In This Issue Since 1909 India-FranceBIRTH ANNIVERSARY sign CELEBRATIONS deal for 36 Rafale Fighter Jets 4
(Initially published as FAUJI AKHBAR) Vol. 63 q No 19 9 - 23 Asvin, 1938 (Saka) 1-15 October 2016
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 Defence Minister Hasibur Rahman President Reviews 6 8 Senior Editor Editor Passing Out Parade Launches… Ruby T Sharma Ehsan Khusro Coordination Business Manager Sekhar Babu Madduri Dharam Pal Goswami Our Correspondents DELHI: Wg Cdr Anupam Banerjee; Dhananjay Mohanty; Capt DK Sharma; Manoj Tuli; Nampibou Marinmai; Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva; Col Rohan Anand; Ved Pal; Photo Editor: K Ramesh; ALLAHABAD: Gp Capt BB Pande; BENGALURU: Shivaram Pailoor; CHANDIGARH: Pradip Dasgupta; CHENNAI: T Shanmugam; GANDHINAGAR: Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman; GUWAHATI: Lt Col Suneet Newton; IMPHAL: Lt Col Ajay Kumar Sharma; JALANDHAR: ...... ; JAMMU: Lt Col Manish Mehta; JODHPUR: Lt Col Manish Ojha; KOCHI: Cdr Sridhar E Warrier ; 5 Defence Minister and Army… KOHIMA: Col Chiranjeet Konwer; KOLKATA: Wg Cdr SS Birdi; Dipannita Dhar; 10 Platinum Jubilee Celebrations Successful Flight Tests LUCKNOW: Ms Gargi Malik Sinha; MUMBAI: Cdr Rahul Sinha; Narendra Vispute; of LRSAM 12 NAGPUR: Wg Cdr Samir S Gangakhedkar; PALAM: Gp Capt SK Mehta; PUNE: 16 Mesmerises the Youth of Gujarat Mahesh Iyengar; SECUNDERABAD: Suresh Kumar G; SHILLONG: Gp Capt 18 Air Force Association… Amit Mahajan; Col NN Joshi; Lt Col Sombith Ghosh; SRINAGAR: TEZPUR: 20 Indo-US Joint Military Exercise THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Suresh Shreedharan; UDHAMPUR: Col SD Goswami; VISAKHAPATNAM: Cdr CG Raju. 27 Leh's Hall of Fame Museum… 30 RCI is one of the Global Leader… Published by: Nitin D Wakankar Offg Addl DG (Media & Communication) 32 Commissioning of Off Shore… Directorate of Public Relations, South Block, 34 Chakravyuh Ministry of Defence, New Delhi-110011 Regulars Follow us on: 35 Armed Forces Panorama www.facebook.com/DefenceMinIndia
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http://sainiksamachar.nic.in On front cover: Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar welcoming his French counterpart Mr. Jean-Yves Le Drian in South Block before the start of the Indo- French delegation level talks on September 23, 2016. India-France sign deal for 36 Rafale Fighter Jets
ndia and France signed the Inter- IGovernmental Agreement (IGA) to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of nearly 7.87 billion euros (about Rs.59,000 cr). Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar and his French counterpart Mr Jean-Yves Le Drian signed the agreement at a ceremony in New Delhi. The purchase of state-of-the- art Rafale jet caters to Indian Air Force’s specific needs and will have Indo-French defence delegation level talks in progress in South Block, New Delhi on a clear edge in aerial combat over September 23, 2016. Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar and his French counterpart Pakistan’s F-16 jets. The aircraft will Mr Jean-Yves Le Drian are also seen
Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar signing the Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar exchanging the Rafale intergovernmental agreement on Rafale with his French counterpart contract agreement with his French counterpart Mr Jean-Yves Le Mr Jean-Yves Le Drian in South Block Drian in South Block after signing of the documents come equipped with ‘beyond visual Parrikar said, “Rafale is a potent capability of the IAF”. range’ air-to-air missiles Meteor, aircraft for deep strike capabilities. French Defence Minister Le It can move at high altitudes and with a range of nearly 150 km. Drian added, “The Rafale is really has potential weapons with the most the best fighter jet in the world. It is Defence Minister Mr Manohar modern technology. It will add to the an omnirole aircraft capable of all kinds of missions.” The first ready-to-fly Rafales are expected to arrive by 2019 and India is set to have all 36 within six years. The 36 Rafale procurement supports the ‘Make in India’ initiative of the Government of India through offsets having huge potential to generate direct and indirect employment opportunities in India. French Defence Minister Mr Jean-Yves Le Drian paying homage to the martyrs at Amar - Hasibur Rahman Jawan Jyoti, India Gate on September 23, 2016 pix: GD Mehra and Vijay Kumar
4 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 Defence Minister and Army Chief visit Kashmir
n the day of a terror attack in OUri when four terrorists were killed and 17 soldiers martyred, the Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar and Army Chief General Dalbir Singh visited Kashmir to take stock of the ongoing operations and review the overall security situation in Kashmir. They were briefed by the Northern Army and Chinar Corps Commanders Lt Gen DS Hooda and Lt Gen Satish Dua respectively at Srinagar on the Uri attack and the operation launched to neutralise the terrorists. While three of the four heavily armed terrorists were eliminated within the initial fifteen minutes of establishing contact, the fourth was neutralized later and four The Defence Minister was a number of infiltration attempts AK-47 rifles and equal number of briefed about the security grid that the Army has foiled recently. UBGLs along with other war like along the Line of Control (LoC) and Three such attempts were foiled in stores were recovered from them. the hinterland also covering the Kupwara Sector when four terrorists Unfortunately, 17 soldiers attained deployment of the additional forces, were killed and another group of martyrdom in the operation. 13 recently inducted into the Valley. four terrorists was eliminated in of these soldiers died as they were The need for heightened vigil both Poonch. trapped in the tents and shelters that on the LoC and hinterland and to On being briefed about the caught fire due to the explosives remain prepared for any eventuality internal security situation in the used by the terrorists. was stressed upon. There have been hinterland, the Army Chief reiterated the importance of complete synergy amongst all security, intelligence and other government agencies to ensure calm and prevent the terrorists and other inimical forces from moving with impunity and intimidating the populace. The Army Chief also visited Uri to get a first hand account where he was briefed on the latest situation by the Commanders on ground. The Defence Minister and Army Chief later met the casualties at the Army Base Hospital in BB Cantonment. Saluting the martyrs, they expressed their deep grief and condolences over the loss and wished speedy recovery to the injured. - Col Rohan Anand
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 5 OTA, Chennai President Reviews Passing Out Parade
he Passing out Parade of the was commanded by Academy TOfficers Training Academy was Under Officer (AUO) Varun Singh held at Chennai on September 10, Chauhan. It is the third time in 53 2016. A total of 269 Officer Cadets year old history of OTA, that the which included 217 Gentleman President is reviewing the Parade. Cadets, 32 Lady Cadets, 19 The Officer Cadets marched out Gentleman Cadets and one with precision from Parameshwaran Lady Cadet from friendly Foreign Drill Square to the tune of ‘Auld Countries, were commissioned as Lang Syne’, taking the ‘Final Step,’ Officers following the completion of thus symbolising the end of their vigorous training at the Academy. training, which infact is the ‘First The President and Supreme Step’ towards a demanding and Commander of the Armed Forces stimulating career as the custodians Mr Pranab Mukherjee reviewed of the nation’s integrity and honour. the spectacular parade which The proud parents of the Officer The President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Mr Pranab Mukherjee at the Pipping Ceremony during the Passing Out Parade held at Officers Training Academy in Chennai Cadets, dignitaries and members of the diplomatic fraternity witnessed the mesmerising parade. Addressing the Parade, the Reviewing Officer congratulated Commandant Lieutenant General Bobby Mathews and his faculty for having toiled hard to turn out such a smart and capable set of young Military leaders. The President urged the young officers to work hard for the safety and honour of the country. During the Parade, the Reviewing Officer presented various awards. The most coveted “Sword of Honour” for Best All Round Gentlemen/Lady Cadet of the Passing out Course was presented to AUO Varun Singh Chauhan. The Gold Medal for standing first in Order of Merit was awarded to Battalion under Officer (BUO) Alla Shridhar. The Silver Medal for standing second in Overall Order of Merit was awarded to Academy Cadet Adjutant (ACA) Divya Tyagi and the Bronze Medal for standing The President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Mr Pranab Mukherjee arrived at Parameswaran parade ground in traditional way to review the Passing out Parade held at third in Overall Order of Merit was Officers Training Academy in Chennai awarded to BUO Rakesh TR. The
6 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 Smartly turned Cadets march past at the Passing Out Parade held at Officers Training Academy in Chennai The President Mr Pranab Mukherjee addressing the gathering
The President and Supreme Commander The President is taking salute from the The President Mr Pranab Mukherjee of the Armed Forces Mr Pranab Mukherjee Passing out Parade Cadets awarded the banner for Champion greeted the family members of the cadets Company to Mektila Company banner for Champion Company was The event was followed by an oath were also awarded a Post Graduate awarded to Mektila Comapany. taking ceremony and National Diploma in Defence Management Anthem. Apart from the President’s and Strategic Studies by the Madras The Officer Cadets were piped Commission to lead the world’s as officers, by their parents in front second largest Army, each of the University. of the Parameshwaran Drill Square. newly commissioned Lieutenants - T Shanmugam
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 7 Defence Minister Launches Upgraded Website of Department of Defence Production
s part of the Prime Minister’s A‘Digital India’ programme, Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar launched the re-designed website of Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence in New Delhi on September 15, 2016. The website is now fully compliant to the Guidelines for Indian Government Websites (GIGW). The website has been re- designed using the Content Management Framework (CMF) developed by National Informatics Centre (NIC). It is now more user centric, user friendly, universally Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar addressing the august gathering at the launching of accessible and less vulnerable to re-designed website of Department of Defence Production. Secretary, Department of Defence cyber-attacks. Web pages have Production Mr AK Gupta is also seen.
Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar launching the re-designed website of Department of Defence Production by pressing the digital button. Also seen in the picture are Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre and Secretary, Department of Defence Production Mr AK Gupta.
8 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar launching the upgraded website of the Department of Defence Production. Also seen in the picture is Secretary, Department of Defence Production Mr AK Gupta. been made responsive and easy The revamped website has to access through different devices given comprehensive link to i.e. desktop, tablet PCs and mobile websites maintained by various phones with varying screen sizes. wings and organisations under The website has also been optimized the Department such as ‘Make in for viewing by different browsers and India’ defence portal, Ordnance operating systems. Factory Board, DGQA, Directorate The website of DDP provides of Standardisation, Defence Offset news updates, policies, procedures, Management Wing and websites publications, directory of officials of nine Defence Public Sector and media contents such as Undertakings. Related links of other e-book, photo-gallery etc. A link for Ministries/Departments like Finance, online service of the Department – Commerce, Corporate Affairs, DIPP, ‘Application for NoC for Export of DPE, MSME, etc have also been Military Stores’ has been provided. provided. One of the salient features of Thus the website provides the website is that it is interactive complete information at one place and suggestions and clarifications to all stakeholders i.e. public, related to defence production can be vendors, exporters, users (Armed given or sought through the online Forces), producers (public and feedback form. Another feature of the private), quality assurance agencies, website is its accessibility by visually industry associations, other Central impaired persons and persons with Ministries and State Governments, motor disabilities, who can access about the various initiatives which the web content using screen readers DDP has taken and is taking to and other assistive technologies promote manufacturing and export through accessibility links and in the defence sector under the icons conveniently placed on the ‘Make in India’ initiative. standardized header and footer. - Nitin Wakankar
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 9 8 Mechanised Infantry (7 Punjab Ichhogil Warriors) Platinum Jubilee Celebrations
Mechanised Infantry (7 PUNJAB) 8 celebrated its 75th year of raising (Platinum Jubilee) at Khasa, Amritsar with gaiety. The battalion was raised on May 5, 1941 and has participated in ‘Burma Campaign’ of Second World War and all major operations post Independence. It is decorated with four Battle Honours to include North Arakan-1944, Buthidaung-1944, Ngyake Dauk Pass -1944, Dograi (Ichhogil) – 1965 and three Theatre Honours including Burma, Punjab and East Pakistan. To commemorate the occasion, a large number of events were organised at Khasa, Amritsar which were attended by many senior dignitaries including Serving and Veteran 75 Ex Officers to include 14 Ex Commanding Officers, 182 Junior Commissioned Officers to include 18 Ex Subedar Majors, 206 Other Ranks and 14 Veer Naris. The sister of martyr Lt Gurcharanjit Singh, brother of martyr Lt KS Ahluwalia and the brother of martyr Lt JS Khokhar especially graced the occasion. The Ceremonial Parade
10 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 organised during the occasion was reviewed by Lieutenant General Jagbir Singh, General Officer Commanding, Dakshin Bharat Area. The General addressed the parade wherein he greeted all present, he then complimented the troops for their good turnout and exceptional drill standards. The General officer also added that the battalion has a rich history and reputation in the Indian Army which has only grown with time. After the Ceremonial Parade, a motor cycle display by 'Dare Devils’ team from the Corps of Signal led by Captain Manpreet Singh showcased daring motorcycle stunts which left the audience spellbound and mesmerized. A band display was also organised as part of the event. Later in the day, a Special Sainik Samellan was held during which the First Day Cover was also released. A host of other social events were also organised during this momentous occasion. - Lt Col Manish Mehta
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 11 Successful Flight Tests of LRSAM
ong Range Surface to Air Missile LSystem (LRSAM) for Indian Navy was successfully flight tested against Pilotless Target Aircraft (PTA) on September 20, 2016 at 10:10 hrs and again at 14:25 hrs from Interim Test Range (ITR) at Balasore, Odisha. The LRSAM has been developed through a joint venture between DRDO India and IAI of Israel. The naval version of the SAM system, this time was tested from land and the earlier was flight tested from Naval Ships, at ITR. Both missiles directly hit their respective targets at Dr G Satheesh Reddy, SA to RM and Director General, Missiles and Strategic Systems along different ranges and altitudes. The with LRSAM team members trajectory of the flight of missiles was contributed towards the development Team by Mr Patrick D’Silva, Project throughout tracked and monitored of Missile systems. Both Israel and Director, Mr MSR Prasad, Director by the radars and electro-optical Indian scientists and technicians DRDL and Dr BK Das, Director ITR. systems installed at ITR. have been involved in the launch Dr G Satheesh Reddy, DG (MSS) & Many industries viz. BDL, campaign. The Israel team was led MIDHANI, TATA, GODREJ, SEC, by Mr Boyes Levy, Vice President, SA to RM witnessed the launches. PEL, ADITYA and others have IAI of Israel, whereas the Indian - Hasibur Rahman with K Ramesh
12 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 MAHAR Regiment Expedition to Mount Kamet
t Gen Bipin Rawat, the Vice Chief Lof Army Staff (VCOAS) flagged in the MAHAR Regiment Mount Kamet Expedition 2016 in a ceremony at the South Block, Army Headquarters, New Delhi on September 19, 2016. The COAS congratulated the team for display of grit and perseverance in successfully summiting India’s third highest peak. The Mount Kamet expedition led by Colonel Amit Bisht, Commanding Officer 1 MAHAR, in the Garhwal Himalayas was launched to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee of The MAHAR Regiment, which has completed 75 years in the service of considered as risky due to heavy but also the additional challenge of the Nation. rains and landslides. Consequently, rough weather and heavy snowfall. The expedition team had been The MAHAR Regiment expedition The first team was led by the flagged off by the Army Commander, team successfully summited Mount team leader, Colonel Amit Bisht Central Command, Lt Gen B S Negi, Kamet, India’s highest peak open to along with two Junior Commissioned from Lucknow on August 1, 2016. climbing on August 26, 2016 with Officers and five mountaineers set The team thereafter staged forward textbook precision. The team not only foot atop the peak after a long and from staging camps to Summit camp stood up to the challenges posed arduous climb of 10 hours at 9:15 to exploit the earliest window in the by the formidable peak, renowned am IST on August 26, 2016. The post monsoon climbing season, often for its tricky and treacherous slopes team hoisted the National flag and MAHAR flag on the peak. The second team under team deputy leader Major Sachin Agarwal along with one Officer, one Junior Commissioned Officer and four climbers advanced to reach the summit at 6:45 pm on the same day as the forecast projected bad weather for next three days. The VCOAS commended the feat of the expedition team and complimented the Regiment on the occasion of Platinum Jubilee of the MAHAR Regiment. He observed that the young soldiers would draw inspiration from their achievement and will add new chapters by climbing higher peak thus adding more glories to the Regiment and Indian Army. - Col Rohan Anand
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 13 Army Teams to Visit Engineering Institutes Preliminary Selection for University Entry Scheme
rmy teams will soon visit Avarious engineering institutes in Karnataka and other states of southern India to make preliminary selection of students who have applied for the University Entry Scheme (UES) for permanent commission in the Indian Army. Maj Gen VPS Bhakuni, Commandant of Selection Centre South in Bengaluru said, the Military Preliminary Selection Teams (MPSTs) have been briefed on selection techniques in Bengaluru and they will carry out screening of potential candidates starting from October 15, and continue till the end of March The Commandant, quoting The percentage of officer cadets 2017. Online applications for the UPSC annual report said, the at OTA from the Southern part of course commencing in July 2018 number of youth aspiring for India is approximately 17% and this were invited from male students figure doesn't do justice to either studying in 3rd year engineering National Defence Academy (NDA) course and there was overwhelming and Combined Defence Service the demography or the talent pool response for it. Each team, which (CDS) has been increasing every available in the region. Hence, there includes a Presiding Officer and two year. In 2013-14, while 7.76 is a need to reach out to youth in the other members, will visit concerned lakh candidates applied for 1,228 southern states. With this objective, engineering colleges, institutes and posts in civil services, 11.08 lakh besides shortlisting candidates for universities in designated places, applied for 1,700 posts in NDA UES, the MPSTs will also deliver and undertake the process to shortlist and CDS. Applicants to post ratio motivational lecture to students and the candidates. Such a process is was 632.41 for civil services and explain various job opportunities being held after a gap of one year, 651.91 for NDA and CDS during available in the Army. he added. same year. - Pailoor Shivram
14 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 Western Command Celebrates its 69th Anniversary
n the momentous occasion of Ranks of Western Command have O69th Raising Day of the Western acquitted themselves well in the past Command, the frontline operational and continue to do so in present command of the Indian Army, Lt challenging times. A high standard Gen IS Ghuman, Chief of Staff, HQ of professionalism and dedication Western Command laid a wreath has been the hallmark of the at the Veer Smriti, Chandimandir Command. With “Ever Westwards” to pay homage to the Martyrs of being its clarion call, the Western Western Command. Wreaths were Army was instrumental in blunting also laid by other senior officers of the Pakistani aggression in 1947, the Command. Large number of 1965 and 1971, and subsequently Officers, JCOs and Jawans were carrying the battle into enemy present on the occasion. The Raising territory. Its formations and units Day was celebrated with traditional have participated and distinguished gaiety and fervour at Chandimandir. themselves, winning a large number The Command was raised of gallantry awards including eleven in 1947 as Delhi and East Punjab Param Vir Chakras. Command with HQ at Delhi was Western Command has time re-designated ‘Western Command’ and again provided succour to the in January 1948. The genesis of civilian population. Be it during Western Command was forged natural calamities, undertaking on the anvil of one of the most counter terrorist operations or challenging trans-border migration participating in Nation building of human population. In 1954 the activities, troops of the Command HQ of the Command moved to have always been in the fore front Shimla. After the Indo-Pak Conflict in providing aid to civil authorities. Ever since its raising, Western of 1971, Northern Command, with The Western Army will continue Command which has the glorious its HQ at Udhampur, was carved to maintain the highest standards out of Western Command to assume history of having participated in all the of training, administration and operational responsibility of Jammu major conflict both on our Western motivation in carrying out its duties and Kashmir. Later, HQ Western and Northern frontiers, has carved a in support of National security Command moved to its present niche for itself - replete with saga of interests. location at Chandimandir in 1985. bravery, grit and determination. All - Text and pix: Pradip Dasgupta
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 15 IAF's Induction Publicity and Exhibition Vehicle Mesmerises the Youth of Gujarat
he Indian Air Force organized Tan extensive publicity drive to motivate young students to join Indian Air Force in Officers cadre. A specialised Induction Publicity Exhibition Vehicle (IPEV) was used for the publicity drive to enable students to know about career opportunities available in the Indian Air Force. The IPEV is among the many new initiatives being planned with the aim of staying connected with today’s tech-savvy and button- friendly generation. Launched in October 2015, it primarily is a custom modified Volvo Bus. The creatively-designed exteriors and state-of-the-art equipment like touch panels, tabs, simulators and video screens provide a unique viewing experience to the budding students. The IPEV houses an Information Zone which gives aspirants all career- related information on the IAF. The Experience Zone gives a refreshing feel to visitors on Sarang aerobatics team, Air Warrior Drill Team, flying among others. The Experience Zone is supported via Glasstron goggles. The vehicle also has a Simulator Zone where one can experience the joy of flying various aircraft. The aircraft Model Zone displays latest aircraft in the IAF inventory with their features and videos. The drive commenced in Gujarat on September 6, 2016 in Gandhinagar. The IPEV visited various Colleges / Institutes in Gandhinagar from September 6 to 10, 2016 and thereafter showcased itself in Vadodara from September 14 to 16, 2016. Awe struck by the meticulously packaged specialised vehicle that also housed a flying simulator of the IAF's front line fighter aircraft – Sukhoi 30 MKI provided the youngsters a hands on experience of the thrills of combat flying – there was an unending beeline for a sneak peek at the interiors of this unique hi-tech vehicle at every venue that the IPEV visited. This Publicity drive that started from Delhi is scheduled to cover approx 250 institutes in 23 major cities upto the southern parts of the country in a period of six months. - Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 17 Air Force Association Celebrates its Annual Day
ir Force Association is a Awelfare organisation in the non-governmental sector, actively involved in the welfare of air veterans and their families since September 15, 1980. The Association was established under the patronage of Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh Padma Vibhushan DFC. It has nineteen branches spread all over the country and abroad with two branches in UK and Australia. The raising day of the Air Force Association is celebrated on 15th September each year. The Annual Day began in the morning with the Wreath Laying Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) & Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal Ceremony at Amar Jawan Jyoti at Arup Raha and Vice President of Air Force Association Veteran Air Marshal TS Randhawa India Gate on September 15, 2016 (Retd) during Annual General Body meeting at Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi
President of Air Force Association Veteran Air Chief Marshal NAK Browne (Retd) along with other veterans laying wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate on the occasion of Annual day of Air Force Association
18 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 President of Air Force Association Veteran Air Chief Marshal NAK Browne (Retd) (Second from left) and Vice President of Air Force Association Veteran Air Marshal TS Randhawa (Retd) during Annual General Body meeting
Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) & Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha addressing the veterans of Air Force Association during Annual General Body meeting in the memory of those who laid 2016. This was followed by Annual the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Arup down their lives for the motherland. General Body Meeting held at Air Raha was the Chief Guest. Many The wreath laying ceremony was Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, retired Chiefs of the Air Staff, along led by the new president of Air where-in some of the Air Force with large number of air warriors Force Association Veteran Air Octogenarians were honoured and Chief Marshal NAK Browne (Retd) were presented mementos by the Air attended the Annual General who took over the responsibilities Force Association, wishing them a Meeting. of association since September 7, healthy and long life. The Chief of - Wg Cdr Anupam Banerjee
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 19 Yudh Abhyas-2016 Indo-US Joint Military Exercise
udh Abhyas 2016, a joint military Ytraining exercise of Indian and US Armies, was held at Chaubattia, Uttarakhand from September 15-27, 2016. This was the twelfth edition of the joint military exercise hosted alternately by both countries. The US contingent was represented by a Company of 5th Infantry Battalion, 20 Infantry Regiment, 2 Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 7 Infantry Division, US Army while the Indian side was represented by an Infantry Battalion (12 MADRAS). The opening ceremony of Yudh Abhyas 2016 was held at Maj Gen RK Raina and Maj Gen Thomas James during the validation exercise Chaubattia on September 15, 2016. Indian and US soldiers stood side by side in an impressive military parade that saw the unfurling of the national flags of both countries while their National Anthems "Jana Gana Mana” and “The Star Spangled Banner" played. The joint contingent gave a ceremonial salute to the two senior most officers of the US and Indian side reviewing the ceremony. The Indian Brigade Commander, Brig AK Kashid welcomed the US soldiers and in his inaugural remarks highlighted the common shared beliefs of democracy, freedom, Indo US troops in house clearance drills during Yudh Abhyas at Chaubattia equality and justice that both countries cherish. The combined exercise simulated a scenario where both nations worked together in a Counter Insurgency and Counter Terrorism environment in mountainous terrain under a UN charter. The exercise witnessed participation of about 225 personnel of the US Army and similar strength of the Indian Army. The exercise curriculum was progressively planned where the participants are initially made Indian and US Brigade Commanders reviewing the training contingents during the opening to get familiar with each other’s ceremony of Yudh Abhyas organizational structure, weapons,
20 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 simulated realistic situation, in the Command Post Exercise covering all the planning aspects. The field training culminated with a 48 hours consolidation and validation exercise in which troops of both countries carried out a daring rescue and destroy mission in the general area of Pilkholi near Chaubattia. Troops were inducted by helicopters into a notional hostile area in the heavily forested areas of Chaubattia, at heights ranging from 6000 feet to 7800 feet. It began with a march of approx 6 kilometers with complete battle loads of almost 30 kilograms on each soldier; where in the physical fitness of the soldiers of both nations was put to acid test. The tactical picture painted required both the contingents to carry out various tactical operations to include Raid and Cordon & Search operations. Emphasis was also laid on use of state of the art equipment for surveillance, tracking and identification of terrorists, use of specialist weapons for close quarter battles, sensing & neutralizing Indian and US contingents at the opening India US troops negotiating obstacles ceremony of Yudh Abhyas during cliff assault IEDs and establishing effective communication. equipment and tactical drills. The Joint Drills included Room Intervention, Cordon and Search in Counter Terrorist Operations, Jungle Lane Shooting, Reflex Shooting, Long Range Firing and Cliff Assault Techniques. Subsequently, the training advanced to joint tactical exercises wherein the battle drills of both the armies were coherently unleashed. The commanders and staff officers of both sides were also exercised to work in close coordination to receive and collate intelligence and to issue suitable operational orders to the combined field training components, who executed these orders on ground in Maj Gen RK Raina interacting with US troops during the validation exercise
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 21 contingents also participated in a number of extracurricular activities including friendly football and basketball matches, visit to Nainital and a cultural programme during the “Barakhana” on the final day. A magnificent parade and the customary exchange of mementoes marked the successful completion of Indo-US combined Army Exercise. Maj Gen RK Raina in his address Indo US troops slithering down from helicopter to neutralise terrorist hideout during the closing ceremony
Indo US troops in joint drills during Yudh Abhyas at Chaubattia Maj Gen Thomas James interacting with Indian troops during the validation exercise The validation exercise was the validation exercise.The exercise congratulated both contingents on reviewed by Maj Gen RK Raina, was concluded with de-briefing successful conduct of exercise. He General Officer Commanding of by the contingent commanders stated that Indo – US friendship is a Division of the Indian Army and and valuable suggestions by the steadily rising and the bonhomie Maj Gen Thomas James, General senior reviewing officers of both shown by both contingents further Officer Commanding, 7 Infantry sides, which would be recorded for reinforces it and paves the way for Division of the US Army. A host of implementation in the training by a strong and irrevocable strategic dignitaries and number of Senior both armies. partnership. He also stated that Officers of both the armies observed Besides training, both the both countries are faced with similar
22 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 Troops of India and US during the validation exercise Indo US troops in joint drills during Yudh Abhyas at Chaubattia
Indo US troops in joint drills involving neutralisation of terrorist hideout during Bonhomie at its best - Indo US troops during Yudh Yudh Abhyas at Chaubattia Abhyas at Chaubattia strengthening cooperation and increasing readiness. He also expressed the view that this strong bond is important to regional growth and stability and getting to know each other creates the trust that is critical to bilateral combined operations. The combined exercise was undoubtedly, an unprecedented success. Besides promoting Maj Gen RK Raina and Major General Thomas James reviewing the parade during closing understanding and interoperability ceremony of Yudh Abhyas in Chaubattia between the two armies, it further challenges from the divisive forces US Army in his address stated helped in strengthening ties between of extremism and international that our army to army relationship India and US. terrorism. The synergy achieved has never been stronger and this - Col Rohan Anand with would enable us to operate together, exercise provides us a great way to Gp Capt BB Pande and if the need arises. build upon that strong relationship, Gargi Malik Sinha Maj Gen Thomas James of by enhancing interoperability, pix: VK Singh
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 23 AWWA Day Celebrations
aised on August 23, 1966, RArmy Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) is one of the largest voluntary organisations in India. Year 2016 is the Golden Jubilee Year of AWWA. The fifty glorious years have been a saga of Army Wives braving all odds, standing in support of each other through testing times. AWWA’s oneness is the strong invisible support for the Army personals who serve on the frontiers worry less. In President AWWA was the chief the five decades of existence, AWWA guest for the function at Delhi. has transformed from a facilitator The function had motivational to Veer Naris, to a wide range of talk, important information on skill roles in welfare, education, health training, skit on Swachh Bharat of its ladies, care of widows, their dependents and exclusive schools for Abhiyan, self defence programme the differently abled. and traditional Indian state dance
The AWWA celebrations were 2016. The event was celebrated at performances. In Delhi, various held over a period of seven days Delhi, Regional and Zonal levels activities and competitions were the final day being August 23, all over India. Mrs Namita Suhag, organised. A few of them were tree
24 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 A workshop for Veer Naris was AWWA reach so high, establishing also organised from August 2 to 4, a place of its own in the voluntary 2016 at Delhi. The Veer Naris were organisations of India. also felicitated by President AWWA The AWWA Day also saw on culmination of the seminar. the release of the Asha Greeting The AWWA Day address by Cards, Asha Wrapping Paper, President AWWA highlighted the AWWA Journal Avani and AWWA achievements of the predecessors Coffee Table Book. The event and their remarkable contributing to AWWA. President AWWA thanked culminated with the felicitation of the plantation, Run for Fun, Painting, her predecessors and all the valuable participants and thanks giving to all Healthy Baby and Master Chef members of AWWA fraternity past the attendees. competition. and prime present for helping - Col Rohan Anand
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 25 143rd Defence Pension Adalat Held
two-day Defence Pension Adalat was inaugurated by A Mr SK Kohli, IDAS, Controller General of Defence Accounts, New Delhi at the Chopra Auditorium, ASC Centre and College in Bengaluru on September 26, 2016. Mr SK Kohli in his inaugural address said, considering the popularity of Pension Adalats and their effectiveness, the number of Pension Adalats to be organized every year have been increased. He added that a lot of initiatives have been planned like Jeevan Pramaan (Digital Life Certificate), dedicated pension portal dpdopensioners.org, issue of e-PPOs and dedicated Call Centre for Pensioners. He also stated that all future revisions will be centrally done by the Pension Sanctioning Authorities to eliminate incorrect and non-revision besides delay. He stressed that the endeavor of the Department is to reach out to the pensioners rather than waiting for them to approach the authority. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Praveen Kumar, IDAS, Principal CDA (Pensions), Allahabad stated that Karnataka and Kerala Sub Area detailed the various there are around 25 lakh defence pensioners / family steps taken by the Armed Forces for the welfare of the pensioners in the country and the pre 2006 pensioners ex-servicemen and their families. constitute around 18 lakh. All efforts are being taken to The highlight of the inaugural function was the completely digitize the records and fully computerize the presentation of citations/cheques to a few pensioners pension sanction activity. whose cases were resolved due to the intervention of the Mr Roshan Lal Negi, IDAS, Controller of Defence Adalat. An arrear of Rs 39.94 lakh was credited to the Accounts, Chennai and Chairman, Defence Pension bank account of Mrs Madhuram Sundaresan. While Mrs Adalat, stated that the present Adalat is the 8th Adalat Varalakshmi Joseph was given an amount of Rs 31.92 to be held in the State of Karnataka and the 6th Adalat Lakh, Mrs Kunju Kunjamma received a sum of Rs 11.23 being organized in Bengaluru. The Adalat has received Lakh on behalf of her mother Mrs Kunjamma and Ex- 890 applications and 297 applications have already Subedar T Thirunavukkarasu received an arrear of Rs been settled. 53 pensioners have benefited financially 7.22 Lakh. Mrs Seethammal, a 102 years old defence and the total amount disbursed to the pensioners as pensioner was also honoured on the occasion. a result of intervention of the Adalat is to the tune of Maj Gen NS Rajpurohit, Deputy Commandant and Rs.1.57 crores. Chief Instructor of ASC Centre and College was also Maj Gen KS Nijjar, General Officer Commanding, present on the occasion. - Shivaram Piloor
26 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 Leh's Hall of Fame Museum - Tops India List
' all of Fame' at Leh has topped Hthe list of five Indian museums and figured in the list of best twenty five museums of Asia. The Hall of Fame (HoF) at Leh was established in 1986 to showcase the valour, sacrifice and achievements of the Indian Army in various operations in Ladakh, it also displays the culture and heritage of the region. Over the last three decades, the Hall of Fame has become a major attraction for domestic and foreign tourists alike, having an annual footfall of Hall of Fame Complex, to include in the recent past to rededicate these over 1,50,000 visitors. A major the War Memorial, War Cemetery, monuments to the people of Ladakh. upgradation and expansion of the Adventure Park has been completed - Col SD Goswami
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 27 Indian Naval Academy Parents of Newly Inducted Cadets on their Maiden Visit
he much awaited and anticipated Tmidterm break for the cadets of Indian Naval Academy was scheduled from 14 to 18 September 2016. Midterm break is the only period when cadets obtain the much required “time” from their otherwise demanding routine to rejuvenate and explore nearby places. The midterm break saw parents of newly inducted cadets visiting Indian Naval Academy (INA) for the very first time. 380 parents and relatives/guardians from length and breadth of the country visited INA to meet and encourage their sons Proud mother of the newly inducted cadet interacting with an Officer of Indian Naval and daughters undergoing training Academy on her maiden visit
Delighted parents and relatives bond with their sons and daughters undergoing training at INA
at INA. This was the first time they had an opportunity to bond and interact in person with their sons and daughters since their induction in Parents of the newly inducted cadets being familiarised on the various training facilities, sports facilities, laboratories and simulator at INA. June 2016.
28 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 Rear Admiral MD Suresh, Deputy Commandant and Chief Instructor of Indian Naval Academy addressing the parents and relatives of newly inducted cadets on their maiden visit to INA
Parents and relatives of newly inducted cadets at INA on their maiden visit The visiting parents were Commandant and Chief Instructor, and support arrangements at INA familarised with the existing training INA and other officers interacted and were proud that their wards are curriculum, training facilities, sports with the visiting parents and clarified training tough and have chosen a facilities, laboratories and simulators all their queries and apprehensions. at INA during their maiden visit. The parents were appreciative of career to serve the nation. Rear Admiral MD Suresh, Deputy the state of the art training facilities - Lt Cdr RG Ajith
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 29 RCI is one the global leader in Avionics
esearch Centre RImarat (RCI) is a premier DRDO laboratory spearheading the design, development and delivery of state-of- the-art Avionics Systems for entire Indian missile development programmes. It was established on August 27, 1988 under the leadership of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam who envisioned building a world class research centre at Hyderabad and led the laboratory as MRSAM, Programme AD - PDV interceptor, Two stage its Founding Director. Over the last two and half decades, Ship Launched Target, AAD, Helina, Nag and other under the leadership of many eminent visionaries, defence programmes. The Avionics Systems developed right from Lt Gen VJ Sundaram, Dr VK Saraswat, Dr G by RCI played a key role in the stupendous success of the Satheesh Reddy, RCI stands tall with its achievements and Indian ICBM class Agni 5 missions. has transformed itself into a robust multi-dimensional RCI has been strongly collaborating with Academic technology hub for design, development and delivery of Institutes and Industries. Presently more than 200 critical Avionics Systems such as Control, Navigation, industries are able to support the production requirements Guidance, Seekers, Telemetry, Power Supply Systems of advanced avionics sensors and systems. Mr BHVS and Embedded Computers for various Strategic and Narayana Murthy, Outstanding Scientist an alumni of Tactical programmes of National importance. Keeping REC, Warangal took over as Director, Research Centre in line with its Vision and Mission, this laboratory Imarat (RCI), DRDO, Hyderabad on September 12, has contributed to the successful development and 2016. Since last three decades he has made significant demonstration of various missile systems in the areas of contributions towards Design, Development and Delivery core competence while overcoming technology denials, of Onboard Computers, Missile Launch Processors, sanctions and restrictions. It has build a strong foundation Real-time Mission softwares with novel fault tolerant by establishing the technologies required for the schemes and System on Chip for various tactical and ongoing and futuristic programmes. RCI has contributed strategic missile programmes. enormously to - Agni, Astra, Akash, BrahMos, Nirbhay, - K Ramesh
30 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 Army Commander Visits Alwar Military Station
Lt Gen Sarath Chand, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief South Western Command visited Alwar Military Station. He was accompanied by Lieutenant General Shokin Chauhan, General Officer Commanding Strike One Corps and Lieutenant General Ashwini Kumar, General Officer Commanding Chetak Corps. The Army Commander visited the Army units and formations in the station. He was briefed on their operational role and battle readiness. He also reviewed the training and welfare projects being undertaken in the station. He was Mrs Bindu Sharath Chand, Regional President AWWA, South Western Command at Alwar Military Station briefed on the measures undertaken to enhance the quality of life of the ranks to maintain the highest level of minds’ of the Army Public Schools troops and creation of a stress free readiness to deal with any situation. and other schools run by the army congenial atmosphere. Mrs Bindu Sarath Chand, who in the station. The visit has boosted The General Officer also accompanied the GOC-in-C, the morale of the troops in Alwar Commanding-in-Chief congratulated visited the Vocational Training Military Station and has given a new all ranks of the station for their Centre established for training of sustained hard work and the excellent wives and wards of army personnel. impetus to their dedication and zeal. standards achieved. He exhorted all She also interacted with ‘young - Lt Col Manish Ojha
Army Commander South Western Command with GOC Strike One and GOC Chetak Corps at Alwar Military Station
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 31 ICGS Sarathi Commissioning of Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV)
ndian Coast Guard Ship “Sarathi”, Ithird ship in the series of six Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) was commissioned at Goa by Mr Rajnath Singh, Hon’ble Home Minister of India on September 9, 2016 in the presence of Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar and Director General Rajendra Singh, Director General Indian Coast Guard, CMD Goa Shipyard Limited Rear Admiral Shekhar Mittal (Retd) and other senior dignitaries of the Central and State Government. ‘Sarathi’ meaning ‘Charioteer’ is a projection of Indian Coast Guard’s will and commitment “to serve and protect” the maritime interest of the nation. This 105 meters OPV designed high speed boats for swift boarding has an endurance of 6000 NM at and built indigenously by Goa Shipyard Ltd, is fitted with most operations, search and rescue, law economical speed. The ship is based advanced state-of-the-art technology enforcement and is also capable at Kochi and will subsequently form navigation and communication of carrying pollution response part of the Naval Training Squadron. equipment, sensors and machineries. equipment to contain oil spill at sea. Presently, Indian Coast Guard The ship is designed to carry one The ship is capable of attaining a has a Fleet of 123 ships and twin engine Light Helicopter and five maximum speed of 26 Knots and boats. Further, 68 Ships/boats are
32 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 at various stages of construction at different Indian shipyards. The commissioning of this vessel and other platforms will add additional prowess to the Indian Coast Guard which will emerge as stronger and more potent force to address the emerging security challenges in maritime zones of India. ICGS Sarathi is commanded by Commandant Atul Joshi and manned by 14 officers & 98 men. The ship will be under the administrative and operational control of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (West). The commissioning of ICGS Sarathi will enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s operational capability to discharge the multifarious maritime tasks. With the increased threat from sea borne terrorism, the induction of a sophisticated and state-of-the-art OPV will give a fillip to the maritime security of our vast coastline and in particular the maritime state of Kerala and island territories of Lakshadweep & Minicoy. - Comdt VK Vijay Kumar
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 33 Chakravyuh
Q 1. An academics related organisation has its Q 5. Ekta our Anushashan is the motto of which branches located at Shimla, Ajmer, Belgaum, organisation? Bangalore and Dholpur. Logo of organisation Q 6. What is the equivalent rank in Indian Navy of shown in Picture. Identify this organisation. the Indian Air Force rank of Master Warrant (PIC-1) Officer ? Q 2. Indian Army’s warrior shown in picture was Q 7. At Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh, MoS for Home awarded Ashoka Chakra (Posthumous) for his Affairs Mr. Kiren Rijiju inaugurated the upgraded gallant action of eliminating three terrorists in ALG, recently. Indian Air Force frontline fighter Naugam Sector in Kupwara. Identify him. (PIC- jet SU-30 MKI also made a landing at the ALG. 2) What is the full form of ALG ? Q 3. Air Marshal MK Malik, Air Officer-in-Charge Q 8. Which command of Indian Navy is located in Administration of Indian Air Force and Vice Mumbai ? Chairman of ‘Subroto Mukerjee Sports Q 9. A man of many firsts in the field of parachuting, Education Society’ received a Trophy from two of his achievements are acknowledged as Hon’ble President of India on August 29, 2016 world records and seven others as National at a ceremony in Rastrapati Bhawan. What is Records. He was the first Indian to introduce the name of this Trophy ? (PIC-3) tandem skydiving in the Indian Air Force. What Q 4. An Army Officer who passed away in January is the name of this skydiver ? (PIC-5) this year was best known for the role he played Q 10. To which class does the Indian Navy ship in India’s victory in the India-Pakistan war of “Nirbhik” belong ? 1971 and the Liberation of Bangladesh. He also served as the Governor of the Indian Q 11. At what age does a Field Marshal retire ? states of Goa and Punjab. Identify this famous Q 12. Name the two commands of IAF which are not personality. (PIC-4) Operational Commands.
Pic-1 Pic-2 Pic-3
Pic-4 Pic-5 Answers 1 Rashtriya Military School. 2 Hav Hangpan Dada, Ashok Chakra (Posthumous). 3 Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar. 4 Lt Gen JFR Jacob. 5 NCC. 6 Master Chief Petty Officer -1st. 7 Advance Landing Ground. 8 Western Naval Command. 9 Sqn Ldr Sanjay Thapar VM. 10 Veer Class. 11 A Field Marshal does not retire. 12 Maintenance Command and Training Command. - Wg Cdr Samir Gangakhedkar
34 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 Dr AK Mishra Honoured with Rajbhasha Gaurav Award
he Hon'ble President Mr Pranab TMukherjee honoured Dr Amlish Kumar Mishra, Dy Director, History Division, Ministry of Defence, under the Rajbhasha Gaurav Award Scheme on Hindi Divas, at Rashtrapati Bhawan, for his book "Prachin Bhartiya Rajnaya me Guptacharo ka Mahatva". His book was adjudged as an original work of research in Rajbhasha. Dr Mishra has researched into the role of spies in the history of India, beginning from the Vedic times. In this connection he has graphically collated the information enshrined in the Vedas, Epic and Niti works of the Arthshastra of Kautilya. VCOAS visits 11 Gorkha Rifles Regimental Centre
ieutenant General Bipin Rawat, Rawat, Vice President of AWWA. Officers (JCOs) and Jawans. His LVice chief of Army Staff & Colonel They were welcomed by Centre encouraging words boosted the of the regiment 11th Gorkha Rifles Commandant, Brigadier Pankaj morale of the troops to further & Sikkim Scouts visited 11 GRRC. Singh. heights. Later he presided DPC and Lieutenant General Rawat was Lt Gen Bipin Rawat addressed 11 GR Welfare Association meeting. accompanied by Mrs Madhulika Officers, Junior Commissioned Mrs Rawat, Vice President of AWWA interacted with the family members of JCOs and Jawans of 11 GRRC and visited various Regimental Institutes. Lt Gen Bipin Rawat witnessed DAS memorial football tournament. The Annual tournament is organised in the memory of late Lt PC Das, who made supreme sacrifice for the nation on October 6, 1949 in Kargil, while on duty. - Gargi Malik Sinha
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 35 Nurturing Technologies for a Stronger Nation
“ nation is strong only if its academic, economic, A scientific and technological sectors are strong. We need to work together to make our nation strong and self-reliant in these areas”, said Dr G Satheesh Reddy, SA to RM while delivering the 30th Convocation address at the SASTRA University, Thanjavur, Tamilnadu on September 11, 2016. On this occasion, Dr Satheesh was conferred with Honorary Doctorate of Science by the SASTRA University. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Satheesh said, “Science and Technology has traversed a long path from the times of Indus Valley to Higgs Boson. Our Nation has put in appreciable efforts in Dr G Satheesh Reddy, SA to RM & Director General, Missiles and the field of basic and applied research. The Defence Strategic Systems, DRDO, Hyderabad being conferred with Honorary technology landscape is undergoing a major shift with Doctorate of Science by SASTRA University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu the development of advanced systems. Indigenisation our inherent Science and Technology strengths, those of technologies has put us on a path where we can we need to capitalise upon. R&D institutes, academia confidently march along with the rest. We are no longer and industry need to collaborate, work hand-in-hand ‘only buyers’, but have gained enough expertise in vital and provide innovative solutions, quality products and areas.” He also said that “the outstanding achievements services”. of our nation in Space and Missile technologies reflect - K Ramesh Army Joins Hands With Tata Motors
wenty eight young boys from Dhillon, Chief of Staff, Northern disbursed appointment letters for TJammu and Kashmir attended a Command at Udhampur. employment with their dealerships thirteen week training programme The faculty of TATA Strive and and certificates for the training to the organised by the Army and TATA senior delegates from TATA Motors students. Strive at Ropar. The training included including their top management, Lt Gen GS Dhillon expressed theory as well practical classes who were present during the his satisfaction during his interaction at TATA Motors on Automobile flagging-in ceremony expressed Engineering, as a part of the certified their appreciation at the uptake and and exhorted the young men to use automobile service technical training commitment shown by these young this training for their future growth course. The team of these young men in acquiring knowledge and and development. men was flagged-in by Lt Gen GS picking up skills. TATA Motors also - Col SD Goswami
36 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 AOC-IN-C, Eastern Air Command Visits Air Force Station Kalaikunda
ir Marshal C Hari Kumar, Air Officer Commanding- Ain-Chief, Eastern Air Command accompanied by his wife Mrs Devika Hari Kumar, President Air Force Wives Welfare Association (Regional) visited Air Force station Kalaikunda from September 15 to 16, 2016. On arrival at Kalaikunda Air Field, he was received by Air Commodore Rajesh Purohit, Air Officer Commanding, 5 Wg, AF along with Mrs Kachnar Purohit, President Air Force Wives Welfare Association (Local). The AOC-in-C was presented an impressive ceremonial parade by the air warriors. While addressing Station personnel, he emphasised that IAF is on a trajectory of modernisation and is transforming into a Mrs Devika Hari Kumar, President Air Force Wives strategic aerospace power with full spectrum capability. Welfare Association (Regional) visited various ventours He urged all personnel to display exemplary dedication of Air Force Wives Welfare Association (Local) including in pursuit of excellence. During the visit, the AOC-in-C Umeed Vidya Kiran (a play school for children with also reviewed various measures being undertaken by the special needs) and Air Force School. Station towards operational capability enhancement. - Wg Cdr SS Birdi IAF Conducts Quiz Competition for Wards of Air Force Personnel
Quiz Competition for the wards of Air Force round of the competition. Each Command sponsors one A Personnel was held at Air Force Auditorium Subroto team for the Competition at Air Force level. The Quiz Park, New Delhi on September 26, 2016. competition was hosted by Mr. Rajiv Makhni, an Indian The Air Headquarters team won the competition Technology Journalist and Managing Editor of NDTV. and Central Air Command team was the runner up. The Chief Guest Mrs. Lily Raha, President AFWWA gave The Quiz Competition was organised as a part of away prizes to the participants. the "IAF Anniversary Celebrations 2016" with an aim of The preliminary round of the Quiz Competition promoting general awareness and inculcating a habit of was conducted on September 24, 2016. During this learning amongst the Air Warriors and their wards. round four teams were selected to participate in the final -Wg Cdr Anupam Banerjee
Mrs Lily Raha, President Air Force Wives Welfare Association (AFWWA), Air Vice Marshal (AVM) SS Sharma, Asst Chief of the Air Staff (ACAS) Education and Mr Rajiv Makhni, the quiz master with the participants of Air Force quiz competition organized as part of Air Force day celebrations-2016 at Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 37 IOR: The New Playground For Power Politics
n an effort to understand, appreciate and adapt to the Inew dimensions of power politics unravelling in the Indian Ocean region, a Command Seminar was jointly conducted on September 22, 2016 by the Centre for Airpower Studies & HQ Southern Air Command at AF Station Sulur. The seminar was aimed at comprehending the prevailing and future trends and preparing operationally for the challenges to national security well in advance. Accordingly the vast panoply of issues ranging from the changing power equation, the new challenges for the war fighter as also the rising importance and challenges of off-shore assets were dwelt upon in some detail. The event accordingly saw participation from a and issue-based they were aimed at seeking solutions variety of serving and retired senior ranks distinguished to the pertinent issues. A variety of solutions that impact academics as also operational commanders. All the three services were involved with very close interaction with the India’s national security and enable greater operational navy being witnessed in the particular realm of maritime efficiency were arrived at in the seminar that left the operations. The presentations followed by discussions audience academically and operationally enriched. were free and frank and in addition to being contextual - T Shanmugam AOC Centre Organises a Guided Tour for Students
s part of the Southern Star Info an exciting and challenging carreer Heritage Citation, Sand Model ACampaign, Army Ordnance in the Indian Army. The event was Room depicting various regions like Corps (AOC) Centre organised a inaugurated by the Commandant, plains, plateous, mountains, desert guided tour for the students to the AOC Centre, Brigadier Pramod etc., and the instructors briefied the various institutions in Secunderabad Kumar Sharma. students about the general conduct on September 28, 2016. Around 100 During the guided tour, the of various Military drills. They also students from various schools from students visited the Motivation visited the obstacle training area, twin cities enjoyed the trip. The aim Hall of the AOC Centre which has Parade ground and witnessed the Passing out Parade. The students got of the event was to familiarize and received the prestigious Indian an opportunity to see the simulator motivate the young students to join National Trust for Art and Cultural room where they were exposed to various simulators which are used for training of recruits. The display by AOC Centre Pipe Band completely memerized the visitors. Students got an opportunity to meet and interact with the Indian Army’s Body Building Team and Other National / International Sportsmen. The event concluded with informal but informative interactions of Students with Army Officers on various entry schemes and opportunities in the Armed Forces. - G Suresh Kumar
38 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 International Coastal Cleanup Day-2016
r Saidai Duraisamy Mayor Chennai inaugurated Mthe International Coastal Cleanup Day in presence of R Natraj MLA, Inspector General Rajan Bargotra Commander, Coast Guard Region (East), and Senior Coast Guard Officers from various Coast Guard Ships and establishments on September 17, 2016. Narsinghma Rao GM Syndicate Bank was also present during the event. The event was organised by the Indian Coast Guard as a part of UN Environment programme along the Chennai Coastline of Marina Beach and Elliot Beach. About 3000 personnel including families from various units of Coast Guard, CSG, CISF, Student Volunteers from various Schools, Colleges, National Cadet Corps, NSS and NGOs participated in the Mr Saidai Duraisamy, Mayor of Chennai Corporation, R Natraj MLA and Inspector General Rajan Bargotra, Commander Coast International Coastal Cleanup at Chennai. Guard Region (East) inaugurated the International Coastal Cleanup Speaking on the occasion the chief guest Day organized by Indian Coast Guard Region (East) at Marina Beach in Chennai highlighted and stressed the need to keep the beaches and sea areas clean and free from all kinds of litter and world. International Coastal Cleanup Day is organized pollution. He also requested the general public to ensure on the third Saturday of September every year towards safe, hygienic and secure breaches to enjoy its beauty maintaining the beaches “Clean and Green”. as Marina Beach is the second largest beach in the - T Shanmugam Annual CEOs & SLOs Conference: 2016
he South Western Air Command (SWAC) of Indian Welcoming the gathering, Senior Maintenance Staff TAir Force conducted the Annual Chief Engineering Officer, HQ SWAC, Air Vice Marshal AK Gupta said, “The Officers and Senior Logistics Officers Conference main focus in the current year should be improvement at its Head Quarters at Gandhinagar, Gujarat on of serviceability of airborne weapon platforms, ground September 23, 2016. Air Marshal RK Dhir, Air Officer support systems, EW and Avionics systems and training Commanding-in-Chief, SWAC IAF presided over the of air warriors to enhance Operational capabilities of inaugural function. Delivering the key note address, SWAC with emphasis on safety in every sphere of activity”. AOC-in-C stressed the crucial role of techno-logistics He also emphasised on the need for innovations and personnel in managing the assets of IAF ranging from ‘Make in India’ for resolving the obsolescence issue. legacy systems to state of the art technology. With the aim of real time review of maintenance potential to enhance the fighting capability of the Air Force elements under the area of responsibility of SWAC, the conference saw active participation. Demonstration of important innovations undertaken in the field towards achieving higher levels of aerospace and maintenance safety was an additional feature. Discussions held during the sessions covered various maintenance issues and practices that could help reduce down time of equipment, enhance availability & reliability of assets and improve Operational effectiveness. - Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 39 NCC Boys Expedition to Mt Bhagirathi II (6512M) Flagging-in Ceremony
aj Gen JS Sandhu Officiating MDGNCC flagged-in the NCC Boys Expedition to Mt Bhagirathi II on September 22, 2016 at New Delhi. He congratulated the boy cadets and the support staff for their splendid effort and demonstration of grit and courage to overcome the challenges of rugged terrain and hostile weather conditions in their bid to summit the peak. Earlier the Expedition Leader Col SS Phogat shared his experience and the challenges faced by the expedition during their difficult attempt. The Expedition which was above 6000m gave the NCC cadets a very good exposure to high altitude their colleagues to experience the qualities of courage, comradeship, and extreme weather conditions. multitude of adventure and sports discipline, leadership and a spirit of During the interaction, DG activities offered by NCC. He said adventure amongst the NCC cadets. urged the cadets to encourage the expedition will help imbibe the - Lt Col Umang Kohli Red Eagle Motorcycle Expedition-2016 Flagged Off
nfusing sense of adventure activities a Motorcycle Expedition was This motorcycle expedition Ihas always been an area of interest undertaken by Red Eagle Division comprising of three officers, two to Armed Forces. Army encourages under the aegis of Strike 1. The Junior Commissioned Officers and junior leadership, esprit-de-corps, expedition was flagged off by Lt Gen nine Jawans covered a total of and camaraderie to develop a Shokin Chauhan, General Officer 1700 kms while traversing through one district of Uttar Pradesh, twelve sense of achievement amongst all Commanding Strike 1 on August districts of Rajasthan and finally ranks. In line with these endeavours, 27, 2016 at Mathura. culminated back at Mathura on September 9, 2016. Steering through the plains of Uttar Pradesh to the sand dunes of the desert, the team interacted with the Ex-Servicemen and Martyrs’ families along the route, provide latest information on new welfare policies and collect pension related problems of Ex-Servicemen. In addition, the expedition also propagate water harvesting and conservation measures in rural areas of Rajasthan. - Gargi Malik Sinha
40 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016 Delta Force Celeberates 23rd Raising Day
elta Force celebrated its 23rd raising DDay on September 6, 2016. A Wreath Laying Ceremony was organised at Dharmund on the occasion in memory of those who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Raised on September 6, 1994 at Nagrota by Major General Yogeshwar Bahl, the force has been instrumental in fighting terrorism from Ramban, Doda and Kishtwar Districts. Delta Force continues to play a pivotal role in assuring Peace, Security and Development in the region through relentless Counter Terrorist Operations and Sadbhavana endeavours by providing opportunities to the locals. - Lt Col Manish Mehta Appointments
t Gen Surinder Singh assumed command of Western Command. During a solemn Lwreath laying ceremony Gen Surinder laid a wreath and paid homage to the Martyrs of Western Command. Thereafter the western army Commander reviewed a Guard of Honour. He also met the Senior Staff of the Headquarters and took stock of the operational situation. Lt Gen Surinder Singh, GOC-in-C, Western Command was commissioned in 1979 into the Second Battalion, The Brigade of the Guards, an elite Infantry Regiment. In his illustrious career, the General has held prestigious command, staff and instructional posts. He is a graduate of the British Army Command Staff College, Army War College and the National Defence College. He rose in the ranks to command his Battalion and thereafter an Armored Brigade, an Infantry Division and a Mountain Corps.
t Gen DR Soni took over as the 19th General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the LArmy Training Command (ARTRAC). The General was commissioned in the Central India Horse in June 1979. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Pune and the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, he has, in his illustrious career, tenated important command, staff and instructional appointments. The General Officer commanded an Armoured Brigade, an Armoured Division and the Bhatinda Corps. He has attended the Defence College of Management and Technology at Shrivenham, UK and has the distinction of holding a Masters degree in Global Security from Cranfield University, UK. The Army Commander is married to Colonel (Mrs) Suman Soni who is a Gynecologist and served in the Army for 22 years. She has been closely associated with welfare activities and has now assumed the responsibility of the Regional President, Army Wives Welfare Association of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC). Text & pix: Pradip Dasgupta
October 1-15, 2016 Sainik Samachar 41 PHOTOCALL
The author Mahendra Verma, a (retired) senior accounts officer at the office of the Integrated Financial Advisor (Navy), Ministry of Defence presenting a copy of story on Yug Purush - Lal Bahadur Shastri to Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar
The Judicial Committee, headed by Retired Hon'ble Justice L Narasimha Reddy, constituted to examine and make recommendations on the anomalies arising post implementation of One Rank One Pension (OROP), interacted with the Ex-servicemen and Veterans at Air Force Station, Hakimpet, Secunderabad on September 21, 2016. Approximately, 300 Ex-Servicemen of the three services from Telangana region attended the interaction. The issues and points raised by the Ex-servicemen and other stakeholders were taken as inputs by Honorable Justice for consideration while making recommendations.
Rallies were conducted in Northern Command Zone by Director Resettlement Col Rajiv Chauhan. The aims of the rallies were to disseminate DGR schemes in the environment for the retiring persons. The information on planning their second career was explained by way of lectures and interactions with the JCOs & NCOs with respect to the resettlement training, employment scheme and also self employment schemes.
Source: K Ramesh, G Suresh Kumar and Col SD Goswami
42 Sainik Samachar October 1-15, 2016