supreme sacrifice during the Kargil conflict. Subsequently, citizens of Pune also paid their tribute to the martyrs by lighting candles at the Memorial on the same day.

Visit by Students from J&K: A team of 23 girl students from Bhadarwah district in J&K visited Delhi, Agra and Ajmer from August 1 to August 7, 2015. During the visit the students got an opportunity to interact with President AWWA in Delhi on August 3, 2015. During her interaction with students President AWWA was happy to know that the students are open to pursue various fields and keen to join various colleges across the country. The tour was an initiative of 4 RR (Bihar).

Motor Cycle Expedition on National Integration: As part of Sadbhavna initiative to promote and foster the spirit of peace and unity between the youth of far flung areas of Poonch region and North Kashmir valley, Indian Army organised a Motorcycle Expedition ‘Sair-E- Milaap’. The members of the Expedition interacted with the Chinar Corps Commander, Lt Gen Subrata Saha in a simple ceremony held at Badami Bagh Cantt on August 3, 2015.

Source: Gp Capt BB Pande, Col Rohan Anand, Mahesh Iyengar and Col NN Joshi OBITUARY We, the DPR family are deeply shocked at the sad and untimely demise of Mr Santosh Kumar of Broadcasting Section on August 9, 2015 in a tragic car accident in Delhi. A man of amiable nature with a zest for life, his sudden death at the age of 33 has caused immense grief to everybody in the organisation. We pray to the Almighty to give strength to his family and dear ones in this hour of bereavement. May his soul rest in peace.

34 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2015